Thomas Abbate · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Thomas Abbate

Thomas Abbate

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there—this week I want to talk about one of the most valuable assets hiding in your mortgage: equity. Whether you're planning ahead or just curious, it's worth understanding.

National Mortgage Rates · July 30, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.43%

VA 30-Year

6.25%

Rate trend

Source: Freddie Mac PMMS & Optimal Blue via FRED

Rates shown are national averages and are provided for informational purposes only. Actual rates vary based on credit profile, loan amount, and market conditions. Please contact us for a personalized rate quote.


Equity Building

Do you know how much equity you've built?

Every mortgage payment you make builds equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe. Over time, this grows into real wealth. If you bought a few years ago, you may have more equity than you realize, especially if your home's value has appreciated. That equity can unlock options: tapping it for a home improvement loan, using it to refinance into better terms, or leveraging it if you want to buy another property. The tricky part is knowing what you actually have. A quick conversation with me can help you understand your current position and whether your equity opens any doors for you.

Let's pull together the numbers and see what your equity position looks like today.

Tip of the Week

Landscaping maintenance protects your home's value — overgrown yards are the number one curb appeal issue buyers notice.

Tips for Homeowners

HOA Fees and How They Affect Your Mortgage

1.

HOA dues are included in your debt-to-income ratio calculation when you apply for a mortgage. High HOA fees reduce how much home you can qualify for.

2.

Before buying in an HOA, review the financials: reserve fund balance, any pending special assessments, and recent meeting minutes. A depleted reserve fund can mean a large unexpected charge.

3.

HOA dues are generally not tax-deductible for a primary residence. If the home is a rental property, dues may be deductible as a business expense.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Thomas Abbate team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

T

Thomas Abbate

Thomas Abbate

tabbate@petracephas.com

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