John Kunkel · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built in your home?

Mortgage Market Update

John Kunkel

John Kunkel

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built in your home?

Hi there. With homeownership comes a simple but powerful wealth-builder: equity. This week I want to help you understand what you've got.

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 Check

How much of your home do you actually own?

If you bought a few years ago, or even just made a solid down payment, you've likely built more equity than you realize. Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. As your balance drops with each payment and home values shift in your market, that gap grows—and it becomes a real financial asset.

Knowing your equity matters because it opens doors. Whether you're thinking about tapping into it for a major expense, refinancing at better terms, or just understanding your net worth, the number deserves your attention. I can help you get a clear picture of where you stand and what options might make sense for your situation.

Let's talk about your equity and what it could mean for you.

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 John Kunkel team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

J

John Kunkel

John Kunkel

john@jkhomeloans.com

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