Michael Hutchinson · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Mortgage Market Update

Michael Hutchinson

Michael Hutchinson

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Hi there. This week I wanted to touch on something many homeowners overlook: the equity sitting in their home.

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

Your home equity might be worth more than you think

If you've owned your home for a few years, you've likely built up equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. Rising home values in many markets mean your equity could be substantial, even if your loan balance hasn't changed much. This matters because equity can be a financial tool: it opens doors to refinancing options, home equity lines of credit, or cash-out refinancing if you need funds for repairs, education, or other goals. The first step is getting a sense of your home's current value and how much you've paid down. I'm happy to help you explore what options might make sense for your situation.

Reach out anytime—I'd be glad to walk you through your equity position 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 Michael Hutchinson team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

Michael Hutchinson

Michael Hutchinson

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