Wade Willers · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Wade Willers

Wade Willers

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there. This week I'm thinking about home equity—and how many of my clients are sitting on more of it than they realize.

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

Have you built more equity than you think?

If you've owned your home for a few years, you may have more equity than you realize. Every mortgage payment chips away at what you owe, and if your home's value has moved up, that's equity building too. Knowing your actual equity matters because it can open doors—whether you're thinking about refinancing, taking out a home equity line, or just understanding your net worth. The tricky part is that many homeowners only get a real picture of their equity when they're ready to sell or refinance. I'd encourage you to get a clear number now, even if you're not planning a move. It's one of those things worth knowing, and it might surprise you in a good way.

Let's pull your equity numbers together—reach out and we can walk through what you've built so far.

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 Wade Willers team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

W

Wade Willers

Wade Willers

wade@barrettfinancial.com

You are receiving this from Wade Willers.  Unsubscribe