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Saturday, August 1, 2026 |
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Mortgage Market Update
How much equity have you built?
Hello—this week I want to help you see the progress you've made as a homeowner. It often flies under the radar, but it's one of the best reasons to own.
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National Mortgage Rates · July 30, 2026
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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.
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Equity Check
You might have more equity than you think
If you've owned your home for a few years, you've likely built more equity than you realize. Every mortgage payment chips away at what you owe, and if your home has appreciated even a little, that's equity working for you too. Knowing your equity matters because it opens doors—to refinancing options, home improvement loans, or even a future move. The problem is most homeowners have only a rough guess. I'd encourage you to take ten minutes this week to pull your latest statement or check your county assessor's site for a current home value estimate. Then subtract what you still owe on your mortgage. That number is real wealth you've built, and it's worth understanding. If you'd like help calculating your equity or exploring what options it might unlock for you, let me know.
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Tip of the Week
Landscaping maintenance protects your home's value — overgrown yards are the number one curb appeal issue buyers notice.
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Tips for Homeowners
HOA Fees and How They Affect Your Mortgage
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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.
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2.
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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.
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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.
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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Melanie Hadley Lending Team team any time and we'll walk you through your options.
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(512) 799-8117
Melanie Hadley Lending Team · Unsubscribe
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