JL Lending Team · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Justin Leach

JL Lending Team

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hi there. This week I wanted to focus on something many homeowners overlook: the wealth you're quietly building in your 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 may be worth more than you think

If you've owned your home for a few years, you've likely built equity through your monthly payments—and possibly through appreciation in your neighborhood. That equity can be a powerful financial tool. Some people use it to fund home improvements, consolidate debt, or access cash for life events. Others tap it through a refinance or home equity line of credit when the timing makes sense. The first step is knowing what you actually have. I'd encourage you to get a current estimate of your home's value and subtract what you still owe on your mortgage. That number is yours to work with whenever you need it. If you're curious about your equity position or what options might be available, I'm here to walk through it with you—no pressure, just information.

Let me know if you'd like a quick conversation about your home's current value and what equity means for your situation.

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 Justin Leach team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

J

Justin Leach

JL Lending Team

justin@jllendingteam.com

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