Jake Taylor · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Mortgage Market Update

Jake Taylor

Jake Taylor

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Hello! This week I want to talk about something you might not be thinking about—but should be. Your home's equity is quietly growing, and it could open doors you didn't know were there.

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 Reality Check

How much equity are you actually sitting on?

If you bought a few years ago, your home has likely appreciated—but you might not know by how much. That growing equity is one of the most powerful wealth-building tools you have as a homeowner. It can become a down payment on an investment property, funding for a major renovation, or a safety net in an emergency through a home equity line of credit or loan.

The catch: you won't know what you have to work with unless you take a moment to find out. A quick conversation with me can help you understand your current equity position and whether tapping into it makes sense for your situation. No obligation—just clarity.

Let's find out what your home is worth and what options you might have.

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 Jake Taylor team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

J

Jake Taylor

Jake Taylor

jake@barrettfinancial.com

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