Denise Abarca · August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Mortgage Market Update

Denise Abarca

Denise Abarca

Saturday, August 1, 2026

How much equity have you actually built?

Hey there—hope things are going well. This week I want to talk about something a lot of homeowners overlook until they need it.

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

Do you know how much equity you've built?

If you've owned your home for a few years, you're likely sitting on more equity than you realize. Every mortgage payment builds it—and so does home appreciation. That equity is real money you own, and it can open doors: a cash-out refinance to fund renovations or pay off debt, a home equity line of credit for flexibility, or just the peace of mind knowing your net worth is growing. The tricky part is figuring out your exact number without guessing. I can pull a quick valuation and show you where you stand. It's easy and free, and it might surprise you.

Reach out and let's take a look at your equity position—no obligation.

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 Denise Abarca team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

D

Denise Abarca

Denise Abarca

dabarca@barrettfinancial.com

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