Xpert Home Lending LLC · August 20, 2026

Picking the right mortgage program matters

Mortgage Market Update

Tambra Jenkins / Mortgage Queen

Xpert Home Lending LLC

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Picking the right mortgage program matters

A Note From Tambra Jenkins / Mortgage Queen

Rates are moving and so are buyers. If you've been sitting on the sideline, now is the time to get your numbers in order. Reply to this email and let's talk.

Hi there. This week I want to talk about something that often gets overlooked when people compare mortgages.

National Mortgage Rates · August 13, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.67%

FHA 30-Year

6.46%

VA 30-Year

6.36%

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.

Check My Rate →

Loan Programs

Not all mortgages work the same way

When you're shopping for a mortgage or thinking about refinancing, the interest rate gets all the attention—but the loan program itself matters just as much. Different programs have different rules about down payments, credit requirements, how long you have to pay back the loan, and whether your rate stays fixed or adjusts over time. Some programs are built for first-time buyers. Others reward people with substantial equity. Some make sense if you're planning to stay put for decades; others work better if you might move in a few years. The right program for your neighbor might be all wrong for you. That's why I always recommend we talk through your specific situation before you decide—so you understand not just the rate, but the actual structure of what you're borrowing.

Let's discuss which loan program fits your goals and timeline.

Tip of the Week

If your credit score is below 740, even small improvements before applying for a mortgage can save you thousands over the life of the loan.

Tips for Homeowners

Weatherproofing Your Home Before Winter

1.

Clean your chimney if you have a fireplace. The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspection and cleaning to prevent chimney fires.

2.

Check attic insulation and ventilation before winter. Inadequate insulation leads to heat loss, higher energy bills, and ice dams on the roof that can cause significant damage.

3.

Inspect weatherstripping on all exterior doors. A simple dollar-bill test works: close the door on a bill — if you can pull it out easily, your weatherstripping needs replacing.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Tambra Jenkins / Mortgage Queen team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Book a Call

Your Mortgage Advisor

T

Tambra Jenkins / Mortgage Queen

Xpert Home Lending LLC

tambrajenkins@tjmortgagequeen.com

9164104430

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9164104430  |  hhtps://tjmortgagequeen.com

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