Mortgage Market Update

Brandy Harris

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Does refinancing pencil out for you?

Hi there. This week I want to cover a question that comes up more often as the mortgage landscape shifts.

National Mortgage Rates · August 13, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.67%

FHA 30-Year

6.46%

VA 30-Year

6.36%

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.

Smart Refinancing

When refinancing actually makes sense

I talk to homeowners all the time who wonder if they should refinance, and the answer depends on your situation. If rates have moved significantly lower than your current loan, or if your credit score has improved, refinancing might save you money over time. But it's not automatic—you'll want to think through how long you plan to stay in your home and whether the savings justify the costs involved.

The math works best when you have a clear goal: lower your monthly payment, shorten your loan term, or switch from an adjustable to a fixed rate. If you're curious whether refinancing could work for you, I'm happy to walk through your options with no pressure.

Let's talk about whether a refinance makes sense for your home.

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 Brandy Harris team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

Brandy Harris

brandy@a-zlending.com

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