Scott Webster · August 20, 2026

What can your home equity do for you?

Mortgage Market Update

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Thursday, August 20, 2026

What can your home equity do for you?

Hi there — I wanted to share something I talk about often with my clients: the real power of home equity. Here's why it matters right now.

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.


Equity & Refinancing

When your home's value works in your favor

Building equity happens two ways: by paying down your mortgage over time, and when your home appreciates. If you've been in your house for a few years, there's a good chance you have more equity than you realize. That matters because equity can open doors — whether you're thinking about a cash-out refinance to fund a project, consolidate debt, or tap into funds for life's big moments. The stronger your equity position, the more flexibility you typically have with loan options. It's worth knowing where you stand, especially if rates or your financial picture has shifted since you bought.

If you'd like to explore what your equity might mean for your options, I'm here to walk through it with you.

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 Scott Webster team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Scott.Webster@BarrettFinancial.com

You are receiving this from Scott Webster.  Unsubscribe