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Mortgage Market Update
Chris George
Chris George
Thursday, August 20, 2026
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What your home equity is really worth right now |
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We're seeing some real momentum in how lenders are handling home equity—and it could mean faster cash access for you. Here are the stories that matter to your wallet this week.
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National Mortgage Rates · August 13, 2026
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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.
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Smart Money
Why your monthly payment might change
If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage or a loan with a rate adjustment coming up, it's worth understanding what happens when rates move. Your payment can shift based on market conditions and the terms of your loan. Even if you have a fixed rate, knowing how payment changes work helps you plan your budget confidently. The good news: if you're concerned about payment uncertainty, we can talk through your options—whether that's locking in a fixed rate, refinancing, or simply preparing for what's ahead. I'd rather you feel informed and in control.
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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.
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Tips for Homeowners
Weatherproofing Your Home Before Winter
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1.
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Clean your chimney if you have a fireplace. The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual inspection and cleaning to prevent chimney fires.
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2.
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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.
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3.
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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.
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HousingWire
More lenders are now offering accelerated closing and funding for home equity loans and lines of credit. About one-third of major lenders now have this option available, which is a jump from the year before, meaning you could get your cash sooner if you need to tap into your home's value.
| Key takeaway: if you're considering a home equity loan, shop around—lenders are competing on speed, not just rates. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
A federal court has affirmed the settlement in the major realtor commission lawsuit that's been reshaping how agent commissions work. The approval is now locked in, meaning the changes to commission practices that agents and buyers have been adapting to will continue.
| Key takeaway: the new commission landscape is here to stay, so understand how it affects your agent costs when you buy or sell. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
KB Home's leadership is focused on dominating specific local markets rather than spreading thin nationally. This strategy means builders are customizing homes and amenities to match what buyers actually want in each area, which could give you better options tailored to your region.
| Key takeaway: builders competing hard for your local market often means better selection and pricing for new construction buyers. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
A new analysis shows that referral rates, repeat clients, and strong local reputation are better predictors of an agent's long-term success than production numbers alone. This matters because an agent with these qualities is more likely to stick around, know your neighborhood deeply, and prioritize relationships over quick commissions.
| Key takeaway: when interviewing agents, ask about their repeat and referral business—it's a sign they actually deliver results. |
Read full article →
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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Chris George team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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2701 E Insight Way, Suite 150, Chandler, AZ, 85286
615-422-4705 | https://www.cgmtgteam.com
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