Barrett Financial · August 20, 2026

Should you refinance? Here's how to tell.

Mortgage Market Update

Barrett Financial

Barrett Financial

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Should you refinance? Here's how to tell.

Rates move, and when they do, homeowners naturally wonder if it's time to refinance. But rate movement alone isn't the full story.

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.


Refinancing Basics

When refinancing makes sense (and when it doesn't)

Refinancing isn't always the right move, even when rates shift. The key is whether your savings over time outweigh the costs and effort of a new loan. It usually makes sense if you plan to stay in your home long enough to recoup those upfront expenses, and if the new loan terms genuinely improve your situation—whether that's a lower rate, a shorter payoff timeline, or access to cash you need. But if you're thinking about selling soon, or if your credit has changed since you bought, it might not pencil out. The best way to know is to run the real numbers with someone who knows your full picture. I'm here to walk through the math and help you decide what's actually worth doing.

If you're wondering whether refinancing could work for you, let's talk through your specific situation.

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 Barrett Financial team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

B

Barrett Financial

Barrett Financial

brianf@barrettfinancial.com

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