Christopher Robert Austin · August 20, 2026

Do you know what equity you have?

Mortgage Market Update

Christopher Austin

Christopher Robert Austin

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Do you know what equity you have?

Hi there—this week I want to talk about something a lot of homeowners sit on without really thinking about: the equity they've already built.

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 Talk

What your home's equity can actually do for you

If you've been in your home a few years, or bought when prices were lower, you likely have equity built up. That's real financial flexibility—but it only works if you know your options. Some of you might benefit from tapping that equity for home improvements, debt consolidation, or life goals. Others might be better off leaving it alone. The right move depends entirely on your situation: your timeline, your goals, how stable your income is, and what rates look like when you're ready to act.

I talk to homeowners all the time who don't realize what's possible, or who move too fast without thinking it through. Let's sit down and look at the real numbers for your home and see what makes sense. No pressure—just clarity.

Reach out if you'd like to talk through whether your equity is working for 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 Christopher Austin team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

C

Christopher Austin

Christopher Robert Austin

chris.austin@onerealmortgage.com

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