Troy Shuler · August 20, 2026

What you've already built in equity

Mortgage Market Update

Troy Shuler

Troy Shuler

Thursday, August 20, 2026

What you've already built in equity

Hello, and welcome back. This week we're looking at one of the most underrated benefits of homeownership—the steady growth of your own wealth.

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 Building

Your home is working for you—here's how

Every mortgage payment you make builds equity in your home. As you pay down principal, you own more of the property outright. That equity can become a valuable tool later—whether you want to tap it for a major expense, consolidate debt, or refinance under better terms. The sooner you start, the more time your equity has to grow. If you've owned your home for a few years, you may have more equity than you realize. Understanding what you've built helps you make smarter decisions about your home's future. Let's talk about your situation and what options might make sense for you.

Reach out if you'd like to discuss your equity and what it might mean for your goals.

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 Troy Shuler team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

T

Troy Shuler

Troy Shuler

troy.shuler@onerealmortgage.com

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