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Mortgage Market Update
Harris Nightingale
Harris Nightingale
Thursday, August 20, 2026
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What rate changes mean for you |
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This week I wanted to walk you through something that comes up a lot in my conversations with clients—and tends to cause more confusion than it should.
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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
What happens to your payment when rates move
A lot of people ask me what they should do when they hear rates have shifted. Here's the thing: if you're already locked into a mortgage, your payment stays exactly the same—rate changes don't touch it. But if you're thinking about refinancing or buying soon, rate movement absolutely matters. Even a small shift changes what you can afford monthly and what loan size makes sense for your situation. That's why it's worth understanding how rates work and what your options really are right now. If you'd like to talk through how current conditions might affect your goals, I'm here.
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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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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Harris Nightingale team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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