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Mortgage Market Update
Amy Velsh
Amy Velsh
Thursday, August 20, 2026
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Do you know how much equity you have? |
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Every mortgage payment you make builds your ownership stake in your home. This week, I want to help you think about what that means for your financial picture.
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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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Home Equity
Your home has likely built equity. Here's why that matters.
If you've owned your home for a few years and made regular payments, you probably have equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on the loan. That equity is real wealth, and it can work for you in a few ways. Some people use it to fund home repairs or improvements. Others tap it when they need cash for life events. The key is understanding your options and whether accessing that equity makes sense for your situation right now. If you're curious about how much equity you might have or what borrowing against it could look like, I'd be happy to walk through the numbers with you. Let's talk about whether your home equity is an opportunity for you.
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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 Amy Velsh team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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