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Thursday, August 20, 2026 |
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A Note From Ryan Kearns
Most of what's in here is the news everyone's reading. Rates, headlines, the same stories making the rounds.
The headlines are one thing. What they mean for you is another, and that's where I come in.
If something below catches your eye, or nothing has and you're just wondering where you stand, call me. That's what I'm here for.
— Ryan
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Mortgage Market Update
Your loan term is just as important as your rate
Hi there. This week I want to talk about a choice that affects your mortgage for years to come—and it's one many borrowers don't spend enough time thinking about.
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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 Borrowing
Why your loan term matters more than you think
When you're shopping for a mortgage, the interest rate gets all the attention—but your loan term (how long you have to pay it back) shapes your finances just as much. A longer term means lower monthly payments but more interest paid over time. A shorter term costs more each month but builds equity faster and saves you money overall. The right choice depends on your income, your timeline, and what fits your budget without stretching you thin. It's not about picking the "best" term—it's about picking the one that works for your life right now. I'd love to walk you through how different terms would actually look in your situation.
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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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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 Ryan Kearns team any time and we'll walk you through your options.
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3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E Tampa FL 33624
813-540-3319
Kearns Mortgage Team, NMLS #2177472 · Unsubscribe
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