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Mortgage Market Update
Ross Osten
Ross Osten
Thursday, August 20, 2026
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Should you refinance right now? |
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Most homeowners wonder at some point whether refinancing makes sense for them. Here's how to think about it clearly.
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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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Refinancing Basics
When refinancing actually makes sense
Refinancing isn't always the right move, even when rates drop or your home gains value. The real question is whether the monthly savings or other benefits justify the costs and time involved in getting a new loan. Sometimes staying put is the smarter choice. I walk through this with clients regularly—we look at how long you plan to stay in the home, what you'd save month to month, and whether you're trying to pull out equity or simply lock in better terms. It's worth a conversation before you assume refinancing is your next step. If you're curious whether refinancing could help your situation, I'd be happy to walk through the numbers with 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 Ross Osten team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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