Valerie Goertz · August 20, 2026

How much equity are you building each month?

Mortgage Market Update

Valerie Goertz

Valerie Goertz

Thursday, August 20, 2026

How much equity are you building each month?

Hi there. This week I want to focus on something that often flies under the radar but quietly builds your net worth: home equity.

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. That's the gap between what your house is worth and what you still owe—and it's real money you own. Over time, as you pay down your loan and (typically) your home appreciates, that equity grows. Many homeowners are surprised to learn how much they've built up, especially if they've been in their home for several years.

Why does this matter? Equity can be a financial tool when you need it. Some borrowers tap into it for home improvements, education, or consolidating debt through a cash-out refinance or a home equity loan. Others simply feel good knowing they're building wealth with every payment. Either way, understanding your equity position is smart money management. I'd be happy to run a quick assessment of your home's current value and see what options might make sense for your situation.

Let's talk about how much equity you've built and what it means for your financial picture.

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 Valerie Goertz team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

V

Valerie Goertz

Valerie Goertz

valerie@whitecapdelmarva.com

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