Mortgage Market Update

Aaron Perkins

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Fixed or adjustable: which fits your plan

One choice shapes your entire loan. Here's what to consider when deciding between a fixed rate and an adjustable one.

National Mortgage Rates · October 16, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.28%

FHA 30-Year

7.13%

VA 30-Year

6.93%

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED

Rates shown are national mortgage index rates 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.

Fixed vs. Adjustable

Why your loan type matters more than you think

When you're getting a mortgage, one of the earliest choices you'll make is whether to lock in a fixed rate or start with an adjustable one. A fixed rate stays the same for the life of your loan—predictable, steady, easy to budget around. An adjustable rate may start lower, but it can change over time, which means your payment could go up or down depending on market conditions. Neither is automatically 'right'—it depends on your timeline, risk comfort, and plans for the home. If you're planning to stay put for years, a fixed rate gives you peace of mind. If you think you might move or refinance sooner, an adjustable option might make sense. The best choice is the one that fits your actual situation, not just the rate number you see today.

Let's talk through which structure makes sense for your goals.

Tip of the Week

Your loan officer can run a credit simulator to show exactly which actions will move your score the most.

Tips for Homeowners

Year-End Tax & Mortgage Planning

1.	Consider making your January mortgage payment in December to get an extra month of deductible interest in the current tax year (consult your tax advisor first).

2.	If you plan to sell next year, now is a good time to document improvements — receipts and records add to your cost basis and reduce taxable capital gain at sale.

3.	Review your W-4 withholding if you bought a home this year — your mortgage interest deduction may mean you're having too much withheld from each paycheck.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Aaron Perkins team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

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