Thomas Abbate · October 20, 2026

What equity in your home can actually do

Mortgage Market Update

Thomas Abbate

Thomas Abbate

Tuesday, October 20, 2026

What equity in your home can actually do

One of the best parts of homeownership is building wealth without thinking about it. Here's what you need to know about tapping into that value when it makes sense.

National Mortgage Rates · October 16, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.28%

FHA 30-Year

7.13%

VA 30-Year

6.93%

Rate trend

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.


Equity & Options

What your home's value means for your finances

If you've owned your home for a while, you likely have equity built up—the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. That equity can be a financial tool. Some people tap into it through refinancing or a home equity line of credit when they need cash for repairs, education, or other goals. Others simply let it grow as part of their long-term wealth. The key is understanding what you have and what options might make sense for your situation. Your home is probably your biggest asset, and it's worth knowing how to use it wisely. I'd be happy to walk through what equity means for you and whether any options are worth exploring right now.

Let's talk about what your home equity could mean for your next move.

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 Thomas Abbate team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

T

Thomas Abbate

Thomas Abbate

tabbate@petracephas.com

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