John Kean · August 19, 2026

Your home equity: a tool you might be overlooking

Mortgage Market Update

John Kean

John Kean

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Your home equity: a tool you might be overlooking

Home equity is one of your greatest financial assets as a homeowner. This week, I want to show you how to think about using it strategically.

National Mortgage Rates · August 13, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.67%

FHA 30-Year

6.47%

VA 30-Year

6.33%

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 Strategy

Why tapping your equity might make sense now

If you've been in your home for a few years, you've likely built up equity—that's the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. Some homeowners sit on that equity without realizing they can put it to work. A cash-out refinance or home equity line of credit lets you borrow against what you've built, which can help fund home improvements, consolidate debt, or handle a major expense. The key is understanding whether borrowing against your equity makes financial sense for your situation. Rates and terms matter, and so does your plan for the money. I'd love to walk you through the options and help you decide if this is the right move for you.

Let's talk about whether your equity could work harder for you.

Tip of the Week

Inspect your attic insulation. Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs and can prevent ice dams on your roof.

Tips for Homeowners

Fall Home Prep: Heating, Safety & Systems

1.

Have your heating system serviced before it's needed. A furnace failure in winter is an emergency — routine maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs.

2.

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. Carbon monoxide poisoning risk rises when heating systems run more frequently.

3.

Drain and shut off exterior faucets and sprinkler systems before the first freeze to prevent burst pipes — one of the most expensive and disruptive homeowner emergencies.

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

Your Mortgage Advisor

J

John Kean

John Kean

john@keanhomeloans.com

You are receiving this from John Kean.  Unsubscribe