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Mortgage Market Update
John Kunkel
John Kunkel
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Does refinancing make sense for you? |
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When rates move, refinancing sounds tempting. But the right decision depends on your personal timeline and goals—not just the numbers on a rate sheet.
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National Mortgage Rates · October 16, 2026
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Conventional 30-Year
7.28%
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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.
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Refinance Strategy
When refinancing makes sense (and when it doesn't)
Refinancing isn't always the right move, even when rates shift. The real question is whether the new loan saves you money over time—accounting for closing costs, how long you plan to stay in the home, and your current loan's age. If you're early in your mortgage, you're building equity slowly; later on, you're building it faster. That timing matters when you're deciding whether to restart the clock with a new loan. I help borrowers run the real math, not just chase a lower rate. Sometimes staying put is the smarter choice. Let's talk through your specific situation—no obligation, just clarity. Reach out if you'd like to explore whether refinancing makes sense for you right now.
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Tip of the Week
Your loan officer can run a credit simulator to show exactly which actions will move your score the most.
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Tips for Homeowners
Year-End Tax & Mortgage Planning
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1.
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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).
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2.
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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.
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3.
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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.
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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 John Kunkel team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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