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Mortgage Market Update
John Kunkel
John Kunkel
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Does refinancing make sense right now? |
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Sometimes the smartest money move is the one you don't make. This week I want to talk about when refinancing is worth it—and when it's not.
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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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Refinancing Basics
When a refi makes sense (and when it doesn't)
Refinancing isn't always the right move, even when rates look appealing. The real question is whether the savings over time outweigh what you'll pay to refinance. Some people break even in a few months; others take years. It depends on your loan balance, how long you plan to stay in your home, and what you're trying to accomplish—lower payments, shorter term, or pulling out equity for repairs or debt payoff. Before you jump, it's worth doing the math. That's where I come in. I can show you whether refinancing actually pencils out for your situation, or if staying put makes more sense right now. Reach out if you'd like me to run the numbers on what a refi could look like for you.
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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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