Scott Webster · August 19, 2026

What can your home equity do for you?

Mortgage Market Update

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

What can your home equity do for you?

Hi there — I wanted to share something I talk about often with my clients: the real power of home equity. Here's why it matters right now.

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 & Refinancing

When your home's value works in your favor

Building equity happens two ways: by paying down your mortgage over time, and when your home appreciates. If you've been in your house for a few years, there's a good chance you have more equity than you realize. That matters because equity can open doors — whether you're thinking about a cash-out refinance to fund a project, consolidate debt, or tap into funds for life's big moments. The stronger your equity position, the more flexibility you typically have with loan options. It's worth knowing where you stand, especially if rates or your financial picture has shifted since you bought.

If you'd like to explore what your equity might mean for your options, I'm here to walk through it with 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 Scott Webster team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Scott Webster

Scott Webster

Scott.Webster@BarrettFinancial.com

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