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Mortgage Market Update
Chris George
Chris George
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
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Property tax breaks for seniors and why builders are tightening up |
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This week we're looking at some real money moves that could affect your wallet — from potential tax relief to what's happening in the construction market. Here's what homeowners need to know.
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National Mortgage Rates · August 13, 2026
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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.
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Smart Money
Why your monthly payment might change
If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage or a loan with a rate adjustment coming up, it's worth understanding what happens when rates move. Your payment can shift based on market conditions and the terms of your loan. Even if you have a fixed rate, knowing how payment changes work helps you plan your budget confidently. The good news: if you're concerned about payment uncertainty, we can talk through your options—whether that's locking in a fixed rate, refinancing, or simply preparing for what's ahead. I'd rather you feel informed and in control.
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Tip of the Week
Inspect your attic insulation. Proper insulation reduces heating and cooling costs and can prevent ice dams on your roof.
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Tips for Homeowners
Fall Home Prep: Heating, Safety & Systems
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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.
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2.
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Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. Carbon monoxide poisoning risk rises when heating systems run more frequently.
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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.
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HousingWire
Several states including Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Florida are putting property tax changes on the ballot this November. If you're a senior homeowner or planning ahead for retirement, these ballot measures could meaningfully reduce your annual tax burden depending on where you live.
| Key takeaway: check your state ballot this fall — property tax relief, if approved, could free up hundreds or thousands in annual housing costs for older homeowners. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
Construction loans are getting more expensive, with effective interest rates hitting 12.59% as builders manage risk more carefully during tighter budget cycles. This squeeze on builders typically translates to slower new construction and potentially fewer homes available on the market in coming months.
| Key takeaway: fewer new homes being built right now could mean less housing inventory and less price pressure — which may matter if you're thinking about buying or selling soon. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
Builders have actually been working hard to add supply through builder buydowns and other incentives, which challenges the narrative that we're simply running out of homes. Understanding what's really happening with supply helps explain why you're seeing the mortgage market conditions you are.
| Key takeaway: supply isn't as constrained as headlines suggest, which is useful context as you think about timing your own buy or sell decision. |
Read full article →
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HousingWire
While some multifamily properties are struggling, data shows the problem is limited — distressed debt represents about 5.7% of all apartment building loans outstanding. This matters because a stable rental market generally means fewer forced foreclosures and more predictable housing costs across the country.
| Key takeaway: the multifamily sector's troubles are real but localized, so broader housing market stability isn't in jeopardy from this issue. |
Read full article →
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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 Chris George team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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2701 E Insight Way, Suite 150, Chandler, AZ, 85286
615-422-4705 | https://www.cgmtgteam.com
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