Ken Janes · August 19, 2026

Should you refinance? Here's how to tell.

Mortgage Market Update

Ken Janes

Ken Janes

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Should you refinance? Here's how to tell.

I work with borrowers every week who wonder if refinancing is the right move. It's a smart question to ask.

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.


Refinancing Basics

When refinancing makes sense for you

Refinancing isn't one-size-fits-all, but it's worth considering if your situation has changed since you got your loan. Maybe rates have moved meaningfully lower, or your credit score has improved, or you want to shorten your loan term. Some borrowers refinance to tap into home equity for a major expense. The key is understanding your break-even point — how long you'd need to stay in the home for the refinance to pay for itself. I always recommend running the numbers with someone who knows your full picture before deciding. If you're curious whether refinancing could work for you, let's talk through the specifics.

Reach out anytime if you'd like to explore whether a refi makes sense for your loan.

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 Ken Janes team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

K

Ken Janes

Ken Janes

kenj@barrettfinancial.com

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