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Mortgage Market Update
Michael Barnhart
Michael Barnhart
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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What kind of loan actually fits your life? |
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Hey, I wanted to touch on something that doesn't get enough attention when you're shopping for a mortgage. The type of loan you choose matters just as much as the rate you get.
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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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Loan Program Fit
Fixed or adjustable? Which loan type matches your plan
One of the biggest choices you'll make isn't about rates—it's about the structure of your loan itself. A fixed-rate mortgage keeps your payment steady for the life of the loan, which works well if you plan to stay put and want predictability. An adjustable-rate mortgage might offer a lower starting rate, but your payment can change after an initial period, which suits someone planning to move or refinance in a few years. The right choice depends on your timeline, risk comfort, and how long you actually plan to own the home. I've seen borrowers choose the wrong structure and regret it, so it's worth thinking through carefully. Let's talk about what makes sense for your situation. Reach out and we can walk through which option aligns with your goals.
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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 Michael Barnhart team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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