Jackson Murphy · September 17, 2026

How rates actually affect what you'll pay

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Jackson Murphy

Thursday, September 17, 2026

How rates actually affect what you'll pay

Hi there, I wanted to share something I've noticed people often overlook when they're thinking about buying or refinancing. It's easy to get caught up in interest rates, but the real number that matters is the one on your monthly statement.

National Mortgage Rates · September 10, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

6.76%

FHA 30-Year

6.82%

VA 30-Year

6.71%

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.


Monthly Payment Math

Why your payment matters more than the rate alone

When rates move, the conversation usually stops at the number itself. But here's what actually hits your budget: your monthly payment. Two borrowers with different loan terms or down payments can have very different payments at the same rate. That's why I always recommend looking at the full picture—your loan amount, your term, and yes, the rate—before deciding what works for your situation. Understanding how these pieces fit together helps you make a decision you'll feel good about for years to come. If you'd like to walk through what a realistic payment might look like for your goals, I'm here to help.

Let's talk through what the numbers mean for your situation.

Tip of the Week

Replace weatherstripping around exterior doors every few years. It's one of the cheapest ways to improve energy efficiency.

Tips for Homeowners

USDA Loans: A Zero-Down Option for Rural Buyers

1.

USDA loans offer 100% financing (no down payment) for eligible properties in USDA-designated rural and suburban areas. The USDA's eligibility map may include areas closer to cities than you'd expect.

2.

USDA loans have income limits — typically 115% of the area median income. Both the property location and borrower income must qualify.

3.

There's an upfront guarantee fee (1% of the loan) and an annual fee (0.35% of the balance). These are lower than FHA mortgage insurance and can be rolled into the loan.

Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the My Mortgage Company team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

My Mortgage Company

Jackson Murphy

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