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Mortgage Market Update
Tosh Dickenson
Tosh Dickenson
Thursday, September 17, 2026
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How much equity have you actually built? |
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Rising home values may have quietly grown your equity. Here's why that matters and how to put it to work.
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National Mortgage Rates · September 10, 2026
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Conventional 30-Year
6.76%
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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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Home Equity
You May Have More Home Equity Than You Think
Home values in most areas have climbed over the past few years, and that means many homeowners are sitting on more equity than they realize. Equity is simply the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe — and it's one of the most useful financial tools you have. You can tap it to consolidate higher-interest debt, fund a renovation, or cover a big expense, often at a much lower rate than a credit card or personal loan. The first step is knowing your number. A quick review of your current balance and an updated value estimate tells us how much you have to work with and what options make sense. No pressure — just a clear picture of where you stand. Curious how much equity you've built? I'll put together a quick estimate for you.
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Tip of the Week
Replace weatherstripping around exterior doors every few years. It's one of the cheapest ways to improve energy efficiency.
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Tips for Homeowners
USDA Loans: A Zero-Down Option for Rural Buyers
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1.
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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.
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2.
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USDA loans have income limits — typically 115% of the area median income. Both the property location and borrower income must qualify.
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3.
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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.
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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 Tosh Dickenson team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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