Ron Gardiner · September 17, 2026

When rates shift, your budget does too

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Ron Gardiner

Thursday, September 17, 2026

When rates shift, your budget does too

Hi there. One of the most common questions I hear is whether now is a good time to buy or refinance. The honest answer depends on where rates are and where they're heading.

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.


Affordability Check

What changes when rates move

Interest rates are always in motion, and even a small shift can reshape what you can afford. When rates go up, your monthly payment climbs on the same loan amount. When rates drop, that payment shrinks—sometimes noticeably. This matters whether you're shopping for your first home, thinking about upgrading, or wondering if now is the right time to make a move. The good news is you don't have to guess. We can show you exactly how rate changes affect your specific situation, and help you understand what a realistic budget looks like for you today.

Let's talk about what you can afford in today's rate environment.

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

Ron Gardiner

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