Scott Orich · November 6, 2026

Debt strategy and your mortgage options

Mortgage Market Update

Scott Orich

Scott Orich

Friday, November 6, 2026

Debt strategy and your mortgage options

Hello, and welcome back. This week I want to tackle something many of you have asked about—how your other debts affect your mortgage picture.

National Mortgage Rates · November 5, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.18%

FHA 30-Year

6.90%

VA 30-Year

6.76%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED · 30-yr: Freddie Mac weekly survey

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.


Paying Down Debt

Your mortgage and your other debts: how they work together

When you're managing a mortgage alongside credit cards, car loans, or student debt, it's easy to feel like you're juggling too many pieces. Here's something that might help: the order in which you pay down different debts can affect both your finances and your ability to borrow in the future. Your mortgage lender looks at your overall debt picture—not just your home loan—when deciding what you qualify for. So if you're thinking about refinancing, buying another property, or simply want to improve your financial health, understanding which debts to prioritize makes a real difference. The conversation often isn't as simple as 'pay the highest rate first,' because your credit score, monthly obligations, and long-term goals all play a role. I'd love to walk through your specific situation and help you think about a strategy that works for you.

Let's talk through your debt picture and what makes sense for your goals.

Tip of the Week

Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the loan amount. Ask your lender for a Loan Estimate so there are no surprises.

Tips for Homeowners

Protecting Yourself from Mortgage Scams

1.

Wire fraud is one of the fastest-growing real estate scams. Never wire closing funds based solely on email instructions — always verify account numbers by calling your title company at a number you look up yourself.

2.

Loan modification and foreclosure rescue scams target homeowners in distress. Legitimate help is available free through HUD-approved counseling agencies at 800-569-4287.

3.

Be wary of unsolicited offers to refinance or cash out equity at terms that sound unusually favorable. If someone contacts you out of the blue, verify their NMLS license number at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

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

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Scott Orich

Scott Orich

scott.orich@onerealmortgage.com

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