Brennen Clouse · September 11, 2026

How much equity have you built?

Mortgage Market Update

Brennen Clouse

Brennen Clouse

Friday, September 11, 2026

How much equity have you built?

September is a good time to take stock of where you stand as a homeowner. This week, I want to talk about something many people wonder about but don't always act on.

National Mortgage Rates · September 10, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

6.76%

FHA 30-Year

6.67%

VA 30-Year

6.46%

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.


Equity Awareness

Do you know how much equity you have?

If you've owned your home for a few years, you've likely built up equity—the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. That equity can be a valuable tool. Some homeowners tap into it through a cash-out refinance or a home equity line of credit to fund renovations, consolidate debt, or handle major expenses. Others simply want to know the number for peace of mind. The best first step is a straightforward conversation. I can help you understand your current position, what options might make sense for your situation, and whether taking action now serves your goals.

If you'd like to explore your equity and what it could mean for you, I'm here to walk through it together.

Tip of the Week

Gift funds from family can be used toward a down payment on most loan types — your lender will need a simple gift letter.

Tips for Homeowners

VA Loans: Benefits Every Veteran Should Know

1.

VA loans require no down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI), making them one of the most powerful home-buying tools available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses.

2.

VA loans do require a funding fee (typically 1.25%–3.3% of the loan amount), which can be rolled into the loan. Veterans with a service-connected disability rating may be exempt from this fee.

3.

There's no VA loan limit for eligible borrowers with full entitlement — you can finance as much as a lender will approve. If you've had a prior VA loan, partial entitlement rules may apply.

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

Your Mortgage Advisor

B

Brennen Clouse

Brennen Clouse

brennen.clouse@onerealmortgage.com

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