Alicia Kirby · September 2, 2026

Your loan program matters more than you think

Mortgage Market Update

Alicia Kirby

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Your loan program matters more than you think

Hi there. Every homeowner's situation is different, and the mortgage product you choose should match your needs, not the other way around.

National Mortgage Rates · August 27, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.55%

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.


Loan Programs

Not all mortgages work the same way

One of the biggest decisions you'll make isn't just about the rate—it's about which loan program fits your situation. Fixed-rate mortgages lock in your payment for the entire loan term. Adjustable-rate mortgages may start lower but change over time. Government-backed programs like FHA and VA have different rules and benefits than conventional loans. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay in the home, your comfort with payment changes, and what you qualify for. I've seen borrowers save significantly simply by choosing a program aligned with their actual plans, not just chasing the lowest starting rate. Let's talk about what makes sense for you.

Reach out, and I'll walk you through which programs you might qualify for.

Tip of the Week

Your mortgage interest may be tax-deductible if you itemize. Check with your tax professional to see if it benefits you.

Tips for Homeowners

Understanding Mortgage Points

1.

One mortgage point equals 1% of your loan amount. Paying points ("buying down the rate") reduces your interest rate — typically 0.25% per point, though this varies by lender and market.

2.

Calculate your break-even: divide the cost of the points by your monthly savings. If it takes 4 years to break even and you plan to stay 10 years, buying points makes sense.

3.

Points paid on a home purchase are generally tax-deductible in the year paid (if you itemize). Points on a refinance must be deducted over the life of the loan.

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

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