Clemens Mortgage Group, LLC · September 2, 2026

Your rate depends on more than you think

Mortgage Market Update

Jennifer Clemens

Clemens Mortgage Group, LLC

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Your rate depends on more than you think

A Note From Jennifer Clemens

Happy Friday! 😎

Mortgage rates saw some pressure this week as markets reacted to ongoing global tensions and economic uncertainty. This afternoon, bond markets sold off after the Trump/Xi summit wrapped up with little progress toward easing concerns overseas, pushing Treasury yields to their highest levels since May 2025.

Temporary rate buy-downs continue to be a hot topic and help buyer's ease into their mortgage payment. Seller concessions, rate buy downs, bridge loans and strategy conversations can make a huge difference.

Also - We can now offer VantageScore options on certain loan programs in addition to traditional FICO scoring. This could be a game changer for some buyers and may even help save deals that previously may not have qualified. 🙌

If you need help running numbers or navigating a tricky scenario, I’m always just a text away!

Rates are moving, but they're not moving the same way for everyone. Here's why.

National Mortgage Rates · August 27, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.55%

VA 30-Year

6.38%

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.

Check My Rate →

Rate Movement

Why your neighbor's rate isn't your rate

I talk to borrowers all the time who heard what their friend or coworker got approved for and assume that's what they'll get too. The truth is, interest rates aren't one-size-fits-all. Your credit profile, down payment, loan type, property type, and even your debt-to-income ratio all play a role in the rate you're offered. Two people applying on the same day can walk away with different numbers—and that's normal. The good news? Understanding what influences your own rate is the first step to making a smart borrowing decision. If you're curious what factors might affect your specific situation, I'd love to walk through it with you.

Let's talk about what rate environment makes sense for where you are right now.

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 Jennifer Clemens team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

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Jennifer Clemens

Jennifer Clemens

Clemens Mortgage Group, LLC

jennifer@clemensmortgagegroup.com

602-214-9048

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602-214-9048  |  https://clemensmortgagegroup.com/

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