Steven Cooper · September 2, 2026

The easiest way to build equity faster

Mortgage Market Update

Steven Cooper

Steven Cooper

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

The easiest way to build equity faster

Hi there — I wanted to share something simple that can make a real difference in your homeownership journey.

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.


Smart Money

Why paying extra on your mortgage matters

One of the most powerful things you can do as a homeowner is put extra money toward your principal when you can — even small amounts add up over time. Every dollar you pay above your regular payment goes directly to reducing what you owe, which means less interest paid overall and a faster path to owning your home free and clear. The beauty is that you stay flexible: you only do it when cash flow allows, and it genuinely changes the math of your loan. I've seen borrowers who commit to an extra payment or two per year shave years off their mortgage and save tens of thousands in interest. If you're curious about how a strategy like this would work with your specific loan, I'd love to walk you through the numbers.

Let's talk about whether an accelerated payoff plan makes sense for your situation.

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 Steven Cooper team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Signature

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Steven Cooper

Steven Cooper

steven@artemismtg.com

480-720-4857

1166 E Warner Rd, Suite 101P Gilbert, AZ 85296

480-720-4857  |  https://artemismtg.com/

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