Shannon Palmer · November 3, 2026

Your down payment matters more than you think

Mortgage Market Update

Shannon Palmer

Shannon Palmer

Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Your down payment matters more than you think

Hi there. One question I hear a lot is whether someone has 'enough' saved to buy. The real answer is more interesting than a yes or no.

National Mortgage Rates · November 2, 2026

Conventional 30-Year

7.13%

FHA 30-Year

6.96%

VA 30-Year

6.76%

Rate trend

Source: Optimal Blue daily mortgage indices via FRED

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.


Loan Programs

What your down payment actually unlocks

Your down payment isn't just a number on a closing statement—it shapes your entire loan. The amount you put down affects your interest rate, your monthly payment, whether you'll need mortgage insurance, and even which loan programs become available to you. A larger down payment can mean better terms. A smaller one might open doors you didn't know existed, like programs designed specifically for buyers with less saved. Understanding how your down payment works for you—not against you—is one of the smartest moves you can make before you apply. I'd love to walk you through what's actually possible with what you have right now.

Let's talk about how your down payment can work in your favor.

Tip of the Week

Refinancing resets your amortization clock. If you're 10 years into a 30-year loan, consider a shorter term to avoid paying more total interest.

Tips for Homeowners

Co-Signing a Mortgage: What You're Really Agreeing To

1.

Co-signing makes you equally responsible for the debt. If the primary borrower misses payments, your credit score takes the same hit and the lender can pursue you for the full balance.

2.

The co-signed mortgage debt appears on your credit report and counts toward your DTI. This can limit your ability to qualify for your own financing until the loan is paid off or refinanced out of your name.

3.

There's no automatic way to remove yourself as a co-signer — the primary borrower must refinance the loan in their name alone. Get this understanding in writing before you sign.

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

Your Mortgage Advisor

S

Shannon Palmer

Shannon Palmer

shannon@evolvecl.com

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