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Mortgage Market Update
Denise Marquez
Denise Marquez
Thursday, September 3, 2026
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Renovation regrets and HOA surprises |
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We've got some important home-ownership lessons this week—from planning renovations the right way to understanding what can happen with HOA fees. Here are the stories that matter most to your wallet.
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National Mortgage Rates · August 27, 2026
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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.
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Payment Planning
Why your mortgage payment might change (and when)
One question I hear often: 'Will my payment stay the same?' The answer depends on what kind of loan you have. If you've locked in a fixed-rate mortgage, your principal and interest payment won't budge for the life of the loan—that's the security of fixed-rate borrowing. But other costs tied to your mortgage can shift. Property taxes may increase, homeowners insurance premiums adjust, and if you're in escrow, those changes flow into your monthly payment. Understanding what's fixed and what can move helps you budget with confidence and spot changes before they happen.
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Tip of the Week
Schedule a plumber to inspect older homes for slow leaks — water damage is expensive and often hidden until it's serious.
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Tips for Homeowners
Jumbo Loans: What They Are and How They Work
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1.
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A jumbo loan exceeds the conforming loan limit set by the FHFA — $766,550 in most areas for 2024, higher in designated high-cost markets. These loans can't be sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.
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2.
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Jumbo loans typically require stronger credit (often 700+), larger down payments (10–20%), and more cash reserves. Underwriting is more thorough and can take longer.
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3.
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Rates on jumbo loans are sometimes comparable to or even lower than conforming rates, depending on market conditions. Don't assume a jumbo loan means a worse deal — shop lenders.
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Realtor.com
The biggest renovation mistakes aren't made during construction—they happen before a hammer swings. Having the right conversations with your contractor upfront can save you thousands of dollars in unexpected costs and changes later on.
| Key takeaway: Get detailed plans and have thorough discussions with your contractor before signing anything to avoid costly mid-project surprises. |
Read full article →
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Realtor.com
Homeowners in a California condo community faced a shock when their HOA board assessed a $26,000 emergency fee—and now they're questioning whether it was even legal. It's a reminder that even after you buy, unexpected fees can arrive in the mail.
| Key takeaway: If you own a condo, understand your HOA's reserve policies and know your rights if an emergency assessment seems unreasonable. |
Read full article →
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Realtor.com
A San Francisco renter lost $18,000 to an elaborate rental fraud scheme, and scammers are getting better at fooling people. As more people search for rentals online, these cons are becoming harder to spot.
| Key takeaway: Never wire money or pay deposits before seeing a property in person and verifying the landlord's identity through official channels. |
Read full article →
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Realtor.com
Parents are willing to pay a premium for homes close enough to walk their kids to school, reflecting a real priority in family buying decisions. Location isn't just about commute—it's about daily life and what families actually need.
| Key takeaway: If you're a parent shopping for a home, proximity to schools can be worth the extra cost and should factor into your budget. |
Read full article →
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Have questions about how any of this affects your mortgage or home purchase? We're here to help — reach out to the Denise Marquez team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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808 RT 15 S, Lake Hopatcong, NJ 07849
201-456-7475 | https://www.dm-mtg.com/
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