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Mortgage Market Update
Rhett Laufenburger
Rhett Laufenburger
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
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Fixed vs. ARM: which fits your home plan? |
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Hi there. This week I want to break down one of the most important loan decisions you'll make — and why it matters to you personally.
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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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Loan Program Flexibility
Fixed or adjustable: which loan makes sense for you?
When you're shopping for a mortgage or refinancing an existing one, one of the biggest decisions is whether to lock in a fixed rate for the life of the loan or choose an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). A fixed rate gives you payment stability and peace of mind — you know exactly what you'll pay every month. An ARM often starts lower, which can mean smaller early payments, but it adjusts over time based on market conditions. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay in your home, your comfort with payment uncertainty, and your financial picture. There's no universally "better" option — it comes down to what works for your situation. Let's talk through which structure fits your goals and timeline.
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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.
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Tips for Homeowners
Understanding Mortgage Points
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1.
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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.
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2.
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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.
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3.
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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.
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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 Rhett Laufenburger team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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