Josh Deutsch — Josh Deutsch · September 2, 2026

Rate lock: when it's worth it

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Josh Deutsch — Josh Deutsch

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

Rate lock: when it's worth it

Hi there. I've been thinking about one of the most common questions homebuyers ask me—and it's worth getting straight.

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 Timing

When to lock in your rate—and when to wait

Rate timing is one of those questions I hear almost every week, and there's no perfect answer—but there are better strategies. The reality is that rates move based on market forces none of us control, so trying to catch the absolute bottom is a losing game. What matters more is understanding your own timeline and comfort level. If you're closing in the next 30 days, locking in protects you from sudden moves. If you're a few months out, you might have flexibility to watch and decide. The key is knowing your personal break-even point—how much a rate move would actually change your payment, and whether that matters to your situation. I'd love to walk through the right timing strategy for wherever you are in the process.

Let's talk through what makes sense for your timeline and goals.

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 My Mortgage Company team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

My Mortgage Company

Josh Deutsch — Josh Deutsch

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