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Mortgage Market Update
Michael Radcliffe
The Rad CRM
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
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One number lenders care about most |
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Hi there. This week I want to walk you through something that shows up in every mortgage conversation, but a lot of borrowers don't realize they can improve it.
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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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Smart Money
The one number that changes everything
Your debt-to-income ratio — the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward debt payments — is one of the biggest factors lenders look at when you apply for a mortgage. It's also something you can actually control. By paying down existing debts before you buy or refinance, you improve your ratio, which can mean access to better loan terms and programs. Even small wins matter: paying off a car loan or credit card can make a real difference in what you qualify for. If you're thinking about your next move with a home, it's worth taking a hard look at this number now. Let's talk about where your debt-to-income ratio stands and what it might mean for your options.
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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 Michael Radcliffe team any time and we'll walk you through your options. |
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