Alicia Kirby · September 3, 2026

Your loan program matters more than you think

Mortgage Market Update

Alicia Kirby

Thursday, September 3, 2026

Your loan program matters more than you think

Hi there. Every homeowner's situation is different, and the mortgage product you choose should match your needs, not the other way around.

National Mortgage Rates · August 27, 2026

30-Year Fixed

6.66%

FHA 30-Year

6.56%

VA 30-Year

6.40%

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.


Loan Programs

Not all mortgages work the same way

One of the biggest decisions you'll make isn't just about the rate—it's about which loan program fits your situation. Fixed-rate mortgages lock in your payment for the entire loan term. Adjustable-rate mortgages may start lower but change over time. Government-backed programs like FHA and VA have different rules and benefits than conventional loans. The right choice depends on how long you plan to stay in the home, your comfort with payment changes, and what you qualify for. I've seen borrowers save significantly simply by choosing a program aligned with their actual plans, not just chasing the lowest starting rate. Let's talk about what makes sense for you.

Reach out, and I'll walk you through which programs you might qualify for.

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.

Tips for Homeowners

Jumbo Loans: What They Are and How They Work

1.

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.

2.

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.

3.

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.

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

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