Josh Deutsch — Josh Deutsch · September 3, 2026

Rate lock: when it's worth it

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Josh Deutsch — Josh Deutsch

Thursday, September 3, 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

6.56%

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.


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

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 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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