Michele de Vahle · September 3, 2026

Why your payment might not change (even if rates do)

Mortgage Market Update

Michele de Vahle

Michele de Vahle

Thursday, September 3, 2026

Why your payment might not change (even if rates do)

Hi there. I wanted to clear up a common point of confusion I hear from clients this week.

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.


Payment Planning

What happens to your mortgage when rates shift

A lot of homeowners ask me how rate changes affect their monthly payment—and the answer depends on what type of loan you have. If you're locked into a fixed rate, your payment stays the same, no matter what happens in the market. That stability is one reason many people choose fixed-rate mortgages. But if you're shopping for a home or thinking about your options, it's worth understanding how rate movements ripple through your affordability. When rates rise, the same home price means a higher monthly payment. When rates fall, your payment pressure eases—though it's not automatic unless you refinance. The key is knowing your own situation so you can make moves that work for your goals, not react to noise.

Let's talk about what your rate environment means for your timeline and budget.

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 Michele de Vahle team any time and we'll walk you through your options.

Your Mortgage Advisor

M

Michele de Vahle

Michele de Vahle

mdevahle@power-lending.com

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