Liz Rich — Elizabeth Rich · September 3, 2026

What you'll actually pay to own this home

Mortgage Market Update

My Mortgage Company

Liz Rich — Elizabeth Rich

Thursday, September 3, 2026

What you'll actually pay to own this home

Hi there. This week I want to talk about something that trips up a lot of people—the difference between a mortgage payment and the true cost of homeownership.

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.


Monthly Payment Reality

Your payment is only part of the cost

When you're looking at a loan estimate or thinking about buying, the monthly payment gets all the attention. But I've learned that borrowers who do well are the ones who see the whole picture: property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, maintenance, and utilities all add up fast. Missing these costs is how people end up house-poor. Before you fall in love with a property, run the numbers on everything, not just the mortgage payment. That gives you a real sense of whether a home fits your budget and your life. I'm happy to walk through what to expect so there are no surprises down the road.

Let's talk through your total housing costs—reach out anytime.

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

Liz Rich — Elizabeth Rich

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