Why should you refinance?

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  • Move to a Shorter Term

    Moving from a 30 Year Fixed to a 15 Year Fixed could be one of the best financial decisions. Even if you have a rate which is below the current market rates, moving to a 15 Year Fixed can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. However, you should qualify and should be comfortable with a higher payment.

  • Move to a Longer Term

    Sometimes, it’s the other way around. You got into a short-term mortgage to save on interest cost. But because of changed circumstances, you cannot service the steep payments. In that case moving from a 15 Year Fixed to a longer term like 20, 25 or 30 Year mortgage may be a better idea. You will save on your monthly payment and get the breathing room that you are looking for. Note that by refinancing your current mortgage, finance charges may be higher over the life of the new loan.

  • Move From ARM to FRM

    If you have had an Adjustable Rate Mortgage and are getting worried about the future rise in rates, moving to a Fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) may be a good idea. This is recommended if you plan to keep the mortgage for a very long time. Since the FRM rate are at a very low level, locking in a low fixed rate for the life of the loan gives you the peace of mind.

  • Move From ARM to ARM

    If your ARM loan is nearing the adjustment period and you are not planning to keep the loan for a long time, moving into another ARM will save you on interest cost. With 5 and 7 Year ARM pricing at least 1% lower than the fixed rate, it makes sense to save on monthly payment and interest cost by moving to an ARM from another ARM.

  • Eliminate Mortgage Insurance (MI or PMI) Premium

    May be your home prices have gone up or you have paid down enough on your principal or it’s a combination of both.You may now have 20% equity in the house or you can bring in some cash to do that, then– it’s time to get rid of the pesky mortgage insurance.

  • Get a Cash-out Mortgage

    If you have big expenses or major purchases, doing a cash-out refinance may be a great idea. You will however need lot of equity and cash-out refinance will have a rate higher than a regular refinance, but it may still be a much less expensive than borrowing from some where else or breaking into your retirement nest.

  • Get a Lower Rate

    If you had bad credit when you got the loan or have a higher rate, and you are thinking should I refinance now!  yes  refinancing will help you lower the rate.

Check out our helpful guide, How to Shop Mortgage Rates Like a Pro

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How to Shop Mortgage Rates Like a Pro

Refinance FAQ

Why should I refinance?

A mortgage is generally the largest debt most homeowners have to manage. It’s a good idea to give your personal real estate finance portfolio a check-up at least once a year. Since there are many reasons a homeowner may choose to refinance, we’ll take a look at the four most common. Read More…

How do I calculate the net benefit of a refinance?

We are going to focus on the net benefits of refinancing from the standpoint of lowering your interest rate. Although there are several reasons to refinance, lowering your mortgage rate to save on interest payments over the term of the loan is the most popular. Read More…

Q: Why can’t I just compare my current payment to the proposed payment and figure out my net benefit?

You could just compare the two payments if you wanted to find out your cash flow savings, but the current and proposed loans may have two different amortizations. Let’s say you have a 15 year mortgage currently and you are comparing to a 30 year mortgage.

If everything else is the same (interest rate, loan amount, etc) except for the amortization your interest savings per month would be $0 but, you are going to show a cash flow savings because of the longer amortization

If I need to do home improvements, should I refinance or get a HELOC?

There are three variables to consider when answering this question:

1. Timeline
2. Costs or Fees to obtain the loan
3. Interest Rate

1. Timeline –

This is a key factor to look at first, and arguably the most important. Before you look at the interest rates, you need to consider your time line or the length of time you’ll be keeping your home. This will determine how long of a period you’ll need in order to pay back the borrowed money. Read More..

Is there such a thing as “no cost” mortgage?

Technically speaking, there are always costs involved with any mortgage transactions. Appraisal, inspection, underwriting, prepaid taxes, insurance, interest…. the list can go on.
However, there is a way to structure a closing cost and interest rate scenario that will decrease the amount of fees, or how a borrower pays them.
Basically, the costs to produce the new mortgage are either financed into the loan amount, or covered by the lender in exchange for a slightly higher than market interest rate.
Deciding on the best option involves weighing the difference in cost up-front vs the increased monthly payment over a set period of time.

How long do I need to wait for refinance after buying a home?

The rule-of-thumb is 8-12 months, but there may be exceptions. It’s important to check with your lender at the time of initial application to make sure there aren’t any short-term penalties for refinancing within the first year.

Another thing to consider is the cost of refinancing. If you’re watching the market and want to lock in a lower rate in the near future, it may be more cost effective to pay a discount point for a lower rate vs paying for a full refinance a few months later.

I heard that I should only refinance if I drop 1% on my mortgage, is that true?

Some people say ½%, 1% to never. Every mortgage is different.

Do I have to refinance with my current mortgage company?

No, you may choose any company you wish to refinance your mortgage since the new loan will replace the old mortgage.

Is it easier to refinance with my current mortgage company?

Sometimes your current company can reduce the documentation that is required, but this usually comes at increased costs and interest rate. Make sure that you check to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Will I automatically qualify?

No, you will have to qualify for your new refinance on your property. However certain programs will allow for reduced documentation like the FHA to FHA Streamline.

I am refinancing an FHA loan, will it benefit me to close in the beginning of the month?

No, in fact FHA refinances should always close at the end of the month because you are responsible for the entire month’s interest.

Should I be concerned about the closing date on a conventional loan refinance?
Not really, however you can save a couple dollars by closing early in the month, just avoid closing on a Friday because you could be responsible for the interest on two loans over the weekend.