Refinancing is a good financial option that can allow you to free
funds to meet a variety of needs or undertake a special project.
But good as it may sound; it is an option that needs careful thought
and consideration. Here are a few details about refinancing that
you should be aware of.
Kind of Mortgage
The most vital aspect of refinancing is opting for a right kind of mortgage. If you opt for a wrong mortgage you can often end up losing money in a long run even with a low interest rate. Conversely, even when your interest rates are high it can take a very long time to recoup your closing costs with the right kind of mortgage. Therefore, some mortgages are better suited for a shorter time frame, there are some for an intermediate length of time and there are others for an extended period. Consider the amount you want to borrow – if you’re simply refinancing your existing loan then most lenders will let you borrow around 80% of your home’s current appraised value or more.
Reasons for Refinancing
Refinancing is a good option if you want to reduce monthly payments; consolidate outstanding debt, such as combining a first and second mortgage into a new first mortgage; tap built-up equity in their homes or get out of a mortgage product that is dissatisfactory or expensive.
Considerations for Refinancing
If you are considering refinancing, it is important to decide the amount of money you need to borrow. Besides this, you need to consider the actual time frame within which you can begin to save money and repay your loans. Also taxes in the form of mortgage taxes, realty transfer taxes, mortgage recording fees and others need careful consideration. Review these fees carefully, as they can add as much as 2% of the mortgage amount to your closing costs, and significantly lengthen the cost recovery time.