What Does It Mean To Refinance A Loan?

To “Refinance” means to revise an existing mortgage. The current mortgage is paid off and is replaced by a new mortgage. People typically refinance to lower their interest rate, pay off debt, cash-out equity, or change loan type/terms. Today’s mortgage rates are at or near historic lows; and over 50% of homeowners with mortgages pay interest rates above today’s current rates. Many could save thousands by refinancing. Are you one of them?

 

How much can you save by Refinancing? If you have a 30 year mortgage at 6.2% taken out 5 years ago and have a current loan balance of $188,000. Refinancing into a 3.5% interest rate into a 25 year mortgage would save you $300 per month and over $90,000 over the life of the loan. The savings opportunity in todays low interest rate environment is substantial, but refinancing your home can have certain costs associated with it; therefore you will need to evaluate whether the benefits outweighs the costs to refinance your existing home mortgage.

 

Below you will find some basic knowledge and things to consider when trying to determine if a refinance makes sense for you.

  • TAKE CASH OUT

    Leverage your investment and use the equity your home has gained over the years

    Good for

    Renovating your home
    Paying down high-interest debt

    Use my equity

  • LOWER YOUR PAYMENT

    As an established homeowner, you can improve your financial security by refinancing to a lower payment

    Good for

    Lowering your monthly outlay
    Planning for retirement

    Reduce my payment

  • SHORTEN YOUR LOAN TERM

    Refinance into a shorter term so you can pay off your mortgage sooner

    Good for

    Reducing the amount of interest you’ll pay
    Becoming mortgage-free faster

    Shorten my term