Refinancing a fixed rate mortgage is usually only suggested when interest rates fall, but you can also save money by changing your loan terms. You can also pull out part of your equity to pay bills or renovate.
Lower Interest Rates
In general when interest rates are at least 1% lower than your current mortgage rate, it pays to refinance. But you need to consider other factors, such as the length of your mortgage, loan costs, and how long you plan to stay in your home.
An adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) should also be considered if you plan to move soon. With rates lower than a fixed, you will see lower monthly payments. But you have the risk that your rates and payments will increase over time.
To help decide if refinancing makes sense for you, calculate the difference in interest payments over the course of your loan. Online mortgage calculators can help you find both total interest costs and monthly payments.
Better Loan Terms
Besides lower interest rates, you can save money by converting to a better loan term. A shorter loan, such as a 15 year term, can save you thousands on interest payments, even if you don’t have a lower interest rate. However, your monthly payments will be 10% to 15% higher.
You can also reduce your monthly payments by refinancing for a longer term. You trade lower payments for higher interest costs.
Access Your Equity
Whether you want to pay off credit cards or pay for your child’s education, you can pull out your equity by refinancing. One of the advantages of using your equity is that your interest is tax deductible.
However, if you just want to tap into your equity, a better option is a home equity loan. You can pull out your equity, write off your interest on your taxes, and avoid loan fees.
Online Lenders
Online financing companies allow you to research terms and fees from your home. You can receive quotes within minutes online, so you can compare finance packages. You can also apply online and qualify for discounts on closing cost with some lenders.
By: Carrie Reeder
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Home Mortgage Lenders - How To Find A Good Mortgage Broker Online
Mortgage lenders have set up shop online, but they aren’t all reputable mortgage brokers. To find a good mortgage lender you need to compare rates and research to find reputable companies.
Mortgage Broker Services
A mortgage broker works with several lenders to find the best financing for the purchase of a home. No matter if you have perfect credit or bad credit, typically a mortgage broker can find you a lower mortgage rate than if you went with your neighborhood bank.
It is important to remember that brokers are paid by adding on a fee or point to the loan, so you should do comparison shopping even with a mortgage broker.
One Stop Shopping
Online mortgage brokers have reduced time spent comparing mortgage lenders by consolidating information about several lenders into one site. Through such mortgage sites, you only enter your information once to receive interest rates from several different mortgage lenders.
Compare Rates And Fees
While online mortgage brokers make getting quotes easy, it is important to still take the time to compare rates. Your mortgage rate will be based on current interest rates, the property’s location, your credit score, and employment history. If you receive a rate quote without providing this detailed information, then you are just getting a general estimate.
General estimates for mortgage rates are still a useful tool to narrow your choices to at least three lenders. You can then apply for a true mortgage estimate with the most promising companies. With these true mortgage quotes, look at both the rates and fees to determine the actual cost of the loan.
Research Reputable Companies
Interest rates aren’t the only factor to consider when comparing mortgage lenders. You should also be comfortable with the lender’s reputation. Unfortunately, there is not a list of reputable mortgage lenders, but common sense can protect you from a bad mortgage lender.
First, do research on your top choices for mortgage lenders. Check out the lender’s website to find their physical location, list of terms, and available customer support. Secondly, beware of too good to be true claims, such as statements that this is the only company that will finance your mortgage loan. And finally, do not sign any blank forms from a lender. You don’t know what they add later.
By: Carrie Reeder
Mortgage Broker Services
A mortgage broker works with several lenders to find the best financing for the purchase of a home. No matter if you have perfect credit or bad credit, typically a mortgage broker can find you a lower mortgage rate than if you went with your neighborhood bank.
It is important to remember that brokers are paid by adding on a fee or point to the loan, so you should do comparison shopping even with a mortgage broker.
One Stop Shopping
Online mortgage brokers have reduced time spent comparing mortgage lenders by consolidating information about several lenders into one site. Through such mortgage sites, you only enter your information once to receive interest rates from several different mortgage lenders.
Compare Rates And Fees
While online mortgage brokers make getting quotes easy, it is important to still take the time to compare rates. Your mortgage rate will be based on current interest rates, the property’s location, your credit score, and employment history. If you receive a rate quote without providing this detailed information, then you are just getting a general estimate.
General estimates for mortgage rates are still a useful tool to narrow your choices to at least three lenders. You can then apply for a true mortgage estimate with the most promising companies. With these true mortgage quotes, look at both the rates and fees to determine the actual cost of the loan.
Research Reputable Companies
Interest rates aren’t the only factor to consider when comparing mortgage lenders. You should also be comfortable with the lender’s reputation. Unfortunately, there is not a list of reputable mortgage lenders, but common sense can protect you from a bad mortgage lender.
First, do research on your top choices for mortgage lenders. Check out the lender’s website to find their physical location, list of terms, and available customer support. Secondly, beware of too good to be true claims, such as statements that this is the only company that will finance your mortgage loan. And finally, do not sign any blank forms from a lender. You don’t know what they add later.
By: Carrie Reeder
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