When Should I Refinance My Home Loan?

Ever heard the old rule of thumb, you should only refinance if your new interest rate is at least two points lower? That may have been true years ago, but with refinancing dropping in cost over the last few years, it's never the wrong time to think about a new loan! Refinancing has a number of benefits that often make it worth the up-front expenditure many times over.

What are the benefits of refinancing my home loan?

When you refinance, you might be able to lower your interest rate and monthly payment -- sometimes significantly. You might also be able to "cash out" some of the built-up equity in your home, which you can use to consolidate debt, improve your home, take a vacation -- whatever! With lower rates and balances, you might also be able to build up home equity faster with a shorter-term new mortgage.

What is a Home Equity Loan?

Do you need to tap into your home's equity to pay for a home remodeling project or to pay off a credit card? A home equity loan is a fixed or adjustable rate loan that is secured by the equity in your home. With a home equity loan, you borrow a lump sum of money to be paid back monthly over a set time frame, much like your first mortgage. The terms home equity loan and second mortgage are often used interchangeably.

The process for a home equity loan is similar to your first mortgage. The closing costs (often 2-3 percent of the loan amount) are usually lower and, although the interest rate is higher on a home equity loan, the interest paid is tax deductible.

To qualify for second mortgage, your credit must be in good standing and you must be able to document your income. An appraisal will be required on your home to determine the home's market value.