Mortgage Refi FAQ - Why Should I Refinance?

Why should I refinance?

The most common reason for refinancing is to save money. Saving money through refinancing can be achieved in four ways:

  • By obtaining a lower interest rate that causes one’s monthly mortgage payment to be reduced.
  • By reducing the term of the loan, thus saving money over the life of the loan. For example, refinancing from a 30-year loan to a 15-year loan might result in higher monthly payments, but the total of the payments made during the life of the loan can be reduced significantly.
  • By converting an adjustable loan to a fixed loan. The main reason behind this type of refinance is to obtain the stability and the security of a fixed loan. Fixed loans are very popular when interest rates are low, whereas adjustable loans tend to be more popular when rates are higher. When rates are low, homeowners refinance to lock in low rates. When rates are high, homeowners prefer adjustable loans to obtain lower payments.
  • By consolidating debts and replacing high-interest loans with a low-rate mortgage. The loans being consolidated may include second mortgages, credit lines, student loans, credit cards, etc. In many cases, debt consolidation results in tax savings, since consumer loans are not tax deductible, while a mortgage loan may be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor regarding tax deductibility.

 

Contact a Sandy Spring Bank mortgage banker for more information.