Is now the right time to refinance your home?
So, interest rates have changed since you took out your home loan and you think it could be time to refinance your existing mortgage? But the entire loan application process was so exhausting during the initial loan that you're not sure it's worth the hassle? Maybe this article will be of help.
You could very well be right, but there are some things you can do to help decide whether it's time to refinance your mortgage.
Interest rate
The first thing you need to verify is the interest rate for your existing mortgage - and the interest rates being offered across the board for new loans.
If there's not at least a one and a half to two point difference, you're probably not going to be significantly better off to refinance your mortgage.
Here's why.
Remember those costs on your initial mortgage?
You probably paid for a valuation, perhaps a building expection, lenders fees ... not to mention stamp duty!
Time to Refinance?
If you are seeking lower rates, lower fees and more flexibility in your home loan. you are in luck! Our national panel of mortgage brokers is looking forward to an opportunity to assist you. Apply online for a free eligibility assessment and one of our broker network refinance specialists will get on the case to track down the best deal for your individual circumstances. Without any obligation and at no charge to you!
Depending on how long it's been since your original loan, you may be faced with having those processes repeated.
Especially if you are going with another lender, have had the existing mortgage for at least two years, have made major modifications to your home or property, or have seen some significant variations in property values in your area, you're probably going to be required to have a new valuation at the very least.
Remember, it's important to take these costs into consideration when comparing the amount you're going to save on a slight drop in interest rates ... it may take many months ... or even years to recoup those expenses.
Costs
Don't forget that you'll likely have some additional costs from the lender on the new mortgage (you are, after all, taking out a new mortgage even though you have an existing loan) and, in some cases, you may even be facing penalties for paying off your existing loan early.
Weigh those costs against what you expect to save before you take this step.
So, does that mean that you should never refinance an existing mortgage?
Actually, there are plenty of opportunities when refinancing your mortgage makes good financial sense.
Valuation
If you've significantly increased the value of your home or have been paying for several years, you may have enough equity to qualify for a better interest rate.
You may also lower monthly payments or refinance to make improvements.
In the end, it's up to you to weigh the costs of refinancing your mortgage and decide if the time is right for you to take this step.
We have provided for your assistance a free mortgage refinance calculator to help you do the sums.
We can also provide you with a free home loan refinance assessment. Just visit our home loans page.
Published:Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori
Share this article:
Time for a 2nd opinion on your Home & Contents Insurance?
We now offer a nation-wide panel of specialist Household Insurance brokers ready to help you lock down the best value home and contents insurance solution - tailored to your individual needs and guaranteed to save you money!
Compare Public Liability Insurance Quotes
If you are renewing your public liability insurance in the near future,, it might be well worth your while to shop around. Or, better still, let us do it for you! Much has changed in the public liability insurance market following recent events and there are many new policies and special deals on the market that were not available even one year ago. A single 3-minute online enquiry will give you access to multiple quotes from multiple insurers via our national broker panel, guaranteed to save you time and money!!. So, why not give us a go … free service, no obligation!