postheadericon Learning How to Avoid Pitfalls of Mortgage Refinance



by Jim Parker


Great benefits for homeowners have come about as a result of a slow economy. Banks everywhere are competing for your business by offering deals on refinancing and new mortgages. Choosing the right offer for a particular financial need will save you thousands of dollars while making the wrong choice could lead you into debt.

It is highly important to research and learn the basics of different mortgage options before deciding which loan is right for you.

Everyone you talk with is obsessed with interest rates. One must also consider the term length, lender fees, amortization schedule and closing costs. It is wise to request a Good Faith Estimate prior to completing any application. Closing costs can quickly delete any savings you would normally receive from refinancing. Before refinancing, calculate the fees to determine if this will benefit you in the long run. Compute your break-even point to determine how long you will have to stay in your home before seeing any kind of savings.

Locking in an interest rate is highly recommended. These can change while a loan is being processed and you may end up with a higher cost when the final paperwork is completed. Ask the lender to put the agreed upon interest in writing and verify it when all is complete. Banks are not required to do this unless requested. Adjustable rate mortgages are only good for borrowers who intend to sell the property within one or two years. Long-term owners should understand as interest raises or lowers, so will their monthly expense. Several individuals have found themselves in foreclosure status due to extremely high payments.

Individuals who are comfortable with their regular bank should not just automatically get loans from them. Always shop around for the best rates and see if your current institution will match or beat it. Bring back estimates and see if your current institution will match or beat it. A requalification process is still required even if your regular bank has provided past loans. Even if you have received prior loans from an institution, you must prequalify. Despite laws to protect borrowers, many will continue to be overcharged. Many people will continue to be overcharged on interest rates and lender fees. Banks are profit making businesses and will continue to get the most out of every customer.




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