What To Expect

 Here is an example that will help you determine if refinancing makes sense for you.

Rick and Carol have a home they bought 3 years ago for $300,000 and they have 5 years remaining on a balloon mortgage of $200,000 with an interest rate of 7.25%. Their monthly payments are $1364.35. They intend to live in their home for several years and would like to lock in a 30-year mortgage with a 6.25% fixed rate.

When reviewing the feasibility of refinancing, you may also wish to consider refinancing a larger or smaller amount than the current balance of your mortgage. If you have excess funds available and believe you will have a hard time earning a return greater than the mortgage rate, you may want to pay down your mortgage and get a new mortgage that is smaller. If you have other liquidity needs, you may want to refinance a larger amount to free up some of the equity in your home.

Remember that mortgage interest is tax deductible if you itemize your deductions on your tax return. Consult your tax advisor to see how this may apply to your situation.

No interest rate environment lasts forever and there is no crystal ball that will tell you when rates have reached their lowest level. Taking action now to evaluate whether refinancing now makes economic sense, and evaluating the type of mortgage you want, can help you be in control of one of your largest household expenses.