3 Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Mortgage Refinancing

Refinancing your mortgage may be the best option to get the money you need or get your finances back on track. However, there are a few things you should know before you dive head first into the world of refinancing. Being an informed consumer is half the battle. Use these tips to get a head start and familiarize yourself with mortgage refinancing.

Know the Factors that Will Affect Your Rate

There are several factors that can influence the rate of your loan. Failing to familiarize your self with these factors can be dangerous to you as a financial consumer. Once you've decided to refinance your mortgage make it a point to know the following facts and figures:

• Credit Score - As with any financial move, it's always important to know your credit score. Your credit score will indicate to the lenders how likely you are to repay the loan and to do so in a timely manner.
• Loan Term -- The amount of time you have to repay your loan can directly impact your interest rates. In many cases the longer it takes you to pay off your loan the higher the interest. Likewise, a shorter repayment period can offer you lower interest rates.
• Type of Rate -- Is your interest rate a floating one that can change over time or is it locked in? Both can be beneficial on different and harmful on different levels making this something to consider when before you commit to any particular refinancing plan.

Know What Type of Loan You Need/Want

As a homeowner in the process of refinancing your mortgage, there are several options available to you. The type of loan you choose depends on several factors. You're loan officer should be able to guide you in the right direction finding you a loan that fits your needs. However, it will be beneficial to you as the home owner to ask your self these questions:

• How much time will I need to pay off this loan?
  
  
• How much money will I really need?
  
  
• How much can you pay a month and will you be able to overpay your monthly fee?
  
  
• Am I being one hundred percent honest with my self and the loan officer about my specific needs? If not what am I leaving out?

Familiarize Yourself with Mortgage and Refinancing Terms

It's nearly impossible to make a well informed decision about your refinancing options if you don't understand the basic terminology used by loan officers. Before you begin the refinancing process read up on your options and familiarize yourself with important terms. This can be as simple as going to a website that specializes in home loans or refinancing and reading the information they have available.

Watch the Rates

Mortgage refinancing should help you the homeowner by reducing your monthly payments. In order for this to benefit you, the interest rate should be lower than your initial rate. Interest rates can change often so it's in your best interest to pay attention to any drops in the interest rate. Periods if decreased interest rates will be the best time to refinance your home.

Countrywide Credit offers credit tools and calculators, mortgage refinancing, consolidation loan, and a comprehensive credit learning center to help educate consumers who are on their way to becoming home owners.
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