Refinance FAQs
You already have a mortgage and are considering updating it to better align with your current situation.
Yet, you’re wondering how it all works…
Good news - we have answers!
What is a refinance?
Often called a “refi” for short - a refinance is when a borrower replaces their current mortgage with a new one, typically with more favorable terms. With the new mortgage, the previous/existing debt is paid off so that the new terms can be put into place.
When does it make sense to refinance?
It's best to refinance when the benefits of doing so are worth it to you.
We can’t decide that for you, and there’s not one single factor that determines when it’s “best.”
You might consider refinancing for any/all of the following:
Current market interest rates are lower than what you’re paying
Your credit has significantly improved qualifying you for a lower interest rate
Your payment can become more affordable
Budget friendly debt consolidation because current market rates are still lower than credit card interest rates
You need some extra cash on hand for improvements, security, or something else
You need to remove someone from the loan for legal reasons
You want to get rid of mortgage insurance, because your home value has increased
You want to pay your home off sooner, with a shorter term on the loan
How can refinancing help me?
There are lots of good benefits to refinancing your mortgage!
Shorten the term (how long you pay) of the loan
Reduce your monthly mortgage payment
Debt consolidation and simplify payments
Cash-out refi to fund projects or other purchases
Get you out of mortgage insurance
Get you away from your current loan servicer and over to another
To payoff additional mortgages or outstanding student loans
What are the steps in a refinance?
A refinance of a mortgage is very similar to the financing process of buying a home initially. Just without the hassle of packing up and moving all your stuff. :)
#1 - Connect with a lender to review your situation and see if a refi is right for you.
#2 - Submit documentation and confirm information.
#3 - Updated appraisal for your home is completed
#4 - Finalize application
#5 - Submit to underwriting
#6 - Closing of new mortgage
#7 - Celebrate!
What’s the timeline to refinance my mortgage?
We typically see refinance journeys take about four to six weeks, from beginning to end.
Of course, this timeline can change depending on how quickly or slowly the communication flows.
Always check in with your lender and ask about timeline expectations.
What is debt consolidation?
Debt consolidation is when you transfer a series of individual debts into one sum of debt.
This can simplify your budget because instead of making (for example) five separate payments, you’re making one singular payment.
Often, you’ll also see a lower monthly payment because the interest rates are lower.
While good for your budget, we really love how good this is for lowering your stress levels and helping you be financially confident.
Have another question?
We’d be happy to answer!
Contact Us
2753 99th St, Urbandale, IA 50322
Charles: (515) 229-6564
Kyle: (319) 850-2435
Fax: (866) 424-0683
[email protected]