Refinance Article Archive 2007

Can't Pay the Mortgage? Try Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | November 30, 2007

When past-due statements are piling up, and you don't want to lose the house, a Chapter 13 bankruptcy might be the right solution.

Prepayment Penalties Block the Way to Refinance

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | November 15, 2007

In the financial world, there's usually a catch when it comes to a great deal. Subprime mortgages are a great example. These loans, with low-interest introductory rates, have a major catch: prepayment penalties.

New Paper Suggests Optimal Time to Refinance

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | November 13, 2007

According to results of a study recently released by a group of economists, the best time to refinance may be later, not sooner. Their research indicates that a new "one or two percent rule" may be valuable in predicting the most profitable time for refinancing a home loan.

A New Alternative to Refinancing

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | November 04, 2007

A new plan proposed by the FDIC Chairman might do away with the need for subprime borrowers to refinance their loans. Although her recommendation is radical, it could be beneficial for everyone concerned.

Four Financial Tips to Put More Money in Your Wallet

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | November 03, 2007

Making money generally requires a lot of hard work. There are, however, some easy ways that you can add a few extra dollars to your wallet. Starting with a mortgage refinance, consider these simple and painless methods for generating cash.

Advice for Move-Up Buyers

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | October 31, 2007

The current real estate market presents unique problems for the move-up buyer. Experts recommend financing solutions to manage the transition.

Refinance Now, Before Steeper Declines in Prices

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | October 25, 2007

New predictions by Moody's Economy.com put the pressure on homeowners to make their refinancing decisions sooner rather than later.

Beleaguered Homeowners Get Housing Help

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | October 20, 2007

Homeowners are struggling to survive as their adjustable-rate mortgage payments are on the rise. Help is out there for the thousands of homeowners who've been put into mortgages that they can't afford.

A Safer Haven: Refinance to Fixed-Rate Mortgage

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | October 18, 2007

A high percentage of borrowers with adjustable-rate mortgage are choosing to refinance to safer, fixed-rate loans.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac May Help Refinancing Crisis

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | September 30, 2007

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are federal agencies with a mandate to support the mortgage markets in the U.S. Now that those markets are in turmoil, some members of Congress want them to support the refinance of subprime and jumbo loans to help relieve borrowers.

Is a Cash-out Refinancing Right for You?

By:

Ellen B. Rosenthal - MortgageLoan.com | September 11, 2007

In a cash-out refinancing, you take out a new mortgage for an amount that's larger than your current principal balance. You can then use the extra money as you wish. Just make sure that you compare the costs of this type of financing with the costs of a home equity loan before proceeding.

Perfect Timing for Refinancing?

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | September 07, 2007

Making a living as a stockbroker is hardly a walk in the park. To help their clients make successful investments, they must correctly interpret countless market variables. You face a similar challenge if you're trying to pick the perfect time to refinance your mortgage.

Refinance to Safety

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | September 01, 2007

Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) used to be the apple of a homeowner's eye. With their low teaser rates, ARMs offered smaller monthly payments than most fixed-rate products. But today's rising rates and tightening lending standards have turned the apple rotten, and forced homeowners to look at other options, like mortgage refinancing.

How Expensive is a Mortgage Refinance?

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 25, 2007

Refinancing is similar to applying for an original mortgage. But people who have never done it before may be unsure of their out-of-pocket costs. To help you plan for your refinance, an understanding of what fees to expect can come in handy.

Before You Refinance: Three Hard Questions to Ask

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | August 21, 2007

Refinancing your mortgage can be a lifesaver, especially if you have an adjustable-rate mortgage that's rising. But before you rush to refinance, answer a few important questions about your situation. The following Q&A might help you avoid difficulty down the road.

Three Tips for Refinancing Online

By:

Kristie Lorette - MortgageLoan.com | August 14, 2007

As interest rates rise, so too does the number of adjustable-rate mortgage holders who are turning to mortgage refinancing as an escape from the insecurity of ever-changing rates. If you choose to shop for a mortgage refinance on the Internet, it's important to take necessary safeguards to ensure a smooth process.

Newlyweds: Merge your assets with a mortgage refinance

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | August 09, 2007

Newlyweds: If one of you owns a home and a mortgage, be sure that you understand the consequences of how you choose to share the responsibility of home ownership.

Three Dangers of Refinancing

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | July 30, 2007

Mortgage refinances have resulted in plenty of rewards for homeowners. But the risks are becoming more complicated as lenders alter programs and find new ways to drive profits. Understand both sides of the coin before committing a penny to a mortgage refinance.

Five Things to Expect from Refinancing

By:

Danette Pelletier - MortgageLoan.com | July 21, 2007

Borrowers are refinancing their homes in droves. While this practice can offer many benefits for homeowners, knowing what to expect can help you decide if it's right for you.

Renovation Refinance Loans

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | July 11, 2007

There's a new mortgage refinance loan in town-the renovation refinance loan. This hot new lending product could be the best way to renovate your new home without breaking your personal piggy bank in the process.

Is It Too Late to Refinance your ARM?

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | July 05, 2007

Fixed mortgage rates are inching up, and industry experts are split on where rates are going from here. Can you still afford to refinance your ARM? Can you afford not to?

Top Five Reasons to Use a Mortgage Broker for Refinancing

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | July 03, 2007

Whether you're shopping for groceries or looking for a car, you want options. Shopping for a mortgage loan is no different. And there's no better place to find options for a mortgage refinance than with a mortgage broker.

Help Manage Debt with a Mortgage Refinance

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | July 01, 2007

The creative use of mortgage refinancing can be a smart way to consolidate debt and manage consumer purchases and personal finances. By tapping into home equity, you can make interest rates and payment schedules work for you, rather than against you.

Refinance: Help for an Aging House

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | June 28, 2007

When you're on a tight budget, it's natural to put off expensive home repairs. Just don't wait until the roof caves in. A mortgage refinance may be the solution that gets your home back to working order.

Best Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | June 25, 2007

Refinancing is similar to a key to a buried treasure. If it fits your financial situation, it can lead to some significant financial rewards. Consider some of the top reasons why many people refinance, and unlock the power of your home's equity.

Benefits of Online Mortgage Refinancing

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | June 20, 2007

The Internet has replaced the dog as man's best friend-especially if that man is a shopper. On the web, you can find countless products and services at low prices. The same online benefits are also enjoyed by homeowners looking for a home refinance.

Refinance to Remodel

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | June 14, 2007

Coming up with the necessary cash to finance a remodeling project can be the hardest part of the entire task. But creative mortgage refinance strategies can provide the right tools for the job, especially in 2007, since property refinancing rates and basic building materials are affordably priced.

Which is Better: Cash-Out Refinance or a Home Equity Loan?

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | June 07, 2007

Having equity in your home can be a valuable source of needed cash. Whether you should use a home equity loan or a cash-out refinance to access that equity depends on a number of factors.

Top Four Reasons to Refinance Your Home

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | May 18, 2007

A few years back, low interest rates created a mortgage refinance boom. With homeowners welcoming significantly reduced rates, the decision to refinance was a no-brainer. Now, with rates rising, refinancing is slowing down. No matter-there may still be some solid reasons why a refinance makes sense.

Sidestep Costly Option ARMS with a Mortgage Refinance

By:

MortgageLoan.com | May 05, 2007

Option ARMs offer unique ways to minimize monthly payments in the beginning of a loan. But many of these mortgages can become so costly, they push homeowners into financial crisis. You can avoid the inherent problems of Option ARMs by refinancing into a less risky mortgage.

Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) Refinancing

By:

MortgageLoan.com | April 26, 2007

Did you know that the federal government can help you make energy improvements to your home? If you've considered remodeling, take the time to learn more about the FHA's Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) Program. You might qualify for a higher loan amount to fund energy improvements that will lower your living expenses.

Six Common Refinancing Mistakes

By:

MortgageLoan.com | April 17, 2007

Consumers who refinance their mortgages often pay too much, borrow more than necessary, or refinance when it serves no real purpose. Here are some tips to help you avoid costly mistakes that might otherwise offset the benefits of your refinance strategy.

Refinance your Mobile Home Loan

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | April 12, 2007

As a mobile home owner, you pay interest and build equity just as a traditional mortgage borrower does. Even if your mobile home isn't financed with a mortgage, you can still use a refinance to move closer to your financial goals.

Which Refinance Mortgage Loan is Right for You?

By:

MortgageLoan.com | March 30, 2007

Considering a mortgage refinance? Prepare yourself for an informed decision by knowing when to choose a fixed-rate mortgage and when to choose its adjustable-rate counterpart.

Lousy Housing Market? Don't Sell…Refinance!

By:

MortgageLoan.com | March 27, 2007

Many homeowners feel stuck between a rock and a hard place now that buyers control the reins of the real estate market. Selling into a falling market is risky; but you can avoid that fate by using a creative mortgage refinance strategy to relieve the pressure.

Refinancing Your Mortgage? Know the lingo

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | March 11, 2007

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And when you're shopping for a mortgage refinance, it's financially prudent to know what your loan officer knows-or at least have an inkling of what he's talking about. Understanding the ABCs of mortgage terminology is one way to improve your product knowledge and help you negotiate a better deal.

Mortgage Refinancing for the Self-Employed

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | March 08, 2007

Being your own boss can be both a highly frustrating and very rewarding experience. The process of getting a mortgage when you're self-employed serves as a perfect example. It may be difficult to qualify for a home equity loan, first mortgage, or mortgage refinance. However, there are some significant benefits.

Cash in on the Refinancing Boom

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | March 06, 2007

As we enter 2007, homeowners are refinancing their mortgages at the fastest pace in almost two years. For some, it represents a wise financial move. But there are several factors to consider before deciding if a mortgage refinance makes sense to you.

Refinancing: Debts and Taxes

By:

MortgageLoan.com | March 01, 2007

Have you recently done a mortgage refinance? Whether you borrowed to pull out equity or to access lower refinance rates, you've moved one step closer to accomplishing your financial goals. As tax season rolls around, it's important to keep that positive momentum going by understanding refinance-related tax deductions.

"Fix and Flip" Refinancing

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | February 21, 2007

If you're trying to make money by using the "Fix and Flip" real estate investment strategy, don't let the recent rise in mortgage rates bring you down. Since the real estate market has slowed to a crawl in many parts of the country, the "fast cash" from "fix and flip" might not be readily available. But with a cautious approach, there's still money to be made.

Tips to Reduce Monthly Mortgage Payment

By:

Greg Mischio - MortgageLoan.com | February 20, 2007

Do you fear the end of the month, when the bills roll in and stretch your budget to its breaking point? If you're feeling a cash crunch, consider these tips for lowering your monthly payments with a mortgage refinance.

Refinancing: A Potentially Healthy Addiction

By:

Tom Kerr - MortgageLoan.com | February 13, 2007

Refinancing mortgage loans is the most popular way to generate quick and easy cash. As interest rates change, homeowners can use strategic mortgage refinance plans to save more money. There are pitfalls, but if you use home equity loans wisely, you'll reap substantial rewards.

Dropping Mortgage Rates Spur Refinance Fever

By:

MortgageLoan.com | January 30, 2007

After a series of 17 rate increases, the Federal Reserve has been holding steady. As a result, mortgage rates have begun to fall. Those who wanted to refinance their mortgages for extra cash, or to opt out of adjustable rate mortgages, but hesitated because mortgage rates kept rising, now have a rare window of opportunity.

Is it Time to Refinance?

By:

Catherine Brock - MortgageLoan.com | January 29, 2007

Whether it's the right time to refinance your home mortgage depends on a few specific factors, and a hefty amount of your own good judgment. While there's no formula or spreadsheet that will tell you what to do, the following article provides a framework to make your decision-making process easy and efficient.

Refinancing Tips for a Smooth Closing

By:

Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | January 23, 2007

There are a few things you can do to ensure that closing day for a mortgage refinance will be free of nasty surprises. Prepare as early as you can, and get assistance.

Four Good Reasons to Refinance your Home

By:

Jan Lindsey - MortgageLoan.com | January 08, 2007

Refinancing can help reduce your monthly mortgage payment, stabilize your interest rate, put cash in your pocket, or help make other debt more manageable. It requires effort, but if a refinance mortgage helps meet your goals, it can be time very well spent.

Upgrade Your Investment Properties With a Mortgage Refinance

By:

Anders Bylund - MortgageLoan.com | January 01, 2007

As a real estate investor, you should look for the best ways to unlock the value of your investments. The key to increasing your revenues is upgrading. You can find the funds to do this with a mortgage refinance.