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What to do before closing on a refinance?

By Robert Clark |

Here are some of the items you’ll need to bring to closing:

  1. Identification such as a driver’s license, government-issued photo ID or passport.
  2. A cashier’s check to cover your closing costs (if applicable)
  3. Your Closing Disclosure, which you can use to double-check the final paperwork.

How do you know if it’s smart to refinance?

When it’s a good idea to refinance your mortgage Consider refinancing if you can lower your interest rate by one-half to three-quarters of a percentage point — this can substantially lower your monthly payment. Make sure your total monthly savings offset the cost of refinancing, however.

How long is the refinance process?

A refinance typically takes 30 – 45 days to complete. However, no one will be able to tell you exactly how long yours will take. Appraisals, inspections and other third parties can delay the process. Your refinance might be longer or shorter, depending on the size of your property and how complicated your finances are.

What are the questions to ask when refinancing a mortgage?

First, ask each lender what types of loans they offer, the types of refinance options available and how to qualify for each. Then test your lender’s knowledge by asking about the difference between the interest rate and APR, how your monthly payment will change and what’s on your Closing Disclosure.

How long does it take to refinance a mortgage?

“The loan would restart to Day One. So consider it a new loan. A borrower can choose a term from 10 years up to 30 years,” says Hassieb. The cost to refinance a mortgage can vary based on such factors as interest rate, credit score, loan amount, and lender.

How can I get a better mortgage refinance deal?

As a homeowner, if you want to get a better mortgage refinance deal, you should shop around and make lenders compete for your business. Hassieb says most lenders have an online link to a refinance pre-approval that can help the lender understand the borrowers’ financial situation and help them achieve their financial goals.

How to find out if you fit into a refinance program?

“The best way to find out if you fit into a program is to go to a lender.” Roy Meshel, district vice president for W.J. Bradley Mortgage in Phoenix, recommends homeowners refinance quickly in case the housing slump deepens, causing values to depreciate even more.