Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Mortgage Refinance Loans Tips

By John Bear

Choosing the right type of mortgage for your situation could indeed save you thousands of dollars. So, first things first. There are two main types of mortgage loans to choose from when refinancing your home mortgage loan that would depend on your financial needs and tolerance for risk. Here are a few simple tips that will help you with the proper selection of a mortgage.

The two types of mortgage refinance loans are loans with fixed interest rates and those with adjustable interest rates. As for fixed rate mortgages, they come with ten to fifty years of term lengths and have payments based upon an interest rate that does not change for the duration of the loan.

Adjustable rate mortgages, on the other hand, are specifically based on a financial index and that will include the mortgage lenders margin. Hybrid loans is another type of mortgage that are a combination of fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages.

The interest rate on your Adjustable Rate Mortgage will only change every time the lender resets your loan. When the lender resets your interest rate and payment amount, they will then use the financial index your loan is tied to plus their own margin. The most common index that is used by mortgage lenders is the one-year treasury note. Adjustable Rate Mortgages have the advantage of lower initial payments, but these loans have more risk for borrowers once the lender begins adjusting the loan.

For those homeowners who understand the risks with adjustable rate mortgage refinance loans, they will be able to save thousands of dollars with refinancing. So don't write off adjustable rate mortgages just because someone told you that you will be in a payment shock when the lender starts adjusting your loan.

Now, there are several advantages to accepting an adjustable mortgage. As a start, a low rate mortgage will allow buyers to purchase pricier home even while maintaining an affordable monthly payment. And because of the record of low rates, home buyers who obtain an adjustable rate mortgage may enjoy falling rates without even having to refinance their mortgage. Thus, they can avoid the closing costs and other fees.

Adjustable rate mortgages are ideal for individuals who plan on moving in a few years. Some people love the stability of living in one place for many years. In this case, refinancing for a fixed rate is a wise choice; however, if you prefer the flexibility of moving every three to five years, you will be sure to save money with an adjustable rate.

Luckily, home mortgage loans can be refinanced whenever you feel like it and some lenders even suggest allowing the loan to mature at least 12 months. But if you detect a market trend change, a smart move would be refinancing shortly after purchasing your home. Those contemplating refinancing have got to be prepared to pay additional closing fees. You can contact your current lender and inquire more of prepayment penalties regarding your mortgage refinance loans. - 16003