Mortgage refinance is when you take out a new loan to pay off and replace your old loan. Common reasons to refinance are to lower the monthly interest rate, lower the mortgage payment, or to borrow additional money. When you refinance, you usually have to pay closing costs and fees. If you refinance and get a lower monthly payment, make sure you understand how much of the reduction is from a lower interest rate and how much is because your loan term is longer.
Related Articles
Understanding Homestead Rights
In Illinois, when one spouse takes out a mortgage on a property, the other spouse may be required to sign certain documents related to the mortgage and the property’s homestead rights. Here’s why this is typically necessary: Homestead Rights Protection: Homestead Rights in Illinois provide homeowners with certain protections for their primary residence, safeguarding a...
Understanding the Loan Estimate (LE): A Comprehensive Guide for Homebuyers
One of the most important documents you’ll encounter when navigating the mortgage process is the Loan Estimate (LE). This three-page form is crucial for understanding the terms of your loan and comparing offers from different lenders. In this post, we’ll explain what the LE is, why it’s used, and the timelines for executing it, as...
Understanding the Closing Disclosure (CD): A Detailed Guide for Homebuyers
As you approach the final stages of the mortgage process, the Closing Disclosure (CD) becomes a critical document that outlines the final terms of your loan. Reviewing this document carefully before closing on your new home is essential. In this blog post, we’ll explain the CD, its use, and its associated timelines and provide a...
