Interest rates are at all time lows, so should you refinance?
It depends on your individual situation. There is a lot of information available about refinancing and I will not re-hash all of that. Rather, let me direct you to one of my favorite websites,
CNN Money.
A few tips that I would offer about refinancing:
- An appraisal of your home will be required. This appraisal will be unlike the one when you first purchased your home. Many of us recall home purchase appraisals that came in right at contract sales price. A re-fi appraisal will be different. This appraisal will be a true market value analysis of your home and it may shock you. Often times, though not always, a re-fi appraisal value will be higher than a purchase appraisal. A savvy seller will know the market conditons in the area before listing their home. You can stay on top of the information by viewing the latest TARR Report. The basic data is available for public viewing.
- You should know the fair market value of your home BEFORE you pay someone to tell you. Every few years, go back to the agent who represented you when you purchased your home and ask for a Comparitive Market Analysis. If your agent does not offer one
at no cost, contact me and I'll be glad to provide one to you.
- Stay up to date with recent sales in your neighborhood and in your area. We offer a free monthly e-newlstter detailing trends by market area. Please sign up today to stay connected with your local market.
- If you have evaluated all the data and decide refinancing is the best option for you, please let me refer you to FM Lending Services. We have 2 fabulous mortgage bankers who can help you through the process. Anthony Pellegrino and Steve Fitzpatrick are professional, courteous, and timely. That's what really matters in today's fast paced market.