Short term investment for long term gain - why it pays to refinance

Interest rates are currently low, 30-year mortgage rates are dancing above four per cent, so if your home is financed at a higher rate, it may be a great time for you to consider refinancing.

Here are a few things to consider before you do:

1. Know what it will cost to end your current mortgage. It seems like a simple point to make, but some mortgages, particularly fixed-rate loans can have expensive break costs. Knowing what it will cost you to break your mortgage is the first thing you need to do because this will become your benchmark. If you’re not going to save more than the break cost – maybe refinancing isn’t right at this time.

   
   

2. Think about the term of your loan and calculate if you can save interest or have more money in your back pocket each month by lengthening or shortening the term. You could use Liberty’s loan repayment calculator to work out your own situation.

   
   

3. As a part of refinancing, you should also consider if moving to a fixed interest rate will work for you.

   
   

4. Remember you can refinance more than just your mortgage. Bringing all of your debts together could reduce your monthly fees and streamline your repayments. You’ll have one lump sum leaving your account each month and if you have any questions, you’ve only got one number to call.

   
   

   Think about consolidating your credit card debt, car loans and home loans all into one when looking at refinancing.