When you are looking to ensure that you make your home truly yours, the mortgage terms can matter. Not everyone can end up paying the mortgage they initially agreed to due to unavoidable circumstances, the economy, and more. When you are in such a situation, refinancing is the ideal option for you.
Whether you choose the rate and term option government program or any other ongoing refinancing program, you should be aware of every aspect. Here is what you should be aware of when it comes to the rate and term refinance:
Table Of Contents
What Is Rate and Term Refinance?
You might have heard of rate and term refinancing before but never fully grasped how it works and how to get started on applying for it. In simpler terms, a rate and term refinancing option enables you to switch out your existing mortgage for another one with better terms and conditions.
It ensures that you can amend the terms of your current mortgage loan and replace them with better conditions for your present financial situation. It can ensure that you are in a healthier financial position where you don’t have to worry about the looming mortgage payment each month.
Who Is Eligible?
Regarding refinancing programs, the most critical question is about eligibility. Many refinancing programs have stringent eligibility criteria, but the rate and term option government program doesn’t have excessive requirements. Lenders mainly consider:
- Your credit score matters considerably when you’re applying for this program. Depending on the loan category you are asking for, the credit score requirement can differ. A minimum score of 620 is asked for most programs.
- Your home equity will also be measured. It will gauge how much of the principal loan you have already paid. You might want to build upon your home equity as much as possible to take advantage of lower interest rates.
- Debt to income ratio will enable lenders to know how capable you are of paying back your loan. Lenders will need to know you are less likely to default on any refinancing option, and this metric helps with judging that.
What Benefits Do You Get?
When you’re weighing the advantages and cons of all options available to you, it’s good to know the benefits of this program. Mainly you will be able to:
- Lower your monthly payments when it comes to mortgage
- Reduce your interest rate in the long-term
- Switch your loan type with another
- Adjust the term of your loan
- Helps in removing mortgage insurance
- Aids in building home equity faster
Depending on your financial situation, there can be other benefits to applying for a refinancing program. Consider your financial stability before deciding to apply for this program.
Is There A Rate and Term Government Program?
The Federal Housing Administration loan is a mortgage that the government insures. It helps individuals to acquire and live in affordable housing across the country. The FHA guarantees them to help lenders against financial losses.
The borrower must satisfy separate criteria to qualify for this program. It is ideal for first-time homebuyers who might not have the prerequisite credit score to qualify for any other program.
