Deciding Between A Mortgage Refinance And Mortgage Modification
Articles - Mortgage
The United States of America is currently experiencing a recession and credit crisis. People are losing their jobs and homes every day. High interest rates and high monthly mortgage payments are causing homeowners to seek ways of saving money and lowering monthly payments. There are many homeowners who are currently trying to choose between a mortgage refinance and a mortgage modification. Although the terms sound similar, there is a huge difference between these two options for homeowners.
by Dr.TomRhudy


The United States of America is currently experiencing a recession and credit crisis. People are losing their jobs and homes every day. High interest rates and high monthly mortgage payments are causing homeowners to seek ways of saving money and lowering monthly payments. There are many homeowners who are currently trying to choose between a mortgage refinance and a mortgage modification. Although the terms sound similar, there is a huge difference between these two options for homeowners.

While the process of refinancing a mortgage is not simple, the concept basically is. Lenders and banks have been refinancing loans for centuries. A refinance is when a better loan with lower interest rates and lower monthly payments replaces the homeowner's existing mortgage loan. With the new loan agreement, the homeowner also has a new repayment timeframe because the repayment terms have been extended.

A mortgage modification is a new idea that has been approved by lenders to help homeowners who may not qualify to have their original mortgage loans refinanced. A modification is simply a process where the original terms, including interest rate and monthly payment amount, are changed for a period of time.

Many people do not know which of these options is best for them. The best way to decide is to investigate the requirements for both. Before applying, the homeowner should check their credit score and history. Lenders and banks use a credit score as a major factor in refinancing. Good credit is a must. The homeowner must also have stable employment and income. Refinancing is best for the homeowner who is not suffering from a financial hardship.

By doing so, the homeowner may incur new closing costs and have to have the house appraised again. However, by refinancing, the homeowner will get a lower interest and lower monthly payments which not only will increase the equity in the home but it will increase cash flow.

When a homeowner does not have adequate credit and is suffering from a financial hardship, it is best to consider applying for mortgage modification. This program is the best option to help people keep their homes out of foreclosure. The program is designed to help those how have lost their jobs or the household income has decreased.

As helpful as these two programs may be to homeowners, it is best to know the risks associated with either a mortgage refinance or mortgage modification. Consult with the original lender or a representative from a bank before making the decision. There are also numerous government programs and websites to look at for additional information that could be used to make the final decision

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.