When Is the Right Time to Refinance?

November 09, 2022


When you refinance, you are applying for a new mortgage to replace your current one, which will result in a new rate, term and monthly payment. A refinance can help you improve your financial situation — if you refinance at the right time.

Couple standing in front of house

There are several factors you should consider when deciding whether refinancing is right for you right now.

When to Consider Refinancing

You may consider refinancing if any of these scenarios apply to you:

How Mortgage Rates Affect Your Monthly Payment

The most common type of refinance is a no cash-out refinance, in which you are refinancing the remaining balance on your mortgage to a different mortgage rate and possibly a new term.

To understand how lowering your mortgage rate can affect your monthly payment, consider the following example: Refinancing a $200,000 outstanding loan balance into a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage at various rates.

Mortgage RateMortgage Monthly Payment*

5.15%

$1,092

5.29%

$1,109

5.36%

$1,118

5.65%

$1,154

5.75%

$1,167

*Mortgage payments are principal and interest only, based on a $200,000 fully amortizing mortgage. All terms are assumed to be 30 years.

Even small differences in mortgage rates can have a big impact on your monthly payment. If mortgage rates are lower than when you closed on your current mortgage, refinancing could reduce your monthly payments and the total amount of interest you pay over the life of the loan.

The Costs of Refinancing

Although refinancing your mortgage could save you money, both in the long- and short-term, it isn't free. Just as you had closing costs and associated fees when you took out your current mortgage, there are refinancing costs.

The average cost to refinance is approximately $5,000. You should carefully consider how long you plan to stay in the home to ensure the savings from a refinance outweigh the costs.

Refinancing costs are similar to those paid when you purchased your home, including a loan origination fee. There are required services involved, as well as state and local fees that can vary based on where you live.

You should work closely with a lender to discuss refinancing options that fit your financial goals. You can refinance through your existing lender or a new lender. What's most important is that the lender you choose is trustworthy and offers competitive rates and terms.