As interest rates reach new highs, it is crucial that homeowners be prepared to renew their mortgage. At Pine, we assist clients in managing this process smoothly and ensure their new loan meets all of their financial goals.
Beginning your mortgage renewal process 4-6 months before its end can make the process less daunting and more straightforward. Here are a few helpful hints to ease this process:
Start Early
Renewal of your mortgage agreement presents an ideal opportunity to make changes. Perhaps you wish to switch from variable to fixed interest rate or increase payment frequency. These choices require careful analysis of your financial circumstances and your budget; professional mortgage advisors are available to provide guidance.
Your lender will notify you approximately 120 days in advance about when to renew, so don’t wait until the last minute to investigate all available options and secure favorable rates and terms. Starting early can help you take full advantage of them and secure better rates and terms.
Understanding the current market and factors affecting future mortgage interest rates will ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your financial circumstances and long-term goals. For instance, early renewal could save money over its term by giving you more control.
Shop Around
Mortgage renewal can be much more than a bureaucratic formality; it provides an opportunity to assess your financial position, potentially secure more favorable rates, and save thousands. To take full advantage of this chance, be sure to give yourself plenty of time for research, shop around for rates, and prepare all required documents.
Mortgage brokers or financial advisors can provide invaluable insights, help compare rates, and guide the entire renewal process with ease. Consulting these professionals is sure to make the experience less daunting while guaranteeing you have access to the most favorable terms on your renewal mortgage loan.
Never forget the role credit scores play in renewing a mortgage loan. For this reason, it’s wise to begin shopping at least four months in advance of when your existing term ends so you can work on improving both your credit score and debt-to-income ratio while working to find a suitable new loan product. Also note that hard credit inquiries could have an adverse impact on your rating.
Negotiate
As part of the mortgage renewal process, you have an opportunity to negotiate terms that best align with your financial goals and save money over time. By properly researching, preparing, and researching thoroughly beforehand you may even be able to save yourself some cash and secure an even better financial future for yourself and your loved ones.
Your lender should send you a mortgage renewal slip approximately 4-6 months prior to the end of your current mortgage term, offering new rates and terms as an incentive.
Although you may feel obliged to accept what’s offered from your current lender, don’t be intimidated into accepting their terms without asking around first and negotiating. By shopping around and comparing offers from multiple lenders you might even find one with lower rates or no mortgage fees altogether! Also be sure to review all payment terms thoroughly including amortization periods and prepayment penalties to make informed decisions regarding your financial future.
Make the Decision
Signing your renewal papers means your mortgage will continue with its existing terms and interest rate – this may be easier, but could cost thousands over time.
Renewal of your mortgage should not be treated like just another bureaucratic process, and managed properly can lead to significant savings and more suitable terms that reflect your current financial status. Plan early, shop around, and negotiate in order to make renewal work in your favor.
No matter the decision you make, whether to remain with your current lender or switch, consulting a licensed mortgage broker is often the best approach. Although switching lenders might require prepayment penalties and stress tests, you should weigh these upfront costs against long-term savings potential when weighing your options – you might just be surprised what surprises lie in store!
CloverMortgage renewal services take the guesswork out оf navigating the market, ensuring you land the best rates and terms for your new mortgage. Don’t settle for your current lender’s offer – contact CloverMortgage today and find your happily ever after rate.
