Is 'Buy Now, Refinance Later' Worth the Risk? A Witty Guide to Mortgage Rates

Posted by Nora Lopez on Monday, May 1, 2023 at 8:55:12 AM By Nora Lopez / May 1, 2023 Comment

Are you discouraged by high mortgage rates? You may have heard the advice to "buy now and refinance later" from your mortgage lender, real estate agent, or friend. While it seems like a simple solution to stretch your budget now and refinance when mortgage rates drop, is it really a win-win?

Let's examine this strategy from all angles to determine if it can help or hurt you down the line when buying a home.

Mortgage rates can be one of the biggest long-term financial decisions you make in your life. You want to ensure you get a good deal, and that often means finding smart ways to minimize your interest payments while also paying enough attention to have a secure loan. The idea of 'buy now, refinance later' is becoming increasingly popular as people look for alternatives to traditional mortgage loans. But with fluctuating markets and unpredictable changes in lending policies, it's important to consider carefully whether this particular tactic is likely to lead to success or failure down the road. In this post, we'll explore both sides of the debate: Is 'buy now, refinance later' worth the risk? Read on for an entertaining and informative guide on mortgage rates!

Mortgage Rates Skyrocketing: Brace Yourself!

Recent numbers from Freddie Mac reveal that the average 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is currently at a staggering 6.73%, up from 3.85% just a year ago. Persistent inflation is to blame, and the future of mortgage rates is uncertain.

Real estate expert Joy Aumann cautions that predicting future rates is challenging, given the complex market factors at play. While some believe that rates might remain stable (or even ease up), others argue that inflationary pressures and monetary policies will keep pushing them higher. Get ready to buckle up, folks – the ride might be a bumpy one.

Get Hitched to Your Home, Go Steady with the Rates!

You may have heard this piece of advice before, and it's true - when you buy a home, you're investing in a better financial future. But that doesn't mean you should settle for high interest rates. In fact, some mortgage lenders are offering homebuyers a *free* refinance at a lower rate down the line. That's right, you may be able to lower your monthly payments without paying those pesky refinancing fees. Don Chambers, a real estate investor based in Georgia, recommends taking advantage of this promotion to get the home you want now, while making room in your budget for the future. It's the perfect match!

Can You Afford to Wait for Mortgage Rates to Drop?

As much as we all wish we could predict the future, it's impossible to know for certain if or when mortgage rates will drop. But if you're considering a "buy now, refinance later" strategy, you'll want to know how much rates need to drop before it makes financial sense.

Typically, a 1% rate drop is enough to warrant a refinance. But according to Troy Shaffer, founder of Blu Corporate Housing in Phoenix, a drop of 2% might be necessary for a significant savings in monthly payments.

However, keep in mind that for some buyers, rates may never reach a low enough point to make a refinance worth it. It all depends on your unique loan scenario. So, make sure to consult with a trusted mortgage professional before making any big decisions. Don't miss out on potential savings, but also don't wait too long for the perfect rate drop. Find the balance that works for you and your finances.

Refinancing: Size Does Matter

According to Jennifer Beeston, Guaranteed Rate Mortgage's senior vice president of lending, if you're considering refinancing a loan, the size of it matters. You'll need to see more significant rate reductions on a $100,000 loan than on a $1 million loan to make refinancing a viable choice.

Before you decide to proceed with refinancing, you'll also have to ensure your loan type qualifies. It may be easy to refinance some loans, while it might be next to impossible to refinance them without an equity gain.

Are you a military veteran? Then refinancing your loans should be a breeze! Military veteran loans don't need any appraisal-which can save you a lot of extra fees. Jennifer Beeston advises anyone considering refinancing their loans to keep these points in mind.

Refinancing with Low Down Payment Loans Made Easier

Refinancing your mortgage can be a tricky process, especially when it comes to low down payment loan options. A 3% down conventional loan or a low-down-payment jumbo loan might sound like great options, but when it comes to refinancing, things get a bit more complicated.

According to a mortgage expert, refinancing with a low down payment loan requires either an increase in your home's value or cash to meet loan-to-value guidelines. This makes it crucial to have a conversation with your lender about your future plans.

So, if you're hoping to make refinancing a smoother process, make sure to talk to your lender and consider the potential value of your home before signing on to a low down payment loan option. Don't let the fine print catch you off guard – plan ahead and secure your financial future.

Refinancing: Crunching the Numbers on Fees and Costs

When it comes to mortgage refinancing, there's more to consider than just the interest rate. You also need to factor in the additional fees associated with refinancing. These include closing costs, such as appraisal fees, title services, and attorney fees. In fact, buyers can expect to pay 2% to 5% of the loan principal amount in closing costs.

So before you jump at an interest rate drop, take a moment to do the math. You want to make sure that the savings from refinancing outweigh the fees and costs. Don't get caught up in a lower interest rate without considering the bigger financial picture.

Don't Make This Mistake When Buying a House

History has taught us a valuable lesson: buying a house you can't afford is never a good idea. It's essential to take a step back and evaluate whether you can afford the house without relying on refinancing in the future.

As mortgage broker Chambers advises, "If a refi is essential, then you shouldn't buy the house. There's no guarantee that rates will decrease over the life of the loan."

To ensure you make an informed decision, keep an eye on mortgage rates and consult with a mortgage broker before closing on the perfect house. Protect your financial future and make a smart investment.

Ultimately, the decision to refinance lies with the homeowner – the only thing you can do is to assess the risks and benefits from a personal perspective and make an informed choice. It’s always best to discuss all of your options with potential lenders, as well as a financial planner if you are feeling overwhelmed by everything that is involved. Having all of your financial knowledge in order will not only help you make smart decisions but could also save you time and money in the long run! Even if pursuing a “Buy Now, Refinance Later” mortgage route is forward-thinking, it isn’t necessary for everyone. Evaluating personal goals and current market conditions should be your guide when deciding whether or not this path is right for you. Always remember that decisions regarding mortgages should be made wisely so that they won’t lead to any regrets down the road!