Mortgage Refinance Information - Mortgage Refinancing When Interest Rates Rise

Most homeowners think about lower interest rates when seeking mortgage refinance information online. Over the last year more and more homeowners have been trading in their mortgages for fixed interest rate loans with interest rates as much as two percent higher. Why on earth would anyone refinance with a higher interest rate? The trend in mortgage refinancing these days is trade in your risky adjustable rate mortgage for the security of a fixed interest rate loan with predictable payment amounts. If you are still on the fence about trading in your Adjustable Rate Mortgage, here is mortgage refinancing information to help you make an informed decision.

Why Take a Higher Interest Rate?

Everyone knows interest rates have been rising steadily for the past two years. These stair-stepper increases have been causing headaches for nearly one out four homeowners in the United States. Many of these homeowners used risky interest only and option adjustable rate mortgages to finance their homes. Many homebuyers turned to these loans because they could qualify easily, regardless of past credit problems. These mortgage loans came with ultra easy payments and no worries for the new homeowners. What many of these homeowners failed to realize is their payments were based on an introductory interest rate. When the introductory period ends their payments skyrocket. These risky adjustable rate mortgages are the reason mortgage foreclosures are at record highs in the United States.

When mortgage interest rates are rising and the general consensus is that they will continue to rise, fixed rate loans are a smart choice. Adjustable Rate Mortgages can still be used effectively as a short term fix due to the lower introductory period; however, once the lender begins adjusting the interest rate these loans lose their luster. Hybrid mortgage loans are an excellent way to take advantage of lower introductory interest rates. Take a 5/1 hybrid loan for example, this loan carries a low fixed introductory interest rate for the first five years. After the introductory period the lender will adjust the loan every year. If you think moving could be a possibility within five years, this hybrid loan could save you a lot of money.

Additional Sources for Mortgage Refinance Information

Doing your homework and researching mortgage refinance information before refinancing your loan will save you thousands of dollars and many future headaches. You can find more mortgage refinance information, including common mistakes to avoid by registering for a free mortgage guidebook.

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