Mortgage Refinance Savings Calculator
Should You Refinance Your Mortgage?
Refinancing a mortgage involves replacing your existing home loan with a new one, typically to take advantage of lower interest rates or to change the loan term. While it can save you thousands of dollars over the life of the loan, it is not always the right move for every homeowner.
How to Calculate Your Refinance Savings
To determine if refinancing is beneficial, you need to compare your current monthly principal and interest payment with the projected new payment. Use the calculator above by entering your current remaining balance and the new loan terms offered by your lender.
Example Scenario:
Imagine you have a $300,000 balance at a 6.5% interest rate with 25 years remaining. Your current payment is approximately $2,025. If you refinance into a new 30-year loan at 5.25%, your new payment would be roughly $1,656. This results in a monthly saving of $369. However, if your closing costs are $6,000, you must stay in the home for at least 17 months just to "break even" on the costs of the refinance.
Understanding the Break-Even Point
The "Break-Even Point" is the most critical metric in refinancing. It represents the number of months it will take for your monthly savings to cover the upfront closing costs. If you plan to sell your home or move before reaching the break-even point, refinancing could actually cost you more than you save.
Key Factors to Consider
- Closing Costs: These usually range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount.
- Loan Term: Switching from a 15-year to a 30-year loan will lower your payment but might increase the total interest paid over time.
- Equity: Lenders typically require at least 20% equity for the best rates and to avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).