This subject has been gnawing at me for a while and I’m actually surprised I haven’t written about it here before. In order for the housing market to really start recovering, I believe that the underwriting guidelines need to relax. Whoa–you say, isn’t that what got us into this mess in the first place? Well, I’ll argue that it was more of folks being able to buy more than they could afford (via stated income) that drove up prices and put them into homes where they could never afford the the payments over folks who used home equity by consolidating debts or doing who knows what with the cash (hopefully they banked it…in a safe place). [Read more…]
Refinancing isn’t just about lowering your rate — it’s about improving your overall financial strategy.
In this section, you’ll find educational resources explaining when refinancing makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to evaluate your break-even point. Whether you’re considering a rate-and-term refinance, cash-out refinance, HELOC, renovation mortgage, or reverse mortgage, understanding the numbers and long-term impact is critical.
Topics covered include:
- “Should I refinance?” scenarios
- Cash-out strategies for remodeling or debt consolidation
- Home equity planning
- Recasting and re-amortization
- Renovation loans and ADU financing
- Refinancing with a second mortgage
My approach is always low-pressure and analytical — we look at the math, your goals, and your timeline before making any decisions.
If you’re a homeowner in Washington State wondering whether refinancing could improve your situation, start here.
It’s Not You, It’s Your Neighbors
March 3, 2010 by Leave a Comment
One of the most challenging aspects with refinancing homes in the Seattle area is the appraisal. It doesn’t really matter what you paid for it or how much you love your home. What is probably going to impact the appraised value of your home the most is what your former neighbors have sold their homes for. [Read more…]
A Quick Question: Should I Refi?
July 22, 2009 by 2 Comments
This comment was left on a post I did a while back about how you don’t really skip two payments when you’re refinancing since mortgage interest is accruing. I thought this comment was worthy of a post of it’s own. [Read more…]
Breaking Up is Hard to Do…Especially When You Own a Home Together
July 20, 2009 by Leave a Comment
I’ve written articles before about issues to consider if you’re going through a divorce and have a mortgage…what if you were never married? Couples (or single people) often buy homes together…what if worse case scenario, it doesn’t work out and one party wants to keep the home? [Read more…]
New FHA Limits on Cash-Out Refi’s
March 17, 2009 by Leave a Comment
If you’re considering refinancing and you’re interested in taking cash-out to pay off debts, make home improvements or to eliminate a second mortgage that you did not obtain when you purchased your home; you have more reason than ever to start now. [Read more…]
