Our Blog -- Investments, Mortgages and Advice

Interest rates are very attractive right now and some people think it is a great time to pull some money out of their house.  Here are some things to know if you are considering this.

Terms for cash out refinancing aren’t as good as straight rate and term refinancing. Today, most lenders charge an extra 1% on the interest rate for a cash-out refinancing. Lenders also put restrictions on the amount of money you can pull out. Most lenders want to see the borrowers retain at least 35% to 40% of equity in their house. The best rates are for loans where the LTV is 60% (40% equity).

The amount you will be able to pull out will depend on the appraisal and this process has changed for some lenders in the past year. Many lenders now require that they order the appraisal. As a result, many appraisers today are chosen based on their fees and not their knowledge of the area. So, in general, appraisals today are coming in on the lower side.