THINKING ABOUT A CASH-OUT REFINANCE?

Cash-out refinancing can be a good idea for many people.

 Mortgages currently have among the lowest interest rates 
of any type of loan.

CALCULATE THE EXACT AMOUNT YOU NEED!

If you are considering a cash-out refinance, you are likely in need of funds for a specific purpose. If you are not sure what that is, it can be helpful to nail that down, so you borrow only as much as you need.

For instance, if you plan to use the cash to consolidate debt, then gather your personal loan and credit card statements or information about other debt obligations and add up what you owe.

If the cash is to be used for renovations, consult with a few contractors to get estimates for both labor and materials ahead of time.

PROS AND CONS OF A CASH-OUT REFINANCE

PROS can include:

- Your cost to borrow could be lower: Cash-out refinancing is often a less expensive form of financing because mortgage refinance rates are typically lower than rates on personal loans (like a home improvement loan) or credit cards. Even with closing costs, this can be especially advantageous when you need a significant amount of money.

- You can improve your credit: If you do a cash-out refinance and use the funds to pay off debt, you could see a boost to your credit score if your credit utilization ratio drops. Credit utilization, or how much you are borrowing compared to what is available to you, is a critical factor in your score.

- You can take advantage of tax deductions: If you plan to use the funds for home improvements and the project meets IRS eligibility requirements, you could take advantage of the interest deduction at tax time.

CONS right now might include:

- Mortgage Rates are higher now, so, this might only make sense right now if you have a lot of credit card debt to consolidate, i.e., higher credit card rates = high interest you are paying each month on multiple credit cards. Might make sense if you need funds for college, home improvement, urgent reserves that might be needed in the near future. Consult with your CPA or financial advisor to work the numbers first before proceeding.

Cash-out refinancing and your taxes

A cash-out refinance might be eligible for mortgage interest tax deductions so long as you are using the money to improve your property. Some acceptable home improvement projects might include:

Adding a swimming pool or hot tub to your backyard

Constructing a new bedroom or bathroom

Erecting a fence around your home

Enhancing your roof to make it more effective against the elements

Replacing windows with storm windows

Setting up a central air conditioning or heating system

Installing a home security system

In general, the improvements should add value to your home or make it more accessible. Check with a tax professional to see whether your project is eligible.

 I am here to answer your questions or run a cash-out scenario that fits your needs. Call Lisa @ 818-359-4145 or email your questions to:  Lisa@trustlendingsolutions.com

Comments