Decision Center

Refinancing

Only refinance when the math clears the closing costs.

A decision path for lowering your rate, shortening your term, or pulling equity out of a home you already own.

Your step-by-step path

  1. 1

    Price the new loan

    Model the new rate and term before anything else.

    Open Mortgage Refinance Calculator
  2. 2

    Add the closing costs

    Refinancing is a new loan with new fees, typically 2–5%.

    Open Closing Costs Calculator
  3. 3

    Find the break-even month

    Divide costs by monthly savings — that is your minimum stay.

    Open Break-Even Calculator
  4. 4

    Test cash-out vs a HELOC

    Pulling equity? Compare a cash-out refinance with a line of credit.

    Open Cash-Out Refinance Calculator
  5. 5

    Consider a recast instead

    A lump-sum recast can lower the payment without new closing costs.

    Open Mortgage Recast Calculator
  6. 6

    Check the payoff impact

    Confirm a lower payment does not quietly add years of interest.

    Open Mortgage Payoff Calculator

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