Refinance

Financing a Mortgage in Calgary

Refinancing your mortgage in Calgary can have many benefits such as lowering your payments, accessing equity, or removing a borrower from the existing mortgage. Many people consider this at the end of their term to avoid payout penalties; whether renewing or refinancing your mortgage, we’ll help you understand the pros/cons to each option.  

The Pros, Cons, and Possibilities of Mortgage Refinance in Calgary

Thinking about refinancing your mortgage in Calgary? It’s a move many homeowners are considering, and for good reason. Whether you’re eyeing lower interest rates, dreaming of a home makeover, or simply looking to ease your monthly budget, mortgage refinance in Calgary can offer some enticing benefits. But it’s not without a few drawbacks—there are also some things you should watch out for. Here’s a straightforward look at the pros, cons, and what you can do when you refinance your mortgage:

Snag Lower Interest Rates: One of the biggest draws of mortgage refinance in Calgary is the chance to obtain a lower interest rate. If rates have dropped since you first took out your mortgage, refinancing could mean lower monthly payments and big savings over time. This is a potential opportunity to save some cash if you’re paying more than you need to.

Debt Consolidation: Do you have other debts like credit cards or car loans? A mortgage refinance in Calgary can help you roll those into your mortgage, often at a lower interest rate. This can simplify your finances by turning multiple payments into one and potentially save you money on interest.

Tap Into Home Equity: Refinancing can also let you tap into your home’s equity. If you’ve built up some value in your property, you can use that for home renovations, investments, or even big expenses like education or medical bills. It’s a handy way to get access to cash without selling your home.

Adjust Loan Terms: A mortgage refinance gives you the flexibility to change your loan terms. Whether you want to switch from a variable rate to a fixed rate or shorten or extend your loan term, refinancing can help tailor your mortgage to fit your current needs and future goals.

Boost Cash Flow: Lower monthly payments from refinancing can improve your cash flow. This means you’ve got extra cash to put towards savings, investments, or just enjoy a bit more financial breathing room. For many in Calgary, this improved cash flow is a major perk.

Closing Costs: Let’s not sugarcoat it—refinancing comes with closing costs, like appraisal fees, legal fees, and other expenses. Some lenders cover these, so ask us how we can minimize these costs (even though we’ll already be working to accomplish this for you).

Extended Loan Amortization: While refinancing can lower your monthly payments, it can also extend your loan amortization. This means you might end up paying more in interest over the life of the loan, even if your rate is lower. It’s worth considering whether the short-term savings are worth the long-term costs.

Rates Compared To Renewal/Transfer: Often rates are slightly higher for a refinance versus a transfer/switch at renewal.

Reduced Home Equity: If you’re pulling out equity from your home, you’re lowering the residual value you have. This can be a concern if home values drop or if you plan to sell soon. It’s important to think about how this might impact your long-term plans.

Home Renovations: Refinancing can be a great way to fund home improvements. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, adding a new bathroom, or finishing the basement, a mortgage refinance in Calgary can give you the cash you need to make your home just the way you want it and increase the value of your home.

Investment Opportunities: Accessing home equity through refinancing opens up a world of investment possibilities. You could buy rental properties, invest in stocks, or even start a new business. It’s a chance to diversify your financial portfolio and potentially boost your wealth.

Retirement Savings: As you near retirement, refinancing can help ensure your financial stability. Lowering your mortgage payments or accessing equity can provide extra funds for retirement savings, travel, or other retirement plans, giving you a more comfortable financial cushion.

Emergency Funds: Life can be unpredictable, and having access to cash for emergencies is always a good idea. Refinancing a mortgage can give you a financial safety net, whether you’re facing unexpected medical bills, job loss, or other urgent needs.

Eco-Friendly Upgrades: If you’re into sustainable living, refinancing can help fund green upgrades like solar panels or energy-efficient appliances. It’s a way to make your home more eco-friendly, cut down on utility costs, and boost your home’s value.

There are many benefits to refinancing a mortgage in Calgary, from lower interest rates and debt consolidation to accessing home equity and improving your cash flow; it’s important to be aware of the cost-benefit relationship. We will help you consider your financial goals and the current market conditions so you can make a smart decision about whether a mortgage refinance is the right move for you. With the right approach, refinancing can be a powerful tool to help you achieve your financial objectives and make the most of your home investment.