Useful Tips

FHA Streamline Refinance

What it is: The FHA Streamline Refinance is a mortgage refinance option offered through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). It's designed for homeowners who already have an FHA loan and want to refinance to a lower interest rate with less paperwork and fewer requirements.

Key Features:

• Reduced Paperwork: As the name suggests, the process is streamlined. Borrowers don't need to submit as much documentation (like income verification or a home appraisal in many cases).
• No Credit Check Required: In most cases, your credit score won't be a factor. The focus is on your payment history on your current FHA loan.
• Lower Monthly Payments: By obtaining a lower interest rate or changing the term of the loan, monthly payments can be reduced.
• MIP (Mortgage Insurance Premium) Refund: If you have paid MIP on your current FHA loan, you might be eligible for a refund that can be applied to the MIP for the new loan.

Who it's for: Homeowners with an existing FHA mortgage who have made their payments on time and want to lower their monthly payments or switch from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate loan.

VA IRRRL (Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan)

What it is: Also known as the VA Streamline Refinance, the VA IRRRL is a refinancing option designed for veterans and active-duty service members who currently have a VA loan. It's intended to reduce the interest rate on an existing VA loan or convert an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) to a fixed-rate mortgage.

Key Features:

• No Appraisal or Credit Underwriting: In many cases, there's no need for a new appraisal of your home or a credit check.
• Lower Interest Rates: The primary purpose is to get a lower interest rate, which can significantly reduce monthly payments.
• No Out-of-Pocket Costs: All costs can be included in the new loan, meaning there's often no immediate, out-of-pocket expense.
• Funding Fee Flexibility: There's a funding fee, but it's lower than that for a first-time VA loan and can be rolled into the loan amount.

Who it's for: Veterans, active-duty service members, and possibly surviving spouses who have an existing VA loan and are looking to reduce their monthly payments or stabilize their interest rate.

Things to Consider:

• Closing Costs: Both options may have closing costs that can sometimes be rolled into the loan, increasing the overall loan amount.
• Net Tangible Benefit: Borrowers must demonstrate a net tangible benefit, meaning the refinance should make financial sense (like lowering the interest rate or changing the loan term).
• Lender Differences: Not all lenders offer the same rates or terms, so it's beneficial to shop around.