Mortgage Refinance vs Renewal: Which Option is Better?

In Canada, getting a 25 or 30-year mortgage is perhaps the most secure path to homeownership. Unlike in other countries, where the longest loan term can reach 50 years, Canada’s maximum term is only ten years. This means mortgagors will have to renew their loans at least once or decide to refinance, to fulfill their obligations.

It is important to understand the difference between renewal and refinance, as one approach may leave you worse off financially. Taking out a mortgage is probably going to be the biggest check you will write every month, so it is best to do research and pit the benefits against the drawbacks before renewing or refinancing.

Mortgage Refinance vs Renewal

When a loan term ends, mortgagors usually opt to renew. A mortgage renewal is when a new agreement is formed to extend terms with your mortgage holder. For instance, if at the end of your ten-year deal and you have not fully paid off your loan, you can simple renew and continue payment using the previously agreed upon rate. Many find this easier to do, as most banks do not make you qualify again, particularly if you pay your dues on time.

Some homeowners, however, choose to mortgage refinance to pay off debt. This is different from loan renewal. In mortgage refinance loans, your current deal is swapped for a different one, preferably with a lower rate. Refinancing allows mortgagors to replace an unsatisfactory loan with a more reasonable one. You do not need to wait for the end of your loan period to apply. Lenders can help you with refinancing your mortgage prior to then.

Renewing Your Mortgage

Most home mortgages are paid in full after roughly 30 years, with payments on a monthly basis. Since the terms are smaller and shorter, mortgagors have to either renew or obtain a different lender. The process is simple enough. The mortgage company will send you renewal papers that you have to sign in order to create a new loan. Your new mortgage is based on your outstanding balance at the time of renewal.

Most mortgagors tend to take out the longest mortgage term possible when interest rates are low. This, however, is not always the best option. There are several considerations you must keep in mind before a mortgage renewal. Mortgage holders usually allow mortgagors four months to decide if they want to renew. Take this time to ponder on your financial situation. You may want to choose a mortgage with a higher payment so you can pay it off sooner.

Renewing Your Mortgage

Determine Current Financial Goals

Before signing a mortgage renewal slip, consider your financial goals. Be sure that your new term suits your current and future needs. If your previous mortgage is a five-year fixed rate, the renewal will likely be the same. You may opt to change the terms if you are planning to downsize or there is a huge chance of moving to a different city in the next years. Choose a shorter deal. You will have to pay higher monthly fees, but with a lower interest rate.

Secure Better Mortgage Rate

Even if you are busy, it is best to take the time to review your renewal terms. Lenders make it easy for mortgagors to sign up again, offering discounts that are not necessarily the lowest rates available. You must learn to negotiate for a better rate. Mortgage holders will offer you one if they want your business. Use a broker and ask for a rate hold. This will protect you from interest rate increases for up to 120 days. You can also shop around and consider switching providers.

Switch Lenders

If you fail to negotiate a better offer with your current mortgage holder, it may be time to consider a different provider. Start to shop around early, several months before your mortgage maturity date. Once you have decided on one, you have to submit an application as if you are applying for a new mortgage. Processing usually takes a week, so it is best to leave leeway or you will be stuck with your current lender for your next mortgage term.

Mortgage Refinance

Between mortgage refinance vs renewal, some mortgagors prefer refinancing, especially if their current home loan is no longer working for them. With refinancing, you can replace your current loan with one offering better interest rates that make payments more sustainable in the long run. The process is similar when you took your current mortgage. First, you must determine your desired loan feature. Are you after lower interest rates or do you want to extend your loan term?

Once you have established the specific rate or term length that you want, start looking for qualified providers. Secure at least four loan quotes you have plenty of options. Settle on a lender and apply for a loan and wait for it to be approved. You must carefully review the terms and fees to avoid unpleasant surprises. Mortgage refinancing is not free. You have to pay fees to your new lender, including appraisal, inspection, origination, and closing costs.

Mortgage Refinance

Perks of Refinancing

To recap mortgage refinance definition, it is paying off your current loan debt by swapping your current mortgage for a new one. You need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your current and new loan to determine whether it is worth the cost of changing mortgage. Check how much you will save over time and how long you will regain the up-front costs of restructuring loans. The following are some of the mortgage refinance benefits.

You can secure a lower interest rate when you refinance a mortgage, depending on the market conditions. This is why mortgagors prefer mortgage refinance vs renewal. If your credit score is good, it also makes you eligible for mortgage refinance loans with great terms. Refinancing also makes sense if you plan to stay in your home for a long time. If you have a fixed-rate loan, it can help you avoid high-risk mortgages.

When Refinancing is a Bad Idea

There are conditions when choosing mortgage refinance to pay off debt is not the best option for you. You must avoid refinancing if your lifetime loan costs will be higher than with your old loan. Do not be swayed by lower monthly payment for mortgage refinance loans. This may save you money now, but it will cost you more in the long run.

Refinancing is also not good if you plan to move shortly. The money you saved from changing loans may not be sufficient to recoup the costs if you will leave after only a few years. You may also want to doublethink mortgage refinance if your new loan imposes pre-payment penalties since they will only add to your total loan costs.