Tuesday, September 4, 2007

I Want to Refinance a Mortgage to Consolidate Debt, Should I?

From year to year more people find themselves drowning in debt and can't seem to find a way out. They have a mortgage to repay and the amount of debt they are in is "killing" their credit score. Depending on your status you might want to refinance your mortgage to help you get out of debt, but, not always.

Identifying the Debt Problem before Refinancing

Refinancing is a good idea if the process will not cost you too much and will eventually help you in the long term. Therefore, identifying the main reason that got you into debt is a necessity. If the Mortgage payments are too high and you don't use your credit card that often (or wisely), you may want to refinance to a longer repayment period. Doing so will lower your monthly payments and help you manage your income without paying too much for your mortgage.

If you find that your credit card is the main cause for your debt, refinancing wouldn't be the best. This action would put your house as collateral and if you refinance your mortgage to consolidate debt and can't keep within your monthly budget you will eventually have to give up your house. Therefore, if you do not have a different option, do it wisely and get rid of those credit card problems by making sure you won't use them often.

How do Bad Credit Ratings Effect Your Refinance Quote?

Being labeled as bad credit gives lenders a "bad impression" about your spending habit. This doesn't mean you won't be able to refinance, but, at a relatively high rate. If you want to be offered decent rates, work your way up! Pay your bills on time. After a few months your credit score will improve and you will be welcomed into the prime market will you will be quoted lower rates and receive flexible repayment options.


http://www.articlesbase.com/mortgage-articles/i-want-to-refinance-a-mortgage-to-consolidate-debt-should-i-141613.html