Buying a home often involves securing a mortgage, a long-term loan designed for real estate. But life changes, and so do financial needs. Enter mortgage refinancing — the process of replacing your current mortgage with a new loan featuring different terms. Homeowners commonly refinance to take advantage of lower interest rates or reduce monthly payments. Refinancing can be a strategic financial move, but you need to know its ins and outs to determine if it's right for you and make an informed decision about mortgage refinancing.
A conventional home mortgage is a type of home loan that is NOT backed or insured by a government agency like the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), but many conventional loans end up being purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Instead, conventional mortgages are typically offered by private lenders such as banks, credit unions, and mortgage companies. These loans often require a higher credit score and a larger down payment compared to government-backed mortgages. Conventional mortgages can be used for various types of 1 - 4 unit homes, including primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. They are a common choice for homebuyers with good credit and financial stability.