As posted on The Mortgage Blog in late 2014, interest rates are still around their lowest levels from 2014. That’s great news for home owners who are upside-down on their loans.
The Home Affordable Refinance Program, or HARP, is entering its final year (well, unless Congress extends the program again). HARP allows homeowners who are underwater to refinance into a lower rate. Combine a loan program for underwater homeowners with low rates, and it is a win for homeowners. How do you qualify for HARP?
If the home was purchased and securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac before June 1, 2009, AND the monthly mortgage payments have been paid on time for the past 12 months, you probably qualify for HARP. It doesn’t matter if you have a second mortgage or pay monthly mortgage insurance on your loan, you could still qualify for HARP.
You might be thinking… “I’m really underwater. I can’t qualify.” Just know homeowners can be way, WAY underwater. There is no limit.
Also, homeowners who did not have private mortgage insurance (known as PMI) on their loan initially can still refinance even without 20% equity in their home today. There would not be PMI on their new loan.
If you missed the historically low rates of 2012 and 2013, you may want to act quickly. Rates are unlikely to return to those historic low levels, and they at the just about the lowest levels seen since May 2013.
To get started, contact me to talk about the pros and cons of HARP. Together, we can determine if you qualify for the HARP program. It’s the best way to lower monthly payments when you owe more than your home is worth. Don’t miss this opportunity!
