The real estate market in Virginia has gone through a significant shift in the past 10 years. Homeowners have seen a dramatic increase in their home values. Whether you live in the affluent neighborhoods of northern virginia or the Richmond, most Virginia homeowners have 10%, 20% or 30% equity in their homes.

Virginia Homeowners are refinancing their existing mortgage loans to take advantage of the equity in their homes to finance home improvement projects, consolidate debts, pay for their children’s education, invest in real estate or treat themselves to a much needed vacation.

The amount of money that homeowners can draw or cash out during the refinance process depends on the equity in their home. Some homeowners draw $10,000, while others draw $100,000 or more. This is not surprising as some virginia homeowners have seen their home values jump from $300,000 to $600,000 in the span of 5 years or less.

Points to consider when refinancing your mortgage loan as a cash out refinance or second mortgage home equity loan:

1. As with all big decisions refinancing requires you to do some research. The most important aspect of getting the best loan terms, is to shop around for the lowest refinance loan rate. This kind of shopping should not cost you any money. A reputable lender can offer no cost refinance loan quotse.

2. Once you get your loan quotes, compare mortgage terms such as the interest rates, type of loan (fixed or adjustable), prepayment penalties, points, fees, etc.

3. Ensure that you can still afford your new mortgage loan with some money to spare at the end of the month.

By: Lisa Jones