Your mortgage doesn't have to stay exactly as it was the day you closed. Refinancing lets you restructure your loan — whether that means adjusting your term, changing your loan structure, or tapping into home equity for other goals.
The right move depends entirely on your current loan, your timeline, and what you're trying to accomplish. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, which is why this is always a conversation first.
Key Benefits
Rate-and-Term Refinance
Restructure your existing loan — potentially adjusting your payment or term — without changing your loan balance beyond closing costs.
Cash-Out Refinance
Access built-up equity for renovations, debt consolidation, or other goals, subject to qualification.
Shorten Your Term
Move from a 30-year to a 15-year term to build equity faster, if it fits your budget.
Remove Mortgage Insurance
Refinancing out of an FHA loan into conventional financing may eliminate ongoing mortgage insurance for qualified borrowers.
Eligibility at a Glance
- Sufficient home equity is typically required, especially for cash-out refinancing.
- Credit, income, and debt-to-income ratio are reassessed as part of underwriting.
- An appraisal is generally required to confirm current home value.
- Whether refinancing makes sense also depends on your current loan terms and how long you plan to stay in the home.
How It Works
A Quick Conversation
We'll talk through your goals, income, and timeline to see how a refinance fits your plans.
Pre-Approval
Once we've gathered your documents, you'll get a clear picture of what you can qualify for — so you can shop with confidence.
From Offer to Closing
I'll guide you through underwriting, appraisal, and closing, keeping you informed at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does it make sense to refinance?
It depends on your goals — lowering your payment, shortening your term, or accessing equity are all valid reasons, but the math is different for everyone. That's worth a real conversation rather than a rule of thumb.
How much equity do I need for a cash-out refinance?
Requirements vary by loan type and lender, but most programs require you to retain a minimum equity cushion after cashing out, subject to qualification.
Will refinancing reset my loan term?
It can, depending on the term you choose. We can also structure a refinance to match your remaining term if resetting the clock doesn't fit your goals.
How much does it cost to refinance in California?
Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the loan amount, though some programs allow you to roll costs into the new loan rather than paying out of pocket.
Can I refinance if I have less than 20% equity?
Often yes, particularly for a rate-and-term refinance, though a cash-out refinance typically has higher equity requirements. It depends on the loan program.