Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Mortgage Refinance Experience

By Madeline Zidan

Mortgage Refinance on a commercial property can be tricky, but it is possible to prepare yourself by becoming very familiar with how the process works, what to beware of and some of the terminology, this will help you understand what to expect at the same time increasing your knowledge.

Without some familiarity pertaining to a Mortgage Refinance it could be difficult to understand where to start. Without some experience in financing, whether it's on an initial loan or a Residential Loan, these terms may seem like foreign language or somewhat silly for such a serious matter. A few examples would be: Arm, Balloon, Bridge Loans, Mezzanine Loans, Conduit or CMBS Loans etc.

Long before I became involved in Real Estate, I would hear terms mentioned in regards to Residential and Commercial Loans and Mortgage Refinance options, ARMS, Balloons etc. I was just getting started in this industry and had absolutely no experience in any real estate or financing, so these terms were like a foreign language. I realized very quickly that without thorough knowledge of the terminology it is hard to understand what direction you will go.

Long before you ever dreamed of a Mortgage Refinance you had to make sure you can handle such an obligation with the original commercial loan by speaking to your Financial Advisor and your Accountant about how long your finances could carry the loan if things don't go as planned.

It is very important to look at how closing costs will affect the equity you have been building over the years. Your situation is a little different and you will need to approach the Mortgage Refinance accordingly. You will now start looking at possible Prepayment Penalties, Cash Out Proceeds, and maybe you want to Inject the money you cash out into another property or update your current property, what is the Discounted Cash Flow, Current vs. Proposed Loan to Value Ratio.

Do a simple break even analysis to compare costs of other lenders versus your existing bank. If they know you are looking for a Mortgage Refinance, your current bank may offer to reset the loan.

You will find out some things are a little different when it comes to Mortgage Refinance. The terminology is a little bit different. You start looking at possible Cash Out Proceeds, and maybe you want to inject the money you cash out into another property or use it to remodel the current property, what is the Discounted Cash Flow, Current vs. Proposed, will you have prepayment penalties?

Remember, knowledge is power, stay informed by reading and researching your topic. Be very clear about your reasons for Mortgage Refinance so you won't make mistakes that could cost you more in the long run. - 15432

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