The refinance boom is dead, but why?

As many in the industry know, refinances dwindled in 2014. Freddie Mac recently stated the “official” end to the refinance boom after the second quarter 2014. Freddie Mac goes on to say the purchase market has increased drastically this year, and the industry is now in its first dominated purchase market since 2008.

Realistically, Freddie Mac’s announcement is about a year behind. In early May 2013, interest rates began to rapidly climb. By the time the dust settled in mid June, rates had jumped over 1.25% from the low 3’s to the mid 4’s for a 30 year fixed rate loan. From the beginning of 2013 through the end of May 2013, refinances were over half of my business each month. Since June 2013 through August 2014, refinances only account for 20% of my business.

But why?!? Interest rates are still low. What many do not know is rates improved in 2014 and are currently lower than they were at the end of 2013. Also, some homeowners are still underwater in their homes. Don’t forget that HARP (Homes Affordable Refinance Program) still exists. Qualifying homeowners can refinance regardless of how far underwater they may be.

Rates are not as low as they have been now compared to early 2013. That doesn’t mean you should write off the possibility of refinancing altogether. If your home is in the state of Georgia, shoot me a quick email. We can talk about the pros and cons of refinancing by answering a few questions. You never know until you ask.

Tags: DU Refi Plus, Freddie Open Access, Freddie Relief, HARP, HARP 2, metro Atlanta FHA limit, metro Atlanta mortgage, metro Atlanta mortgage advice, should I refinance