Economic conditions are the chief factor in determining the prevailing interest rate. The government often uses higher interest rates to level inflation out, and to direct consumer spending. When consumers are spending more than they should, prices will rise. Interest rates grow correspondingly higher, and then spending slows down once more. Conversely, a slower economy favors low interest rates to encourage consumers to resume spending. The best time to refinance a home loan is when the economy is slower, with correspondingly low interest rates.

Despite your existing loan and intention to refinance, a good credit rating is still required to obtain the lowest possible interest rate. How good a deal you can acquire will depend heavily on your credit score. It is best to get your credit report from one of the three major credit rate reporting burears before you apply for your refinancing. This allows you to see if there are any errors in this report, have them corrected, and get an accurate idea of your credit score.

The length of time you have had your loan will be important to your lender. It is considered a poor idea to refinance shortly after getting your initial loan. Lenders prefer that you wait at least four to seven years before you consider refinancing your mortgage.

When the market value of housing increases, it can be an excellent time to refinance your mortgage. This is especially true if you are planning to consolidate debt or use some of your home equity. If you have improved your income or increased your credit score, refinancing can allow you to secure a much lower interest rate. Refinancing can also allow you to renegotiate the terms of your home loan.

When refinancing your home loan, be sure to make certain the prevailing interest rate lower than 2% of your current payments. Calculate the costs of refinancing carefully, remembering to add in any penalties or charges that may be accrued in the process. It is important to shop for the best deal when refinancing your home loan, making certain to compare the interest rates, terms, and conditions of the offer before accepting a particular refinancing plan.