SoFi

Reasons for paying off your mortgage early include eliminating monthly mortgage payments, saving money in interest, reducing financial stress, and more. But, just because you can pay your mortgage off early doesn’t necessarily mean you should.

Should You Consider an Early Mortgage Payoff?

It can be tempting to rush to pay off your home loan when you have the ability to, especially if you’ve struggled with debt management. And why wouldn’t you want to pay off your mortgage? Getting rid of debt could potentially increase cash flow.

When it comes to your mortgage loan, paying it off early depends on your unique financial situation and goals — there is no one right answer.

Reasons Not to Pay Your Mortgage Off Early

While it may seem like there are no reasons not to pay off your mortgage early, that is actually not the case. Here are a few reasons why it may not be a good idea to pay off your mortgage loan early:

You Have a Competitive Interest Rate

Unless you’ve reached all of your financial goals, it may not make the most sense to pay off your mortgage early when you have a competitive interest rate.

For example, if you are saving to send your child to college or you’re trying to rebuild your emergency fund after a home repair, those might take priority.

You also could possibly earn more by investing your money as opposed to paying off your loan. If that’s the case, it doesn’t make sense to pay off your mortgage early unless you’re wanting the peace of mind that comes with no mortgage debt. Investment decisions should be based on specific financial needs, goals, and risk appetite.

You Would Have Nothing Left in Savings

If you only have enough in the bank to cover your mortgage, it is not advisable to pay it off. Having an emergency fund is necessary and may take priority over having no mortgage payment.

You Might Face a Prepayment Penalty

Make sure to review your mortgage terms closely. Some lenders charge an early payoff penalty, usually a percentage of the principal balance at the time of payoff.

You Might Miss Out on the Mortgage Tax Deduction

For many people who itemize, having a mortgage helps push their itemized deductions higher than the standard deduction. It’s worth discussing the mortgage tax deduction with your accountant or other tax professional before you resolve to pay your mortgage off early.

You Have Other High-interest Debt

If you have other high-interest debt, such as credit card debt, personal loans, or student loans, it may make sense to pay those off in full prior to paying your mortgage off early. Home loans typically have the lowest interest rates of other forms of debt and are considered “good debt” by lenders. It only makes sense to pay off your mortgage early if you have no other debts in your name.

When an Early Payoff May Make Sense

On the flip side, there are some situations when paying off a mortgage early might make more sense than waiting. Reasons to pay off your mortgage early may include:

You’ve Met All of Your Financial Goals

If your emergency savings account is right where you feel it needs to be and you’re diligently contributing to your retirement accounts, there may be no reason not to pay off your mortgage early.

Another idea, however, is to purchase an investment property instead of paying off your mortgage early. This can create a monthly cash flow in addition to the value of the property (hopefully) appreciating over the years.

You’re Interested in Being 100% Debt-Free

Sometimes, just the idea of having loan payments can be mentally taxing, even if you’re in a good place financially. Money is not just about numbers for many; it’s also about emotions.

If paying off your mortgage loan early relieves anxiety because it’s helping you become debt-free, then that might be something to consider.

Of course, reflecting on why you want to become debt-free is important when thinking about paying your mortgage off. If, for example, it’s because you’re approaching retirement and will no longer be getting a steady paycheck, it might make sense to pay off your mortgage.

Recommended: How to Pay Off a 30-Year Mortgage in 15 Years

Ways to Pay Off a Mortgage Early or Faster

If you’ve decided it makes sense for your financial situation to pay off your mortgage early, here’s how you can do it:

Lump sum. The easiest way to pay off your mortgage early is by making one lump-sum payment to your mortgage lender. Contact your lender prior to making the payment so you can make sure you’re paying exactly what you owe, including any possible prepayment fees.

Extra payments. You could potentially pay more toward your mortgage principal each month if you got a raise at work or you’ve trimmed some fat in your budget.

If you make extra payments toward your mortgage, it could lead to paying off the loan faster than if you were just to make the set payment each month. Make sure to contact your lender prior to making extra payments, though, so you know the extra amount is being applied toward the principal amount only, not the principal and interest.

Refinancing. Another option for paying off your mortgage early is refinancing. Refinancing your mortgage means replacing your current mortgage with a new one, ideally with a better rate and term.

If you shorten your loan term from 30 years to 15 years, for example, it may increase your monthly payments but in turn allow you to pay your mortgage off faster. Home loans with shorter terms often come with lower interest rates, too, so more of your monthly payments will be applied to the loan’s principal balance.

The Takeaway

Should you pay off your mortgage early? Maybe. If your retirement fund is fully-funded, you have no other high-interest debts, and you’re interested in becoming 100% debt-free, it may make sense to pay off your mortgage early. However, if you do not have a fully funded retirement and emergency savings account or you could make more money by investing rather than paying off your mortgage debt, it could be best to hold off on paying your mortgage off early.

One way to save on interest and possibly pay off your mortgage early is by refinancing. Refinancing can allow you to lower your interest rate and shorten your loan term, if desired.

SoFi offers competitive mortgage refinance rates and flexible loan terms. Checking your rate takes just a few minutes and will not impact your credit score.*

*Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SOHL0623058

A mortgage contingency allows homebuyers to exit the purchase contract without legal repercussions should they be unable to secure financing by the agreed-upon deadline.

Consider this scenario: You found a gem of a home that many others are eyeballing. You make an offer and cough up earnest money to show that you mean business. You’ve been preapproved for a mortgage, so financing seems a shoo-in — until you hit a snag. That’s when a mortgage contingency becomes important.

If you’re unable to obtain financing by the deadline, you can walk away from the purchase agreement and have your earnest money returned.

Some non-cash buyers consider waiving the mortgage contingency to make their offer more competitive in a hot market, but of course, that involves risk. Here’s the scoop on the financing contingency.

What Is a Mortgage Contingency?

Should something unexpected happen, like a job loss or the inability to sell an existing home, a mortgage contingency clause in the purchase agreement allows buyers to back out of the contract and have their earnest money returned. An earnest money deposit isn’t small potatoes for anyone, but that’s especially true for those who are competing against multiple offers: Buyers might lay down as much as 10% of the home’s sale price as a good-faith deposit.

A mortgage contingency also protects both buyers and sellers from uncertainty in the real estate transaction. It’s one of several contingencies that buyers might include in the contract when the property listing status changes to contingent but not yet pending.


💡 Quick Tip: You deserve a more zen mortgage. Look for a mortgage lender who’s dedicated to closing your loan on time.

The Mortgage Contingency Clause

The mortgage contingency clause gives the buyers a time frame to go shopping for a mortgage or move beyond preapproval. Though the clause may vary from contract to contract, most will allow buyers to back out of the contract if they do not directly cause the financing to fail. The earnest money held in escrow is returned to the buyer.

Even when buyers have mortgage preapproval, financing can fall through at the last minute. This is the legal “out” if that happens.

Recommended: What Is the Difference Between Pending and Contingent Offers?

How Mortgage Contingency Works

Buyers find a home and make an offer and the seller’s real estate agent or attorney draws up a contract for the purchase of the property. Many buyers include in their offer a mortgage contingency, which has a deadline. If the sellers agree to this contingency (and other conditions of the offer), they sign the contract. The mortgage contingency becomes legally binding at this point.

Next, buyers complete a full application with the lender of their choice. The lender will review the buyer’s finances in-depth, and mortgage underwriting will make a final decision on whether or not to approve the loan.

If the mortgage is denied, the buyers are able to exit the contract and have their earnest money returned when a mortgage contingency is included.

In the absence of a mortgage contingency, the sellers would be able to keep the buyers’ earnest money and put the property back on the market to find another buyer.

How Long Does a Contingency Contract Last?

When buyers submit an offer, they will suggest a deadline for mortgage financing alongside the mortgage contingency. Typically, the time frame to secure a loan is 30 to 60 days.

Mortgage Contingency Clause Elements

Some mortgage contingency clauses are simple and give the buyers absolute discretion in obtaining financing acceptable to them. In others, financing is more specifically described. This variance depends on your contract and state law. Elements can include a mortgage contingency deadline, type of mortgage, amount needed, closing fees, and interest rate.

Mortgage Contingency Deadline

The mortgage contingency deadline is how long the buyer has to find approval for a mortgage. The deadline is often suggested by the buyer in the contract when an offer is made on the property.

When the seller signs the offer, the contingencies become legally binding and must be followed in good faith. Should a buyer need an extension of the deadline, an addendum must be submitted to and agreed upon by the seller.

Type of Mortgage

There are many different types of mortgages a buyer can use to purchase property, so while one loan may not work for a buyer’s situation, another may. Buyers may have the option of selecting a conventional or government-insured loan, a jumbo loan, a mortgage with a term of 30, 15, or other years, or an interest-only mortgage. A lender can help walk buyers through their options.

Amount Needed

A mortgage contingency clause can also designate the amount needed to secure the loan. A mortgage calculator tool can help buyers estimate how much a mortgage payment is going to be and the total amount a borrower can qualify for.

Closing Fees

The mortgage contingency can stipulate what closing fees and mortgage points are acceptable.

Maximum Interest Rate

An interest rate can be specified that the lender must provide before the mortgage contingency is satisfied. This makes it so the buyer can back out of the contract if the costs are too high.

Can You Waive a Mortgage Contingency?

Yes. Mortgage preapproval can help make your offer more competitive, but you may still waive the mortgage contingency. In that case, your earnest money is at risk, and you’re not able to renegotiate the contract if the appraisal comes in low. Keep in mind that FHA and VA loans do not allow buyers to waive the appraisal (which is an important part of the financing contingency).

Reasons to Waive a Mortgage Contingency

There are some scenarios where it doesn’t make sense to include a mortgage contingency in the contract:

•   When the buyer is able to pay cash for the property. Cash buyers do not have to include a mortgage contingency.

•   When owner financing is involved. If the current owner of the home is financing the sale, buyers do not need to include a mortgage contingency.

•   When competition is extremely high. It might be a good idea to look at this option as a last resort, but in a market where sellers only accept offers without contingencies, this could be a buyer’s only way to win the contract.

💡 Quick Tip: One answer to rising house prices is a jumbo loan. Apply for a jumbo loan online with SoFi, and you could finance up to $2.5 million with as little as 10% down. Get preapproved and you’ll be prepared to compete in a hot market.

Other Common Types of Contingency Clauses

The financing contingency isn’t the only common one in a contract. Some others are:

•   Inspection contingency. This is a contingency that allows the buyer to exit the contract should the property fail a home inspection.

•   Appraisal contingency. This contingency is connected to the financing contingency. Should the property fail to appraise for the amount needed to finance the loan, the buyer would have the option of renegotiating or dropping the contract.

•   Title contingency. A property needs to be free of title defects for the sale of the property to go through.

•   Sale of home contingency. This contingency allows buyers to sell their current home before completing the purchase of a new home.

Recommended: How to Read a Preliminary Title Report

The Takeaway

A mortgage contingency protects homebuyers’ ability to get their earnest money back if financing falls through. Waiving the mortgage contingency in a hot market could put some house hunters at the front of the line, but it’s a risk only those feeling confident in their financial situation should take.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

Can you waive a mortgage contingency?

Yes. Even if you need to obtain financing, waiving the mortgage contingency is an option.

What does no mortgage contingency mean?

No mortgage contingency means that buyers are willing to take on the risk of losing their earnest money if they are unable to secure financing by the closing deadline.

Should you waive mortgage contingency?

Homebuyers willing to take the risk of losing their earnest money to the seller to better compete are best poised to waive the mortgage contingency. Buyers who are not willing to risk their earnest money should not waive the mortgage contingency.

How long does a mortgage contingency usually take?

A mortgage contingency is usually set between 30 and 60 days.

Photo credit: iStock/kate_sept2004

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SOHL0124028

Choosing the right loan can save you anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars in costs. So it pays to consider your options before you decide what type of loan you really need.

A personal loan might come with an origination fee and a relatively high interest rate, but a cash-out refinancing loan will entail considerable closing costs. Timing is another concern. If you need funds quickly, a cash-out refinancing loan is probably not an option because approval can take weeks, whereas a personal loan can deliver funds within days.

Here’s a look at the factors to consider when deciding between a personal loan vs. a cash-out refinance. We’ll examine what both types of loans are, why one might be preferable over the other, and offer a side-by-side comparison of the two types of loans so you can make an educated decision.

What Does a Personal Loan Include?

A personal loan is typically an unsecured loan offered by a bank, credit union, or online lender. An unsecured loan is usually not backed by collateral, which means the lender will charge a higher interest rate to cover the cost of their risk. When a personal loan is approved, the borrower receives cash into their bank account, often within one business day, and pays a monthly payment that includes some of the principal and the interest due. The funds from a personal loan can be used for any purpose.

What Is a Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance?

A cash-out mortgage refinance is a type of secured loan that a borrower obtains by using their home as collateral. If you default on the payments, the bank or lender can repossess or foreclose on your home. There is less risk for the lender if the loan is backed by collateral, so the interest rates are lower.

With a cash-out mortgage refinance, the loan amount has to be large enough to pay off your existing mortgage and provide you with a certain amount of cash. So, it’s likely to be a large loan.

To determine whether or not you qualify for a cash-out mortgage refinance, a lender will look at your income, employment, debt, property value, and credit history. These factors will also help decide your loan terms, should you qualify. As with a personal loan or a home mortgage loan, you will make monthly payments that include some of the principal and the interest due. There are no restrictions on how you use the money with this loan either.

💡 Quick Tip: There are two basic types of mortgage refinancing: cash-out and rate-and-term. A cash-out refinance loan means getting a larger loan than what you currently owe, while a rate-and-term refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new one with different terms.

Cash-Out Refinance vs Personal Loan: A Comparison

If you’re contemplating the repercussions of taking out a mortgage refinance loan compared to a personal loan, critical factors to consider are collateral, interest rates, how quickly you will have access to funds, and closing costs. Below is a side-by-side comparison of the main factors likely to influence your decision.

Home Equity and Collateral

Deciding whether to take out an unsecured personal loan or a secured cash-out refinancing comes down to how much equity you have in your home, how quickly you need the funds, and which type of loan will be cheaper. Making the right decision requires understanding the interest rates and terms you would qualify for with each type of loan. Also know that you risk losing your home if you choose cash-out refinancing but fail to make the payments.

To refinance your home and take cash out with a loan, a lender will require you to keep 20% equity, which limits your new loan amount to 80% of your home’s appraised value. A personal loan puts no limits on the amount you can borrow, except for those dictated by the bank.

Cost and Interest Rates

The cost of a loan, whether a personal or home loan, is largely determined by interest rates. The interest rate you receive on a mortgage loan vs. a personal loan will depend on whether you meet or exceed the minimum credit score for a personal loan, as well as on your income and the loan amount.

Personal loans, because they are unsecured, have higher interest rates than home loans. Credit card financing could be an option, but credit cards are typically even more expensive. People often use a personal loan or a cash-out refinance to consolidate debt and pay off credit cards.

Speed of Approval and Funding

How soon you receive funding varies significantly between the two types of loans. The application for a personal loan is often completed online, and if you are approved for a mortgage, you could receive funding within days, sometimes as fast as one business day. The home mortgage loan application process requires significant documentation, such as underwriting, an appraisal, and legal documents, and can take weeks.

Loan Amount

The loan amount for a personal loan varies. Some banks will offer loans as low as $600 or as high as $100,000. Most lenders set a minimum around $5,000 and a maximum around $50,000. Cash-out refinancing home loans, however, tend to be much larger, and they depend on your equity and the value of your home. As noted above, you can typically take out a new loan for up to 80% of the value of your home.

Closing Costs and Loan Fees

Many personal loans have a relatively small origination fee and no closing costs. The fees for any loan will depend on the lender. But you can bet on a fee in the range of 0 to 5% for a personal loan.

Mortgage loans tend to be much larger, and closing costs and fees can range from 3% to 6% for a cash-out refinancing loan. The originator of the home loan charges fees to cover origination, document processing, and underwriting.

As an example, if you needed to borrow $10,000, you might pay around $500 in fees for a personal loan. If you chose cash-out refinancing, you’d have to borrow $10,000 plus the amount of your mortgage balance. If your mortgage balance is $150,000, you’d pay closing costs on $160,000, which could be as much as $5,000.

Length of Repayment Period

Repayment terms for a home refinancing loan will be longer than the terms for a personal loan because the loan amount will be higher. The repayment period for a personal loan is typically from one to five years. Home loan terms range from 15 to 30 years. A few lenders will offer a 10-year term.

Eligibility for Tax Benefits

You might be eligible for tax benefits for a cash-out refinancing loan. It’s worth noting that a borrower doesn’t need to report cash received from a cash-out refinancing loan as income, because it is considered a form of debt. You might also be able to deduct your interest if you used the cash to make improvements to your home, but you will need to keep receipts and records to show the work that you did. A tax professional can help you determine if you qualify for this benefit.

💡 Quick Tip: Generally, the lower your debt-to-income ratio, the better loan terms you’ll be offered. One way to improve your ratio is to increase your income (hello, side hustle!). Another way is to consolidate your debt and lower your monthly debt payments.

The Takeaway

If you need funds and are trying to decide between a personal loan or a cash-out refinancing loan, the main factors to consider are how much money you need, how soon you need it, and how much you can afford to spend each month to pay off the loan.

Personal loans are typically the best option if you want to borrow a few thousand or less and you need the funds quickly. On the other hand, a cash-out refinancing loan is best if you want to borrow a larger amount and spread the payments over a longer period. With both options, your credit score will drop if you miss payments, and with a cash-out refinancing loan, you also risk your home falling into foreclosure if you cannot meet your monthly payment obligations.

Turn your home equity into cash with a cash-out refi. Pay down high-interest debt, or increase your home’s value with a remodel. Get your rate in a matter of minutes, without affecting your credit score.*

FAQ

Can I use a personal loan or a cash-out refinance to pay off my mortgage early?

You can use personal loans and cash from a refinancing to pay for anything you like. People often use both types of loans to pay off credit card debt or student loans, or to fund home improvements, because the interest rates and total cost of the loan might be a cheaper option.

How do I determine if the terms of a personal loan or a cash-out refinance are right for me?

To decide whether to use a personal loan or to refinance, consider your priorities. For example, a mortgage refinancing would be better if you want lower monthly payments spread out over a longer period. If you only want to borrow a few thousand dollars, a personal loan would be better because there are no closing costs. Also, consider if you want to use your home as collateral.

Can I get a personal loan or a cash-out refinance if I am self-employed?

Yes, as long as you can document a regular and reliable source of income and meet other qualifications set out by the lender, being self-employed shouldn’t affect your ability to qualify for a personal loan or a cash-out mortgage refinancing loan.

What are the consequences of missing a payment on a personal loan or a cash-out refinance?

Missing payments on a personal loan will cause you to incur late fees and may reduce your credit score significantly. The same is true if you miss payments on a refinance loan, however in this case you could also be at risk of foreclosure if you miss payments repeatedly.

Photo credit: iStock/urbazon

^*Checking Your Rates: To check the rates and terms you may qualify for, SoFi conducts a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

What’s a duplex? It’s a two-for-one special in the real estate world: two units in one building on one plot of land.

Duplexes are the perfect blend of income production and personal space for some. For others, they may be too small and involve too much maintenance.

Read on to learn what a duplex is and who should consider owning one.

Characteristics of a Duplex

Duplexes, which fall into the multifamily property category, have these common characteristics:

•   Single lot. While there are two units, they’re on the same lot.

•   Shared yard. Duplex units will typically share a yard and will have a common wall or ceiling/floor.

•   Similar size and layout. The two units in a duplex may not be exact replicas, but they often have the same square footage and a similar layout.

Types of Duplexes

Duplexes take one of these forms:

Stacked

When the two units are atop each other, that’s a stacked duplex. Occupants have a common ceiling or floor.

Side-by-Side

In a side-by-side duplex, units are next to each other. Occupants have a shared wall.

In general, the units in a multifamily property have separate entrances, kitchens, bathrooms, and utility meters.

Here’s what a duplex is not: a “twin home.” With a twin home, two homes share a wall, but each is an individually deeded home on an individual lot.

Recommended: How Government-Backed Mortgages Work

Pros and Cons of Owning a Duplex

Duplex living isn’t for all homeowners but could be the perfect fit for some. Let’s start with some upsides.

Pros of Buying a Duplex

•   House hacking. An owner can live in one unit and rent out the other, earning income to help cover a mortgage loan.

•   Affordability. Owner-occupants can use a government-backed home loan and enjoy the same low or no down payment requirement that they would with a primary home. Also, duplexes are often located in more affordable neighborhoods, and buying a two-unit property will typically cost less than buying two stand-alone single-family homes.

•   Tax advantages. Tax advantages. Owner-occupants may be able to write off mortgage interest and property tax on the half of the property they live in. If the other half is a rental, they can potentially write off repairs to that unit, any utility bills paid for it, and any management fees. The owner can depreciate the rented half of the property. It’s important to consult with a tax advisor about tax strategies.

•   Easy tenant management. For first-time landlords, living in a unit and renting the other one can be a lower-stress alternative to investment property. A resident owner can address issues immediately and keep an eye on ongoing maintenance.

•   Buying property together. Whether it’s friends owning real estate together or a multigenerational household looking for some private space, a duplex might be a perfect fit, as the property is already naturally divided into two. There’s proximity but also space.

•   A boost in getting a mortgage. With conventional or government-backed financing, you can usually use projected rental income to qualify for the loan. The lender will add a portion of the rental income to your gross income to determine your debt-to-income ratio.

Cons of Buying a Duplex

Some drawbacks also exist. They include:

•   Lack of privacy. In a duplex, occupants are on top of each other or right next door. Sharing a wall or ceiling/floor might be hard for some homeowners. If privacy is a priority, a duplex might not be the right fit. That’s also true of co-op and condo living.

•   Possibly a large down payment. If both units will be leased, you won’t qualify for a government-backed loan. You’ll likely need to put down at least 20% for a conventional loan and will pay a higher interest rate. If you do plan to live in one of the units and use a conventional loan, you may qualify to put 15% down.

•   Tricky taxes. Tax season gets more complicated for duplex owners than owners of traditional single-family homes.

•   Sharing space. Duplex owners may have to share a laundry room or backyard with the other occupants.

•   Landlord duties. Unless a duplex owner purchases the property with another party or has the property managed, they’ll have to serve as landlord for some or all of the home. That means regular maintenance and searching for tenants, which could be stressful for some homeowners.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Different Types of Homes

Finding a Duplex

Duplexes are enticing to people looking for a starter home, other owner-occupants, and those investing in duplexes, which can make the search much more competitive.

As duplexes are often more expensive than single-family homes, figuring out your budget before the search will help (give this mortgage calculator a whirl), as will having your anticipated down payment at the ready and credit in good shape.

Having financing lined up can make the process more seamless. If the duplex will be owner-occupied, that may help determine which kind of loan to choose among the different mortgage types.

Should you go with a mortgage broker or direct lender? You can get quotes from both.

They should be able to answer your mortgage questions. And it pays to shop around for home loan offers.

Should You Own a Duplex?

Owning a duplex isn’t for everyone, but it could be the place to call home for buyers who want to dip their toes into the investment property market. Although duplexes come with quirks, some benefits (especially rental income) may outweigh the drawbacks.

If you do plan to live at the property, you might eventually outgrow it and move on. In that case, your home equity can help purchase the next home.

And that duplex and other assets can help build generational wealth.

The Takeaway

What is a duplex? Two living units in one property. Duplexes pack a two-for-one punch when it comes to real estate ownership. They aren’t the right fit for all house hunters, but so many buyers are interested in duplexes that they’re a hot ticket.

Looking for an affordable option for a home mortgage loan? SoFi can help: We offer low down payments (as little as 3% - 5%*) with our competitive and flexible home mortgage loans. Plus, applying is extra convenient: It's online, with access to one-on-one help.

FAQ

How can I profit from my duplex?

Duplexes can be either entirely rental properties or owners can choose to occupy one of the units. As an owner-occupant, you can use rent from the other unit to supplement or perhaps pay your monthly mortgage entirely. When the duplex is an investment property, you can collect rent on both units, with the profit potential based on the monthly mortgage payment.

How do I rent out a duplex?

There’s a high likelihood you’ll rent out one of the units year-round. However, some duplex owners use the other unit as a guest space, short-term rental, or even an artist studio, depending on their needs.

Should I sell my duplex?

Deciding whether or not to sell your property is a personal choice based on circumstances and the local market. A duplex, though, can be a good property to keep as an investment, as the two units provide a lot of flexibility for renters, Airbnb guests, and an owner’s place to live.

Photo credit: iStock/RichLegg

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SOHL-Q125-011

Jumbo loans are just that: jumbo. For 2023, conforming loan limits for houses in most counties — set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency — are $726,200. If you want to buy a more expensive home and need to finance more than that limit, you’ll be in the market for a jumbo loan.

Homeowners often refinance traditional (i.e., conforming) mortgages to get a lower interest rate, change their loan terms, or tap into home equity. But what about homeowners with a jumbo loan: Can they refinance as well?

A mortgage refinance for a jumbo loan is possible, but it may be a little more complicated. Let’s have a look at the process of a jumbo loan refinance.

When Can You Refinance a Jumbo Loan?

There is no set timeline for refinancing a jumbo mortgage loan. In theory, you could refinance at any point during your loan, but lenders typically have strict requirements before approving a jumbo mortgage refinance. If you’ve been paying down the loan for a while, it’s possible your refinance would fall within the conforming loan limits. To determine whether or not this is the case, take a look at the conforming loan limits for your specific area. If you still need a jumbo mortgage loan, this is what you’ll want to consider:

Credit Score

Unsurprisingly, getting approved for a jumbo refinance means you’ll need a strong credit score. To refinance to a 30-year fixed-rate loan, lenders typically want to see a credit score of 680 or higher. Refinancing to a 15-year fixed or adjustable-rate mortgage has an even tougher credit score threshold: 700 or higher. And if you’re looking for a refinance for an investment or rental property, you may need a credit score as high as 760.

Recommended: Does Having a Mortgage Help Your Credit Score?

Debt-to-Income Ratio

Similarly, lenders will analyze your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio when reviewing your jumbo refinance application. While lenders typically want a DTI of 50% or lower for conventional loans, you may need a DTI as low as 36% when refinancing a jumbo mortgage loan.

Cash Reserves

Lenders will also typically want to see that you have cash reserves set aside. The amount of mortgage reserves you need will vary by lender but could be as much as six months’ worth of mortgage payments in liquid assets, more if you are self-employed.

Other Considerations

In addition, lenders may consider your payment history. If you have made one or more late payments on your current jumbo mortgage loan, you might not get approved for a refinance.

Other lenders may want you to have a certain amount of equity in your home before permitting a refinance.

And if you’ve filed for bankruptcy, it can be much more challenging to refinance. You’ll usually need to wait until the bankruptcy (or a past foreclosure) vanishes from your credit history — potentially 10 years.


💡 Quick Tip: If you refinance your mortgage and shorten your loan term, you could save a substantial amount in interest over the lifetime of the loan.

Jumbo Loan Refinance Requirements

Assuming you have the right qualifications for a jumbo refinance, here’s what you’ll typically need to provide to the lender:

•   Two previous months of bank statements

•   Proof of income, like your most recent pay stub

•   Tax returns from the last two years, including all W-2s

•   A profit/loss and balance sheet if you’re self-employed

•   Any other documentation of income, such as 1099s, that can help your chances of approval

Of course you’ll also have to go through all the steps of refinancing a mortgage that would be required with any loan.


💡 Quick Tip: Your parents or grandparents probably got mortgages for 30 years. But these days, you can get them for 20, 15, or 10 years — and pay less interest over the life of the loan.

Pros and Cons of Refinancing a Jumbo Loan

As with regular refinancing, jumbo mortgage refinances have a number of pros and cons to consider:

Pros

•   Faster payoff: If you refinance to a mortgage with a shorter term, you’ll pay off your home sooner — and be free from that high monthly payment.

•   Less interest: If you get a lower interest rate, you could save money over the life of the loan.

•   Predictable payments: If you switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate loan, your monthly payments will be locked in.

•   No more PMI: You may be able to get rid of private mortgage insurance when you refinance your loan.

•   Home improvements: If you do a jumbo cash-out refi, you can leverage the equity you have in your home to make home improvements. You could also use the money to pay down debt or cover college costs.

Cons

•   Closing costs: Refinancing a home loan means you’ll have to close again, and that can get expensive. According to Freddie Mac, closing costs when refinancing average about $5,000.

•   Larger monthly payments: If you shorten your loan term when refinancing, be prepared for larger monthly payments. You’ll want to feel confident that if you face a job loss, have a new baby, or experience another big life change you can still afford the higher monthly payment.

•   Lost equity: With a cash-out refinance, you borrow against the equity in your home. While it’s helpful for funding home improvements or paying down high-interest debt, you lose out on that equity you’ve built.

Recommended: How Much Does It Cost to Refinance a Mortgage?

How Will Refinancing a Jumbo Loan Affect Your Mortgage?

Refinancing a jumbo loan can have a few intended effects, including:

Lower Rate

Mortgage rates fluctuate over time. If rates drop, you might want to refinance to take advantage of the lower interest rate.

Longer Loan Term

If your current monthly mortgage payment is too high for you to handle, you may be able to lower it by refinancing and lengthening the loan term. Keep in mind, you’ll likely pay more in interest over the life of the loan — but the tradeoff for lower monthly payments might be worth it.

Shorter Loan Term

On the flip side, you might be able to shorten the length of your loan by refinancing. Your monthly payments may go up, but you’ll likely pay less in interest, and you’ll be free from the burden of a mortgage payment significantly sooner.

Take Cash Out of Equity

Many homeowners do a cash-out refinance to take advantage of some of the equity they’ve built in their home. You might refinance to get a nice lump sum to put toward home renovations, high-interest credit card debt, or another big expense.

Change Interest Structure

If your jumbo loan is an adjustable-rate mortgage, you may have trouble predicting your monthly payments. When you refinance to a fixed-rate loan, you’ll get more dependable monthly payments, which can make it easier to budget.

The Takeaway

Refinancing a jumbo mortgage is possible and could yield several benefits, like a better interest rate, better terms, and a better interest structure. The requirements to refinance your jumbo loan may be stricter than refinancing a conforming loan. Work with a lender to understand when and how you can refinance your jumbo loan.

When you’re ready to take the next step, consider what SoFi Home Loans have to offer. Jumbo loans are offered with competitive interest rates, no private mortgage insurance, and down payments as low as 10%.

FAQ

Can I refinance my jumbo mortgage loan with my current lender?

It may be possible to refinance your jumbo mortgage loan with your current lender. But refinancing is also a time to shop around and consider the terms other lenders have to offer. With any jumbo loan refinance, you’ll need to meet certain requirements; this might include a minimum credit score or DTI.

What are the risks associated with refinancing a jumbo mortgage loan?

Refinancing a jumbo mortgage will involve significant closing costs. Your credit score will also likely drop when you refinance because of the hard inquiry. And if it’s a cash-out refinance, you’ll lose some of the equity you’ve built in your home.

How often can I refinance my jumbo mortgage loan?

While there’s technically no limit to how often you can refinance a mortgage loan, you likely won’t want to do it too often. You’ll pay closing costs every time you refinance, and your credit score can take a hit each time.

Can I still refinance my jumbo mortgage loan if I’m self-employed?

It’s possible to refinance a jumbo mortgage loan if you’re self-employed. You may just have to jump through additional hoops to prove your income. That can mean providing a profit-and-loss and balance statement, tax returns or 1099s from recent years, and business bank statements.

Can I refinance my jumbo mortgage loan if I have an adjustable-rate loan?

Yes, you can refinance your jumbo mortgage if you have an adjustable-rate loan. One of the many reasons people consider refinancing a jumbo loan is to switch from an adjustable- to a fixed-rate mortgage.

What should I do if I’m having trouble making payments on my jumbo mortgage loan?

If you’re having trouble making payments on your jumbo mortgage loan, you may be able to refinance to get a better interest rate/and or lengthen the loan term. Both options could lower your monthly payment. However, if you’ve already missed one or more payments, getting approved for a jumbo refinance could be challenging.

How do I know if refinancing my jumbo mortgage loan is the right decision for me?

To determine if refinancing a jumbo mortgage loan is right for you, consider your current finances and long-term goals. If refinancing means your monthly payments will be more manageable, you’ll save money in the long term, or you’ll be able to leverage your equity to fund a home renovation or pay down high-interest debt, it may be a good strategy for you.

Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility-criteria for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.