How Do You Refinance Your Home and Your Car Payment at the Same Time?

There are many types of loans that draw on the equity in your home. A cash-out refinance allows you to combine your debts, including your car payment, into a single manageable loan. This type of refinance takes money from your home equity and uses it to pay off another debt: the car loan.

Cash-Out Refinance

The cash-out refinance loan is fully underwritten. The lender investigates your credit history and takes into account your credit score as well as your payment history on all debts, including your mortgage and car payment. Your monthly debt-to-income ratio is also considered by the lender. The loan program's DTI ratio must be met. Through a Fannie Mae cash-out refi, the maximum DTI is 50 percent. DTI levels vary by loan program, and lower DTI caps require you to have more money in your pocket at the end of the month after paying off all monthly debt bills. Lenders consider your home equity in addition to your credit and income qualifications. A new appraisal is ordered, and you will be responsible for paying it regardless of approval. Depending on your credit and income, most banks do not want more than an 85 percent loan-to-value (LTV), which means you must have at least 15% untapped equity in your home. Some programs, such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs loan program, allow up to 100 percent financing; however, your loan officer will discuss your options with you.

When It Makes Sense

Consider the costs of a cash-out equity loan before making any final decisions. Closing costs will be rolled into the new loan and amortized over time. Payment terms will most likely be extended from the remaining years on your loan to a new 30-year term. This will result in additional interest payments for many years. In addition, if your loan is more than 80% LTV, you will have to pay premium mortgage insurance (PMI) on top of the monthly payment. While the interest rate may be lower than the rate on your car loan, and your monthly payments may be reduced collectively, you may end up paying more for the loan in the long run. Speak with your lender and run the numbers; at the very least, be aware of all available options, including an equity line of credit. The equity line of credit may allow you to borrow money at a lower interest rate than a car loan, but it will not require you to pay PMI on your monthly payments.

Selling The Car

You may need to purchase a new vehicle at some point. While financing a new car, it is not uncommon to still pay for the first car using the equity loan terms. It's natural to become accustomed to your monthly payments and believe that your car is paid off. The car itself is most likely used as a trade-in or sold outright. Most people will not use the sale proceeds to pay down their mortgage; instead, the proceeds will be used to purchase a new car. You are effectively paying for two cars at the same time, while no longer owning the first. When you bundle debts, this becomes a hidden cost over time. If you’re right now is still confused about loaning a home or car, salt finance is the right answer. Salt Finance is a boutique home loan & car loan specialist helping hard clients to get a better deal, save interest and own their homes sooner. We are located at Mortdale, NSW. Salt Finance is ready, call us now!