When interest rates drop significantly, the homeowner should investigate the financial advantages of refinancing. Essentially, this means taking out a new loan to pay off your existing loan.
Refinancing may require paying many of the same fees paid at the original closing, plus origination fees. Most mortgage experts agree that if you can get a rate 1% less than your existing loan, and you plan on staying in your home for at least 18 months, refinancing is a good investment.