Does Wells Fargo Recast Mortgage Loans?
Does Wells Fargo Recast Mortgage Loans? Discover if Wells Fargo offers mortgage loan recasting and how it could benefit you.
Are you a Wells Fargo mortgage holder who has recently made a substantial payment towards your loan’s principal? If so, you might be curious about the possibility of having your mortgage loan recast.
In simple terms, a mortgage recast is a process where your lender recalculates your loan amount based on your new principal balance, resulting in potentially lower monthly payments.
Does Wells Fargo Offer Mortgage Recasts?
Yes, Wells Fargo does offer mortgage recasts, which can be a valuable financial tool for homeowners. However, there are specific eligibility criteria that you must meet to qualify for a recast:
1. Fixed-Rate Loan:
To be eligible for a mortgage recast through Wells Fargo, your loan must be a fixed-rate mortgage.
2. Minimum Principal Payments:
You must have made a minimum of $20,000 in principal payments towards your mortgage.
3. Loan Status:
Your loan must be current and not in default. Wells Fargo typically does not offer recasts for delinquent loans.
How Does a Mortgage Recast Work?
When you request a mortgage recast, Wells Fargo will perform the following steps:
1. Recalculating Loan Amount:
The lender recalculates your loan amount based on your new principal balance, considering the additional payments you’ve made towards the principal.
2. Adjusting Monthly Payments:
The lender also recalculates your monthly payments. These new payments will be lower than your previous ones, but the loan term remains the same.
For instance, let’s say you have a $300,000 mortgage with a 30-year term, resulting in a monthly payment of $1,000. If you make a $20,000 principal payment, Wells Fargo will recast your loan to a $280,000 mortgage with the same 30-year term. Your new monthly payment will be reduced to $933.
Benefits of Wells Fargo Mortgage Recast
Opting for a Wells Fargo mortgage recast can offer several advantages to homeowners:
1. Lower Monthly Payments:
A reduced monthly payment can provide significant financial relief, especially if you are struggling to make your existing mortgage payments.
2. Reduced Interest Costs:
By paying down your loan’s principal faster, you’ll save money on interest payments over the life of the loan.
3. Improved Cash Flow:
Lower monthly payments free up funds that you can allocate to other financial goals, such as saving for retirement, investing, or paying down other debts.
Drawbacks of a Wells Fargo Mortgage Recast
While mortgage recasts can be beneficial, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks:
1. Closing Costs:
There may be closing costs associated with a mortgage recast, typically around $500.
2. Extended Loan Term:
Recasting your mortgage extends the loan term. While this results in lower monthly payments, it also means you’ll pay more interest over the life of the loan.
3. Loss of Equity:
If you make a large principal payment, you’ll reduce the equity you have in your home. This could impact your ability to access home equity for other purposes, such as home improvements or emergencies.
Is Wells Fargo Mortgage Recasting Right for You?
Whether you should pursue a mortgage recast depends on your unique financial circumstances and goals.
1. Financial Situation:
If you’re struggling to make your current mortgage payments, a recast could provide much-needed relief by lowering your monthly expenses.
2. Interest Savings:
If you want to save money on interest payments over the life of your loan, a recast can help you achieve this goal.
3. Closing Costs:
Consider the closing costs associated with a recast. Ensure that the potential interest savings outweigh these expenses.
4. Long-Term Plans:
Think about your long-term plans. If you plan to stay in your home for an extended period, the benefits of a lower monthly payment might outweigh the drawbacks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Wells Fargo does offer mortgage recasts as a financial option for eligible homeowners. A mortgage recast can provide lower monthly payments, reduced interest costs, and improved cash flow.