Be Inquisitive. It's your responsibility to make sure that you understand the terms of your loan. Ask questions and listen carefully to the answers. Don't sign your loan documents until you are satisfied with the information and confident that you have made the right decision.
You can ask for a copy of your settlement cost papers (the HUD-1 form) one day in advance of your loan closing. This will give you a chance to review the documents and verify the terms.
Refinacing your mortgage can allow you to take cash out of the equity which you have built in your home. You can pay off your higher interest debts and pay all of your debts at a lower interest rate. This will allow you to save money on a monthly basis and achieve your financial security.
When it comes to lowering your rates you will need to weight the benefits of having a lower rate vs. paying points up front. You may end up paying a lot more depending on your choice and how long you plan on keeping your mortgage.
Be Proactive. Your loan representative should keep in contact with you even if there isn't any action on your loan. But do your part to keep the lines of communication open as well. If you don't hear from your loan representative for a few days, pick up the phone and ask for an update. The old adage that the squeaky wheel gets the grease definitely applies in this situation.
