County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs Information Sheet

Refinancing Your Home

When you refinance your home, you get a new loan to replace the one you already have. You might do that to:

• Get a lower interest rate
• Combine or pay off bills
• Get money for home improvements or repairs

Things to consider before you refinance

Refinancing to get a lower interest rate will probably save you money if:

• The new interest rate is 2% or more below the rate you pay now; and
• You plan to stay in your home for three or more years.

If you refinance to consolidate bills and pay off debts, your total monthly payments may be less than what you pay now.  However, your monthly mortgage payment will be higher.  Be aware that if you get behind on your monthly mortgage payment, you can lose your home.  (See Foreclosure.)

If you just need money for home repairs, you may qualify for a low interest government loan. Call the Community Development Commission at (323) 890- 7001 for more information.

How do I find a lender?

Banks, mortgage companies and credit unions are the most common lenders. Here are some tips for finding a lender:

• Contact three or more lenders. Look for a loan with the lowest interest rate, points and fees. 
• Be sure the lender is licensed and in good standing.  Call the Department of Corporations at (800) 347-6995.
• Mortgage loan brokers work with many lenders to help you find a loan.  To be sure that they are licensed with the Department of Real Estate, call (213) 620-2072.

How much will it cost to refinance?

Loan charges will vary from lender to lender. Loan charges include points and fees. Each point is equal to 1% of the loan and is paid to the lender or your loan broker. Be sure to shop around and negotiate for the lowest interest rate, points and fees.

What do loan fees include?

Loan costs may include the following fees:

Do I have a right to cancel?

Yes. From the time you sign the loan papers, you have 3 business days to cancel. If you cancel, your credit report and appraisal fees are non-refundable.  If you are refinancing a rental property, there is no right to cancel.

Before you sign

• Review all loan documents. 
• The Truth in Lending Disclosure has the basic terms and conditions of the loan.
• The Settlement or Closing Statement shows the fees you are being charged and what accounts are being paid off.
• Everything you were promised should be in the loan documents.  If you do not understand something, do not sign. Ask for an explanation.

Request free loan counseling

We are available to review your loan documents before signing.  Call as at the number below.  

Contact us for more information or speak with one of our counselors at (800) 973-3370.  If you live outside of Southern California, call us at (213) 974-1450.

For more information:
County of Los Angeles Department of Consumer Affairs
B-96 Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration
500 W. Temple Street * Los Angeles, CA 90012-2706
Telephone (800) 593-8222 (within LA County)
web site: dca.lacounty.gov