REFINANCING

 

Your mortgage should work as hard as you do.

There are plenty of reasons to refinance. What’s yours?

 

Lower your monthly payment.

 

Lock in a new rate with a fixed term.

 

Shorten your loan term and pay it off sooner.

 

Take out cash to pay off high-interest debt.1

 

Access your home's equity for improvements.

 

Explore removing Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).


30-Year Fixed

Count on a consistent principal and interest payment.

Rates as low as
6.28 % APR

15-Year Fixed

Less interest overall and pay off your loan faster.

Rates as low as
5.50 % APR

5/1 ARM

Manageable payments with a lower initial rate.

Rates as low as
6.07 % APR

When you get your mortgage through us, it stays with us.

That means your loan won't be sold to a financial institution you don't know.

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Love It, List It or Refinance

Feeling stuck in your space — or your mortgage? Whether you're considering a remodel, a move or a refinance, this guide helps you weigh the emotional and financial trade-offs. Explore how each option could impact your comfort, budget and long-term goals so you can make the best decision for your home and your future.

READ MORE
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The Sweet Spot for Refinancing

Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart move — but only if the timing is right. With interest rates shifting and your financial goals evolving, knowing when to act can make all the difference. Whether you're aiming to lower payments, shorten your term or tap into equity, there's a strategic window that could maximize your savings. Learn how to recognize the right moment to refinance and start getting more value from your mortgage.

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Thinking about refinancing? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear.

That depends on your current loan, interest rate and how long you plan to stay in your home. Even a small drop in your rate could lower your monthly payment or reduce the total interest you pay over the life of your mortgage. But refinancing also comes with costs, so it's important to compare your potential savings against the fees. A loan consultant can help you run the numbers and see what makes sense given your goals.

Refinancing comes with costs including appraisal, title and loan origination fees, typically totaling 2%-5% of your loan amount. In many cases, these costs can be rolled into the loan. A loan consultant can walk you through the details and help you understand what to expect based on your specific loan and situation.

How much you're saving each month and what you paid in fees will determine your break-even point. For example, if refinancing saves you $150 a month and costs $3,000, you'd break even in 20 months. After that, the savings are yours. If you're unsure how to calculate your break-even point, a loan consultant would be happy to help.

It depends on your home's current value and how much you still owe on your mortgage. In many cases, you may be able to borrow up to 80% of your home's value, minus your remaining loan balance. The exact amount can vary, so it's worth reviewing your numbers with a loan consultant who can walk you through your options.

On average, refinancing takes about 30 days from application to closing, though timelines can vary based on your loan type, documentation and appraisal. If you're on a tight schedule or just want to know what to expect, we can walk you through the steps and plan ahead.

Sharon S., Member Since 1981
SHARON S. MEMBER SINCE 1981

Real Home, Real Savings

Sharon and her husband Rick were hesitant to refinance their mortgage, worried that the upfront costs wouldn't be worth the savings. But she says SchoolsFirst FCU made the process simple from the start, answering every question with patience and transparency. Switching from a 30-year mortgage at 6.125% APR to a 15-year fixed at 4.00% APR raised the couple's payment by about $100, but cut 11 years off the loan.

Best of all, our service has made a lasting impression. Sharon says at SchoolsFirst FCU, it's the people who make the difference.

Protect Your Biggest Investment

  • Homeowners Insurance: Make sure you're protected from losses due to fire, lightning, burglary, vandalism, storms and more.
  • Condominium Insurance: Get coverage for interior walls and floors, personal property and personal injury.
  • Earthquake Insurance: This separate policy helps you recover, replace and rebuild if a tremor damages your home.
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Discuss your options with a real estate loan consultant in person, over the phone or at a branch.

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Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Disclosures

APR = Annual Percentage Rate. All loans subject to approval.

All programs, interest rates and APRs listed above are effective as of 09/13/2025 and are subject to change without notice. The pricing you may qualify for is based on factors including your credit rating and loan-to-value (LTV) of your property. A minimum credit qualifying score is required. Adjustable-rate home loans, rate and payment subject to change after loan consummation. Lending area: State of California.
 
  1. The relative benefits of a loan for debt consolidation depend on your individual circumstances.

NMLS Identifier: 405503

Insurance products are offered through SchoolsFirst Insurance Services LLC subsidiary of SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. California Insurance License #0I19344. Insurance products are not NCUSIF insured and are not obligations of or guaranteed by the Credit Union. Insurance products are not available in all states. Purchasing an insurance product from SchoolsFirst Insurance Services is not required to originate a loan with SchoolsFirst FCU.