Expert, localized Los Angeles answers provided by Heather Roy

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Refinancing

  I refinanced four years ago and was charged an appraisal fee...............I am refinancing again before the four years are up. Am I required to pay for an appraisal fee again? I had no improvements done to my home.
 
  In some areas, market values have changed a great deal in the past four years -- up in some areas, down in more.  A lender needs to know what your place is worth right now, so that probably indicates a new appraisal.  If you have an FHA or VA loan, though, "streamline" refinancing is available, with very little in the way of new expenses.  If that applies to you, start with your present lender.  If they're not handling the program, you may find it at some other lending institution.
    Edith
Originally published on December 9, 2007
 
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