Should your mortgage be part of your retirement strategy?
Planning for retirement isn’t always straightforward—and if you feel like you’re behind, you’re not alone. According to recent surveys, 53% of Americans feel behind on their retirement planning, and with longer life expectancy and rising living costs, it’s always a good time to reevaluate your strategy.
One often-overlooked aspect of retirement planning? Your mortgage.
Nearly 40% of retirees still carry a mortgage, with the average balance over $100,000. That equates to roughly $10,000 per year in payments—lasting for 12 years or more. As you start designing your retirement roadmap, it's worth considering how your home—and any remaining debt tied to it—fits into the picture.
How to Manage Your Mortgage Leading Up to Retirement
Many of us consider money in the bank, in brokerage accounts, in 401(k)s, and IRAs when planning for retirement, but it’s easy to miss the money that’s built up in your home.
Your home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a financial asset, and how you manage your mortgage leading up to and during retirement can play a key role in your long-term financial stability.
Refinancing Your Mortgage as a Retirement Strategy
When comparing your retirement income to your working years’ income, it's smart to reassess your monthly obligations—and your mortgage is often the largest one. Refinancing your mortgage before you retire can be a strategic move to:
- Lower your monthly payments
- Lock in a lower interest rate
- Access your home equity
- Free up cash for investments or living expenses
By aligning your mortgage with your retirement income, you help create a smoother transition into your next chapter.
Benefits of Refinancing Before Retirement
1. Lower Monthly Payments
This is the most immediate and impactful benefit. Whether you secure a lower interest rate or extend your loan’s amortization period, lowering your monthly payments can:
- Free up more of your budget for everyday living
- Give you peace of mind if you’re on a fixed income
- Provide flexibility for unexpected expenses
2. Reduced Interest Rates
If interest rates have dropped since you first took out your mortgage, refinancing now could reduce your interest costs significantly. That means:
- More of your payment goes toward your principal
- You build equity faster
- You save money over the life of your loan
3. Tap Into Your Home Equity
Your home may be one of your largest sources of wealth. A cash-out refinance allows you to access that equity and use it for:
- Boosting your retirement savings
- Paying off higher-interest debt
- Funding healthcare costs or home improvements
4. Adjusting Your Loan Term
Depending on your financial needs, you may consider shortening or lengthening your loan term—for example, from a 30-year to a 15-year or vice versa.
Closing Thoughts: Mortgage Planning = Retirement Planning
When it comes to retirement, every dollar counts. That’s why it's essential to look beyond your bank account and 401(k) and consider your home’s role in your financial future.
Refinancing might not be the right move for everyone—but for many, it’s a practical way to lower expenses, boost cash flow, and better prepare for the road ahead.
Need help evaluating your mortgage options? Give us a call to talk about how your home can work harder for you in retirement.
