In real estate transactions, the term “funded” signifies the moment when financial resources have been transferred and are now available to finalize a purchase. This key step determines when a buyer can officially be considered the new owner of a property. Funding is often confused with closing, but they are distinct processes—funding specifically refers to the allocation of funds from the lender to the respective closing parties, which can be a lender for a mortgage or even an investor in a cash transaction.
Understanding when a real estate deal is funded is crucial for all parties involved. When a transaction is fully funded, it corroborates that the lender has provided the necessary loaned funds, fulfilling a significant part of the home buying process. This event triggers a series of actions that lead to recording the deed, transferring the title, and ultimately, handing over the keys to the new owner.
Key Takeaways
- “Funded” indicates when money has been provided to finalize a real estate transaction.
- Funding is a distinct step separate from closing, confirming the lender’s release of funds.
- The completion of funding starts the final legal procedures, like recording the deed and transferring property titles.
Understanding Real Estate Funding
Understanding real estate funding is essential for anyone looking to invest in real estate, whether you’re purchasing your first home or exploring investment opportunities. This section breaks down the fundamentals of financing in the real estate market, compares real estate to other investment options, and outlines the different roles and funding types available in real estate transactions.
The Basics of Real Estate Investment
Real estate investment involves purchasing property with the intention of generating income or capital appreciation. Unlike stocks or bonds which represent a share of an entity or a debt investment, real estate represents a tangible asset. Investments can range from residential homes to commercial properties and, more recently, participation in real estate investment trusts (REITs) which allow individuals to invest in large-scale, income-producing real estate.
Real Estate vs. Other Investment Vehicles
Investing in real estate has unique benefits compared to other investment vehicles like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Real estate offers potential for cash flow, tax advantages, and a hedge against inflation. However, it typically requires more capital upfront and involves more hands-on management. REITs provide a way to invest in real estate without directly managing properties, often featuring liquidity comparable to stocks and bonds.
Roles in Real Estate Transactions
A real estate transaction involves various key players: the buyer, seller, lenders, and sometimes real estate agents or brokers. Lenders play a crucial role in providing the funds necessary for the buyer to complete the purchase, often through a mortgage loan. The buyer’s goal is to secure funding at favorable terms, while sellers aim to maximize their property’s value.
Types of Real Estate Funding
Real estate funding can take multiple forms, from traditional bank mortgages to government-backed loans and private financing arrangements. Mortgages are the most common funding type and are usually categorized by term lengths or fixed versus adjustable-interest rates. Some investors might opt for alternative financing methods, such as hard money loans for quicker access to capital, albeit at higher interest rates.
The Home Buying Process and Funded Status
The journey of purchasing a home is comprehensive and culminates in the pivotal moment of funding. This is when the buyer’s financing is secured, and the seller receives payment.
Overview of the Home Buying Steps
The home buying process involves several key steps, beginning with the buyer selecting a real estate agent and searching for suitable properties. Once the buyer finds a property they wish to purchase, they make an offer. Negotiations may take place until the seller accepts. Upon acceptance, the buyer often places earnest money into an escrow account, representing their commitment to the transaction. This leads to the home inspection, loan application, and securing of closing costs. The final stage is the closing, where legal transfer of the deed occurs.
What Does ‘Funded’ Mean?
In real estate transactions, funded means the disbursing or wiring of money from the lender to the title or escrow company to pay for the home the buyer is purchasing. Funding happens after the buyer and seller meet all the conditions of the sale, the loan documents are signed, and the closing is complete.
Timing of Funding in Real Estate Transactions
The timing of funding is critical and typically occurs on the closing date. Here, the lender sends the money to the escrow company, finalizing the financial aspect of the transaction. This is usually the last step before the buyer receives the keys, and the seller receives payment. The local government then records the lien against the property, marking the official change of ownership.
Financing Options for Real Estate
Securing the necessary funding is a pivotal step in real estate transactions. Various financing options cater to diverse needs, whether for purchasing a primary residence or investing in property.
Traditional Mortgages
Traditional mortgages are often the first option for homebuyers. These loans are usually offered by banks or mortgage brokers, providing a fixed-rate mortgage with predictable monthly payments. Borrowers are frequently required to pay for private mortgage insurance (PMI) if the down payment is less than 20% of the home’s value.
Home Equity Loans vs. Lines of Credit
Homeowners may access equity through a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). A home equity loan provides a lump sum with fixed interest rates, while a HELOC offers a credit line with variable rates, allowing borrowers to withdraw funds as needed up to a limit.
Real Estate Investment Loans
Those investing in real estate might consider real estate investment loans. Specialized products, such as loan funding from investment-focused lenders, cater to those looking to purchase rental properties or rehabilitate distressed homes for resale.
Hard Money and Private Lending
Hard money loans and private lending are alternative financing options often utilized for short-term real estate investments. These are typically provided by hard money lenders or private money lenders and not traditional banks, can have higher interest rates, and usually feature quicker approval times.
Key Financial Concepts in Funded Real Estate
When diving into funded real estate, understanding the financial components is critical. Investors and homebuyers alike need to grasp the intricate details of down payments, interest rates, and the influence of credit scores to secure favorable funding terms.
Down Payment and Earnest Money
The down payment is typically a percentage of the property’s purchase price, paid upfront to secure a mortgage. A larger down payment often results in more favorable loan terms and lower interest rates. Earnest money, usually 1-3% of the home’s purchase price, is a deposit demonstrating the buyer’s commitment to the transaction. This amount is credited towards the purchase at closing.
- Down Payment: Often 20% of the home’s price.
- Earnest Money Deposit: Secures the purchase agreement.
Understanding Interest Rates and Points
Interest rates dictate the cost borrowers pay to lenders for using the mortgage funds. These rates hinge on market conditions, the borrower’s creditworthiness, and the type of loan. Points, also known as discount points, are fees paid directly to the lender at closing in exchange for a reduced interest rate, also referred to as “buying down the rate.”
- Interest Rates: Vary based on credit scores and market trends.
- Points: Typically equal to 1% of the loan amount per point.
The Impact of Credit Score on Funding
A borrower’s credit score profoundly affects their ability to secure funding, influencing both the availability of loans and the terms offered. A higher credit score can unlock lower interest rates and better loan conditions, as it signals to lenders a lower risk of default.
- Credit Score: A critical determinant of loan terms and interest rates.
Investment Strategies and Funding Implications
In real estate investing, selecting the right investment strategy can profoundly impact the funding requirements and financial outcomes. Whether the goal is short-term gains or long-term wealth accumulation, understanding the implications of each approach is essential for investors.
Short-term vs. Long-term Investments
Short-term investments often require significant capital outlay initially due to renovation and repair costs, with the expectation of rapid returns. They are typically funded by hard money loans or private lenders for speed and agility, though these may carry higher interest rates. In contrast, long-term investments involve a more traditional funding route, such as mortgages or investment funds, aiming for ongoing income through rentals or long-term appreciation.
- Short-term: High initial funding, non-traditional financing, quick return.
- Long-term: Traditional funding, sustained income, appreciation focus.
House Flipping and Wholesaling
House flipping entails purchasing properties at a low price, applying strategic renovations, and selling them at a higher price. This necessitates a robust exit strategy and the ability to secure short-term, flexible funding. On the other hand, wholesaling requires little capital, as investors contract undervalued properties and sell them at a premium to other real estate investors.
- House Flipping: Requires substantial upfront funding, high risk, high reward.
- Wholesaling: Minimal capital, rapid turnaround, acts as a middleman.
Real Estate Portfolios and REITs
A well-diversified real estate portfolio can reduce risk and provide stable returns for investors. This may include residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) offer a more accessible option for beginner investors to enter the market. They can invest in high-value real estate assets typically out of reach for individual investors.
- Portfolios: Blend of assets, traditional financing, steady growth.
- REITs: Lower entry threshold, shares in diversified assets, liquidity.
The Due Diligence Process in Real Estate Deals
The due diligence process in real estate is critical for buyers to confirm that the investment meets their expectations and mitigates risks. This involves meticulous review and verification before proceeding with the transaction.
Conducting Proper Due Diligence
Due diligence is the cornerstone of a sound real estate transaction. Investors and buyers must conduct an extensive review of the property to surface potential risks. This includes assessing the physical condition of the property, confirming the validity of the title, and examining zoning laws. One should scrutinize financial documents, lease agreements, and existing contracts to ensure they align with their investment goals.
Appraisal and Proof of Funds
For a real estate deal, an appraisal provides an unbiased professional opinion on the value of the property. This assessment ensures that both buyers and lenders are making an informed decision on the property’s worth. Proof of funds is equally essential, confirming that the buyer has the financial means to complete the purchase. It typically takes the form of bank statements or financial documentation.
Ensuring Smooth Transaction with Escrow and Settlement Agents
Escrow and settlement agents play pivotal roles in the success of a real estate transaction. The escrow agent acts as a neutral third party, holding funds in trust while the buyer and seller fulfill the stipulated conditions of the deal. The settlement agent, often an attorney or title company, is tasked with facilitating the finalization of the transaction, ensuring all legal and financial requirements are met before the property changes hands. They meticulously check that the deal is structured correctly for a flawless close.
Comparing Real Estate Returns to Other Investments
When analyzing the performance of real estate as an investment, it is crucial to assess its returns in the context of alternatives like stocks and bonds, which offer different levels of risk and potential growth, impacting both short-term gains and long-term wealth accumulation.
Calculating Return on Investment (ROI)
Real estate return on investment (ROI) is calculated by taking the net profit of an investment property and dividing it by the total investment cost. This figure is often compared to the returns of the stock market, particularly indices like the S&P 500, which averages annual returns historically. While the value of stocks can be understood through stock prices and dividends, real estate investment returns involve both rental income and appreciation. The latter can compound over time as a property increases in value, often at a rate higher than inflation.
Understanding Market Volatility and Real Estate
The real estate market typically exhibits lower volatility when compared to stocks and bonds. It means that the investment value does not fluctuate as wildly day-to-day as it can with stocks. Stock prices, for instance, can be incredibly sensitive to market sentiment, news events, and earnings reports, which can cause rapid changes in value. Bonds can also be volatile, affected by interest rate changes and credit risk. However, both asset classes react differently to economic shifts, offering unique risks and opportunities for investors. Real estate can provide more stability, but it also has less liquidity.
Diversification in Real Estate vs. Stocks and Bonds
Investors frequently turn to real estate to diversify their portfolio beyond stocks and bonds. Real estate’s tangible asset nature and its income-generating potential through rent can be seen as a hedge against market downturns. However, unlike stocks that can be sold in fractions (shares), real estate requires a more substantial initial investment and is not as easily divisible. Furthermore, while stocks can provide dividends as a form of regular income, real estate offers rental income, which can also be affected by market conditions.
In summary, comparing real estate returns to other investments involves understanding ROI, market volatility, and the implications of diversifying. Each investment type has its unique characteristics that investors should consider when building a balanced and profitable investment portfolio.
Risks and Protections in Funded Real Estate
In funded real estate, investors face potential financial risks, but with the right safeguards in place, they can protect their investment properties. Insurance policies and an understanding of ongoing expenses, including property taxes, are critical to risk mitigation.
Insurance and Liability in Property Investment
Insurance plays a pivotal role in funded real estate investments. A landlord needs to have comprehensive property insurance to cover damages from unforeseen events such as fires, natural disasters, or vandalism. For rental properties, landlords often require renter’s insurance to mitigate the risk of tenant-caused damages. Liability insurance is also a fundamental protection, shielding the property owner from legal claims in the case of injuries occurring on the property.
- Property Insurance: Protects the physical structure and often the contents within it.
- Rental Property Insurance: Typically offers additional coverage unique to rental situations, such as loss of rental income.
- Liability Insurance: Covers legal fees and medical costs if someone is injured on the property.
Understanding Property Taxes and Expenses
Every investment property incurs ongoing expenses, of which property taxes are a significant part. These taxes are based on the assessed value of the property and vary by location. They fund public services and infrastructure, and failure to pay them can result in fines or a lien against the property. Investors must also account for maintenance expenses, which play a crucial role in preserving the value of the property and ensuring it remains attractive to current or potential tenants.
Key Expenses:
- Property Taxes: Compulsory, recurring charges based on property valuation.
- Maintenance Costs: Expenses incurred to keep the property in good repair. Includes regular upkeep and emergency repairs.
In conclusion, by understanding and preparing for both the risks and protections associated with funded real estate, investors can better navigate the complexities of property investment. Carrying the right insurance and being mindful of taxes and expenses are fundamental to securing the longevity and profitability of a real estate investment.
The Role of Property Management
Property management serves as a crucial intermediary between the landlord and tenants, ensuring that rental properties are well-maintained and profitable. The expertise of a property manager facilitates optimal operation, administration, and oversight of real estate.
What Does a Property Manager Do?
A property manager acts on behalf of the landlord to handle the end-to-end management of a rental property. Their duties cover a wide array of tasks that include:
- Tenant Relations: They are responsible for finding new tenants, performing background checks, and ensuring a smooth move-in process.
- Maintenance and Repairs: They oversee the upkeep of the property, addressing repair issues, and coordinating with service vendors.
- Financial Management: The collection of rent, budgeting for property expenses, and financial reporting all fall under their purview.
- Legal Compliance: Property managers have to be well-versed in housing laws and regulations to ensure the property and its management comply with all legal standards.
Benefits of Professional Property Management for Investors
Investors can reap substantial benefits from enlisting the expertise of professional property management, which includes:
- Maximized Occupancy Rates: They employ strategies to keep rental units occupied with reliable tenants, thus generating consistent rental income.
- Efficient Operations: Their streamlined processes and industry knowledge lead to the efficient operation of the property, translating into cost savings for landlords.
- Risk Mitigation: Professional property managers are adept at reducing risk through proper tenant screening, legal compliance, and proactive property maintenance.
Exit Strategies and Liquidity in Real Estate
In real estate investments, defining a clear exit strategy is crucial for ensuring liquidity. A well-crafted exit plan outlines how investors will exit their investment and liquidate assets, thus realizing their profits.
Planning for Liquidity in Property Investments
Investors should assess the market conditions and set realistic time frames for achieving liquidity in their investments. It is essential to consider factors such as market demand, economic cycles, and the property’s profitability when planning for liquidity. For residential properties, this could mean waiting for market peaks to sell or having a plan for refinancing to extract equity. Commercial investors might target lease milestones or specific market conditions that favor a sale.
Assessing Exit Options for Real Estate Deals
When looking into exit options, investors have several strategies to choose from:
-
Sell: A direct sale is the most straightforward exit strategy, offering immediate liquidity by transferring ownership to a buyer for a lump sum.
-
Lease Options: Provides potential for income through leasing, with the option to sell at a future date when market conditions may be more favorable.
-
Owner Financing: Selling the property by acting as the lender to the buyer can create a steady stream of income over time, with the added benefit of retaining some control over the investment.
-
1031 Exchange: This strategy allows investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting the proceeds from a sale into a like-kind property, essentially swapping one investment for another to maintain liquidity without the immediate tax implications.
Investors should conduct thorough due diligence and select the exit option that aligns with their financial goals, taking into account the liquidity each strategy offers. For example, Exit Strategy For Real Estate can provide insights into assessing multifamily investment liquidity options.
Understanding Closed-End and Open-End Real Estate Funds
Real estate mutual funds come in two primary structures: open-end and closed-end. Each serves its purpose within investment strategies, offering distinct timelines, capital commitments, and liquidity options that cater to different investor needs.
Benefits and Downsides of Closed-End Funds
Closed-end real estate funds are likened to a sprint—they operate within a specified period, usually between 8 to 12 years, and require investors, often limited partners, to commit capital within a shorter window, generally 6 to 18 months after the fund’s initiation. Investors in these funds benefit from the potential of higher returns due to a focused investment period and concentrated strategy, and they may see results align more closely with the initial investment thesis.
However, there are downsides. Such funds are illiquid, limiting investors’ ability to withdraw capital before the fund’s termination. Moreover, the limited timeframe can induce pressure on fund managers to deploy capital swiftly, possibly affecting the quality of acquisitions.
Investing in Open-End Real Estate Mutual Funds
Contrastingly, open-end real estate mutual funds present a marathon-like investment journey. There is no fixed end date, allowing the fund to grow as new investors come in and existing investors increase their stake. This everlasting nature affords investors the flexibility to join or exit the fund over time, subject to certain conditions, which can appeal to those seeking a more liquid investment in real estate.
Investing in open-end funds tends to be less restrictive. They typically allow periodic investment and withdrawal opportunities, albeit sometimes with notice periods or fees to prevent overly frequent transactions. These funds can be particularly attractive for smaller investors or those desiring steady, long-term exposure to real estate markets. However, this open structure might result in varying capital availability, which can impact the fund’s ability to seize investment opportunities quickly.
The Role of Legal Documentation in Real Estate Funding
In real estate transactions, funding is contingent upon the careful preparation and handling of essential legal documents. These documents solidify the terms of the funding and safeguard the interests of all involved parties.
Understanding the Purchase Agreement
The purchase agreement serves as the cornerstone of any real estate funding process. It is a legally binding document that outlines the specifics of the property transaction, including the sale price and the terms and conditions. In essence, it represents the buyer’s intent to purchase and the seller’s intent to sell real property. This agreement also stipulates any contingencies that must be satisfied before funding can be released, such as inspections and appraisals. As such, the purchase agreement must be detailed and unambiguous to ensure a clear understanding by all parties.
The Importance of the Promissory Note and Deed
Two critical instruments in real estate funding are the promissory note and the deed. A promissory note is a written promise from the borrower to the lender to repay the borrowed amount under agreed-upon terms. This document is key in defining the repayment plan, interest rate, and consequences of default, acting as a legal evidence of the debt.
Concurrently, the deed is a legal document that conveys ownership of the property from the seller to the buyer. Upon the finalization of funding, the deed is recorded in public records, signaling the completion of the property transfer. It is the final step in the legal process of funding, signifying that the buyer now holds the title and legal rights to the property.
Introduction to Real Estate Syndication
Real estate syndication is a method of pooling financial resources from multiple investors to invest in property opportunities that would typically be beyond the means of individual investors. It offers a strategic approach to investing in larger projects for those involved.
Syndication Structure and Stakeholders
In real estate syndication, there are two principal roles: General Partners (GPs) and Limited Partners (LPs). The GP, often referred to as the syndicator, is responsible for managing the investment, from identifying potential properties to overseeing the day-to-day operations. They bring expertise and time to the equation. On the other side, LPs are typically investors who provide much of the capital. They generally have limited liability and are not involved in the active management of the property.
Financial Commitments in Real Estate Syndication
Investors in a real estate syndication make financial commitments based on their agreement with the syndicate. The LPs provide capital which, in return, grants them equity in the real estate asset. The liquidity for these investment positions is generally lower compared to publicly traded securities, given that the investment horizon in real estate syndication extends over several years. Thus, they should anticipate their invested capital to be illiquid for that period. This time frame affords the asset the opportunity to appreciate in value and generate income through operations or eventual sale.
Funding for Real Estate Investors
Securing funding is a pivotal step for real estate investors looking to expand their portfolio. From leveraging private money loans to partnering with fellow investors, the avenues for capital are diverse and can be tailored to suit the needs of each investment deal.
Seeking Capital from Real Estate Investors
Real estate investors often seek capital by partnering with other investors, an act that can both dilute risk and increase purchasing power. When they pool resources, investors may enable each other to access property deals that would be out of reach for them individually. This collective approach permits investment in more significant, potentially more profitable ventures. Partnering can come with added benefits, such as shared expertise and resources.
Advantages of Collaborative Investing:
- Shared Risk: Dividing the investment among several parties reduces individual exposure.
- Enhanced Capital: More investors mean more financial resources for substantial deals.
- Knowledge Exchange: Partners can leverage each other’s expertise for better decision-making.
Benefits of Using Private Money Loans
Private money loans provide a flexible financing option for real estate investors. Unlike traditional bank loans, private loans often come with less stringent qualification requirements and faster approval times, making them ideal for competitive markets or timely transactions. Also, they tailor loan terms to suit the specific needs of the investor and the property, which is particularly useful for unusual or short-term projects.
Key Aspects of Private Money Loans:
- Speedy Transaction: Quick funding availability can be crucial for closing deals.
- Custom Terms: Loans can be customized, e.g., interest-only payments or balloon payments.
- Collateral-Based: Lending decisions are primarily based on the property’s value rather than solely on the borrower’s creditworthiness.
Special Considerations for Distressed Properties
When dealing with distressed properties in real estate, investors must navigate unique challenges and opportunities. Thorough due diligence and understanding of financing options are critical for a successful investment.
Investing in Distressed Real Estate
Distressed properties often present a chance to purchase real estate at prices below market value due to various complications, like foreclosure or the owner’s inability to maintain the property. Investors must assess the property’s current condition and potential for appreciation. Before proceeding, they should conduct thorough research to estimate the costs and time required for renovations and to address any legal issues. Investment strategies may differ based on each property’s circumstance, so a meticulous analysis is paramount.
Buyers should be aware that while distressed properties can be lucrative, they carry inherent risks. Issues like unresolved debts, property damage, and other liabilities can significantly impact the investment’s profitability.
Funding Options for Distressed Property Investments
Short-term financing is a common approach to funding distressed property investments. This type of financing can be more flexible compared to traditional mortgages and may be disbursed quicker, which is crucial in time-sensitive transactions common in distress sales.
Hard money loans represent one of the most prevalent short-term financing options available to real estate investors interested in distressed properties. These loans are typically asset-based, relying on the property value as collateral. Hard money loans offer the advantage of shorter approval times but often come with higher interest rates and shorter payback periods. They are designed for investors planning to improve and resell the property at a profit, usually after making necessary repairs and upgrades.
Investors considering hard money loans should carefully evaluate the terms offered and ensure they can complete their investment strategy within the loan period to avoid costly overruns or defaults.
The Process and Challenges of Double Closing
In real estate, “funded” typically means that all the necessary funds for a real estate transaction have been provided and disbursed, indicating the deal is complete. However, the concept of double closing adds complexity to this definition, involving not just one but two separate transactions where the funding becomes critical.
How Double Closing Works
Double closing, sometimes known as a back-to-back closing, consists of two distinct stages. First, there is the purchase transaction, where an investor (or “middleman”) buys the property from the original seller. This is the “A to B” transaction. Swiftly following this, there’s the sale transaction where the investor sells the same property to the end buyer, termed the “B to C” transaction.
- A to B Transaction: The investor purchases the property.
- B to C Transaction: The investor sells the property to the end buyer.
The sequential nature of these transactions allows the investor to sell the property without actually using their capital to fund the first purchase, assuming they can close both transactions within a short window.
Navigating Double Closing in Funding Deals
The intricacies of funding double closing deals can pose significant challenges. Investors have to ensure that the end buyer’s funds are available to close the second transaction promptly after the first. This may demand a high level of coordination between all parties involved: the initial seller, the investor, the end buyer, and sometimes financial institutions.
- Timing: Transactions must be scheduled closely to ensure the investor is not required to hold the property.
- Disclosure: All parties must be aware of, and agree to, the double closing procedure.
One must be cautious about potential funding gaps between the two transactions. For investors, the deal’s profit potential must justify the risks, including any additional closing costs incurred during the process. Understanding how to manage and align these elements is key to the success of a double closing transaction in real estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, readers receive clear answers to common inquiries surrounding what it means when a real estate transaction is ‘funded’. The information is grounded in the lending and legal processes of real estate.
What does ‘funded’ signify for a property transaction?
When a property transaction is ‘funded’, it means the mortgage lender has moved the loan amount to the title or escrow company. This step is essential for the seller to get paid, and for the buyer to ultimately receive the keys to the property.
What steps follow once a real estate loan is considered funded?
After a loan is considered ‘funded’, the final step is the recording of the deed of trust. This legal process involves documenting the new ownership details in public records, finalizing the transaction.
How much time is generally required for funding to occur after a property closing?
Funding a real estate transaction can take a few hours to a couple of days post-closing. The timing can vary based on lender policies, local practices, and any prior to funding conditions that need clearance.
Can you differentiate between the funding date and the closing date in real estate transactions?
The funding date is when the mortgage lender disburses funds to the title company, while the closing date is when all parties meet to sign the final documents. There can be a gap between the two, as funding often occurs a day or more before or after the closing.
What implications does ‘funded and recorded’ have for the parties involved in real estate?
Once a transaction is ‘funded and recorded’, it signifies the official completion of the property transfer. The buyer becomes the legal owner of the property, and the seller receives the payment for the sale.
For refinancing deals, what is the typical duration between closing and funding?
In refinancing transactions, the funding may happen immediately or within a few days of closing. Borrowers should be aware that there is a federally mandated three-day rescission period after closing, during which they can cancel the refinance.