Refinancing to lower your VA loan rates is a good idea. However, this option also comes with a few disadvantages. By getting a refinance loan, you are opening up your finances to several new factors. This means that just as you get the loan reductions you were originally after, the refinance loan also brings with it new risks to add to the risks involved in your old loan.
One of the possible disadvantages of refinancing to get lower VA loan rates is that you might lose your equity in your home. Your equity is the portion of the loan amount that you really own because you have already paid for it. As you pay your loan dues monthly, your equity gradually grows. However, if you get a refinance loan, you lower your equity instead of raise it. This sets you back instead of bringing you closer to owning your home completely.
Refinancing for your VA loan rates will also have a negative effect on your net worth for the long term. If you refinance, you can lower your VA loan rates and lower your total monthly dues. However, in the long run, you are actually increasing the total amount of your loan if your refinance loan adds more years to the period of your loan.
There are instances when refinancing is good and also some instances when the disadvantages outweigh the benefits. Always make your financial decisions carefully.