Abstract
The optimal prepayment model asserts that rational homeowners will refinance if they can reduce the current value of their liabilities by an amount greater than the refinancing threshold, defined as the cost of carrying the transaction plus the time value of the embedded call option. To compute the notional value of the refinancing threshold, researchers have traditionally relied on discrete- or continuous-time option-pricing models. Using a unique loan level database that links homeowner attributes with property and loan characteristics, this study proposes an alternative approach for estimating the implied value of the refinancing threshold. This empirical method enables us to measure the minimum interest-rate differential needed to justify refinancing conditional on the borrower's creditworthiness, loan-to-value ratio and other observable characteristics.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
