Cash-out refinance gives you a lump sum when you close your refinance loan. The loan proceeds are first used to pay off your existing mortgage(s), including closing costs and any prepaid items (for example real estate taxes or homeowners insurance); any remaining funds are yours to use as you wish. An amount paid to the lender, typically at closing, in order to lower the interest rate. Also known as mortgage points or discount points. One point equals one percent of the loan amount (for example, 2 points on a $100,000 mortgage would equal $2,000). An amount paid to the lender, typically at closing, in order to lower the interest rate. Also known as mortgage points or discount points. One point equals one percent of the loan amount (for example, 2 points on a $100,000 mortgage would equal $2,000).