Home Equity Loans and HELOCs allow you to use your home’s equity as collateral when borrowing money. The borrowed money from a HELOC or a Home Equity Loan can be used to pay for college education, buying a new property, or used for home renovations and repairs. But is this all? Before borrowing any sum of money using your home’s equity, it is best to understand how specific loans work to protect yourself by understanding the disadvantages and advantages of these loans.
How do Home Equity Loans and HELOCs Work?
HELOCs and Home Equity Loans are both secured loans. You use your property’s equity as collateral for the lender to hold on to as they lend you money. Failing to pay the loan allows the bank or lender to claim your property.
For Home Equity Loans, you may borrow as much as 80% of your equity in one go. This loan usually gets a low interest rate and is affordable for most people.
For a Home Equity Line of Credit or a HELOC, you will be given a line of credit that is secured by the value of your equity. The ceiling amount for the HELOC is computed based on your home equity. This is the amount that is made available for you by the lender. You can borrow from this limited credit line in times you need cash and can pay according to set terms.
Repaying a Home Equity Loan and a HELOC
HELOCs usually come with repayment terms that range from 5 to 25 years. The amount borrowed should be paid after that term either as a lump payment or installment basis. During the term, the borrower can be charged interest on the borrowed amount and required to pay the said interest.
Repayment for a Home Equity Loan is usually a fixed amount per month or can also be variable depending on the agreed upon terms between the borrower and the lender.
Pros and Cons of HELOCs and Home Equity Loans
A huge advantage is the fact that both Home Equity Loans and HELOCs allow you to access a huge amount of money without having to sell your home. This gives you the flexibility to use your money as you need it. A HELOC will give you the freedom to use only an amount that you need for a given time, making it a good option if you have a few scattered recurring expenses here and there such as expensive medical bills and tuition fees. A Home Equity Loan, also called a Second Mortgage, is a great option for huge expenses such as a complete home renovation or buying another property.
A disadvantage that can’t be ignored is the fact that you can lose your home if you fail to pay your HELOC or Home Equity Loan. You really need to make sure that your financial situation isn’t stressed enough at time current time to afford repayment in the future.
Make sure that you’ve got help from mortgage professionals who will do their best to get favourable terms from your lender. Remember that you have to be smart and truly assess your financial situation before risking borrowing a home loan.
Are you ready to get a Home Equity Loan? How about getting a HELOC? Contact us so we can discuss which one will fit your needs best.
