Spring is here! Like many other individuals, you may be contemplating about getting a second mortgage this year and asking yourself whether it will be worth it as well as what are the things you need to know. Well, you’re in luck today if you’re seeking more information about second mortgages!

Second Mortgage Definition

A second mortgage is a secured loan, with the security being the value of the homeowner’s property. It is not the same as a primary mortgage and is paid separately. A second mortgage is also the term used for any other loan secured by the home’s equity no matter how many similar loans there are.

A second mortgage is considered a mortgage because the term refers to any loan secured by real estate as collateral and need not be used for the purchase of the home itself.

As mentioned earlier, the term second mortgage applies to any home loan taken after the primary mortgage. If a second mortgage is subject to foreclosure, the primary mortgage is paid off in full first and what is left is used to pay the second mortgage.

Second Mortgage Rates

Rates for second mortgages can vary from lender to lender. An upside is that the interest rate is markedly lower than other options for loans such as unsecured personal loans or credit cards. This is because a second mortgage is backed by home equity; hence, there is some security for the lender. In comparison to a primary mortgage, the interest rate for second mortgages is still a bit higher because they carry more risk with everything considered.

Some second mortgages may have a fixed interest rate and some may have a variable rate. Having a variable rate mean that rates are adjusted from lower to higher based on market condition. Having a fixed rate just mean that payments are predictable because the interest rate remains the same throughout the course of the loan.

Types of Second Mortgages

There are 3 main types of second mortgages, home equity loans, piggyback loans, and home equity lines of credit.

• A piggyback loan is a way to save money by splitting the purchase of the home into 2 different loans.
• A home equity line of credit is a loan from which you can draw from many times over as you need.
• A home equity loan is a lump sum loan taken against the value of the house.

Get a Second Mortgage in 2019

Second mortgages under HELOCs and home equity loans require that the homeowner owns a significant value of equity in the property. Some lenders require a specific credit score, income bracket, steady employment, and other data. Some lenders are more lenient and will lend money to someone who may be self-employed or have bad credit. You just have to understand the terms and make sure to read any fine print before getting a second mortgage from a lender.

Are youapplying for a second mortgage soon? Contact us and we’ll help you assess whether it is the right type of loan for you! Wherever you may be in Ontario, the GTA, or Canada, our mortgage professionals are within easy reach. Talk to us soon!

Do you live in Toronto or the GTA and are looking for a second mortgage? We can help!