A home equity line of credit is like a home equity loan in that the house is used as collateral. However, home equity lines of credit allow borrowers to set up a credit line that can be used much like a credit card. During a period of time, usually five to ten years, the homeowner is able to take large or small amounts from the account until the drawing period ends or the amount of the loan is exhausted. This type of loan is an adjustable rate mortgage, which varies with the market.

The reverse mortgage is also an adjustable rate mortgage, but is unique because the homeowner (who must be 62 years or older) is at no time obligated to make monthly payments on the loan. The amount of the equity on the home is made available to the owner in full, in monthly advances or as a line of credit, only to be repaid after the life of the owner through the sale of the home or by the family if they would like to keep the home.

Since home equity is something one already owns in a sense, home equity loans carry less risk than other loans. The benefit of this diminished risk is felt by the borrower through lower interest rates and lower monthly payments. Apply online to take advantage of the equity on your home.

Home equity is the amount of the value of your home that you own, meaning what you have already paid for. This amount can be calculated by subtracting your mortgage from the total market value of your home. For example a house worth $180,000 with a $100,000 mortgage has an equity of $80,000. Generally, lenders will allow a homeowner to borrow 80-85% of their home equity. Fill out our short form to contact lenders about your home equity loan. Alternatively, a secured home equity loans application can be found here.