Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) allow homeowners to tap into the value of their homes.
A home equity loan is a fixed-rate, lump-sum loan that allows homeowners to borrow up to 85% of their home’s value and pay that amount back in monthly installments. A home equity line of credit is a variable-rate second mortgage that draws on your home’s value as a revolving line of credit.
Both options use your property as collateral for your payments, which means your lender can seize your property if you can’t repay what you borrow.
$100K HELOC Loan Rates
Ideal for Medium-Sized Projects
A $100K HELOC is suitable for more extensive renovation projects or other significant financial needs. Compare the rates and terms to find the best fit for your situation.
$250K HELOC Loan Rates
Access More Funds for Major Investments
For larger projects or investments, a $250K HELOC provides the necessary funds with various LTV options. Explore these rates to determine the right balance between borrowing capacity and risk.
$500K HELOC Loan Rates
Maximize Your Borrowing Power
If you have substantial equity in your home and need significant financing, a $500K HELOC offers a great deal of borrowing power. Evaluate these options to find the optimal rate and term for your goals.
Pros and Cons of a HELOC
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| You can expect an average interest rate that's lower than other loan types | Variable interest rates fluctuate based on the federal benchmark rate, potentially increasing monthly payments |
| You only owe interest on your balance and not the full credit line amount | Your home serves as collateral, putting your home at risk of foreclosure if you default |
| You may be able to deduct interest payments from your taxes, depending on how you use your HELOC | You may be on the hook for several fees and expenses, including appraisal fees, application fees and closing costs fees |
| HELOCs can be an excellent option to consolidate your other debt payments into one monthly payment and boost your credit score | If your home’s value drops while you have a HELOC, you could end up owing more than your home is worth |
5-Year Home Equity Loan Rates (60 Months)
A 5-year term offers a shorter repayment period with typically higher monthly payments. These products are suitable for borrowers looking for a quicker payoff.
10-Year Home Equity Loan Rates (120 Months)
With a 10-year term, borrowers can enjoy a balanced monthly payment while still building equity quickly. 10-year home equity loans are ideal for medium-sized projects or financial needs.
15-Year Home Equity Loan Rates (180 Months)
A 15-year term provides lower monthly payments compared to shorter terms, offering more affordability while still progressing toward your financial goals.
20-Year Home Equity Loan Rates (240 Months)
Offering longer repayment and lower monthly payments, 20-year home equity loans are suitable for larger investments and long-term financial planning.
30-Year Home Equity Loan Rates (360 Months)
The 30-year term maximizes affordability with the lowest monthly payments. These options are best for substantial borrowing needs and long-term investments.
Pros and Cons of a Home Equity Loan
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| When you take out a home equity loan, your interest rate won't increase, even if federal rates go up | You put your property at risk of foreclosure since your home secures your loan against defaulted payments |
| Your entire loan amount is distributed in one, lump-sum payment | Lenders impose strict credit score and debt-to-income ratio requirements that make it difficult to qualify for a home equity loan |
| Home equity loans are unrestricted, meaning you can use them for almost any expense, including home renovations or auto repairs | Home equity loan lenders tend to charge expensive fees that include origination fees, appraisal fees and closing costs |
| If you use the loan to buy, build or improve your home, you can potentially deduct your interest payments from your tax return | You can have negative equity in your home if your property loses value and you end up with loan debt that exceeds its value |
What Is Home Equity?
Home equity represents how much you own of your home compared to what the bank or mortgage lender owns. If you've paid off your home in full, you have 100% equity.
You can utilize your home's equity without paying off your home in full, whether through a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). You can use your home's equity for home improvements, repairs, debt consolidation and educational costs, among other things.
How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?
A home equity loan is a lump-sum loan that allows you to borrow money by leveraging your home’s equity.
The maximum amount you're allowed to borrow is based on how much equity you have in your home, up to the amount offered by that lender. These types of loans tend to have competitive interest rates since they’re secured loans. Your home is used as collateral to secure the loan, meaning if you miss or fall behind on payments, you could face foreclosure.
How Do I Calculate Home Equity?
You'll calculate your home equity by taking your home's current value - based on its most recent appraisal - and subtracting it from your current mortgage balance.
For example, say your home is valued at $500,000 and your mortgage's outstanding balance is $250,000. This would mean you have $250,000 in home equity, and your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) would be 50%. If you're looking for a home equity loan or line of credit, lenders usually only approve up to a certain LTV ratio. For example, some lenders require 80% LTV or less.
Find the Best HELOC Rates of 2025
