Carrie Reeder asked:


The options for tapping into your home equity are numerous. Some homeowners choose to refinance, while others take advantage of home equity loans. A home equity line of credit is a great option for homeowners who want access to their home’s equity over a length of time. There are benefits to a home equity line of credit. However, to avoid the pitfalls of these types of loan, consider the following.

What are Home Equity Lines of Credit?

Home equity lines of credit are revolving credit accounts that are protected by your home. The term revolving credit is often associated with high interest credit cards. However, lines of credit differ from credit cards. For starters, lines of credit are easier to qualify for. The interest rates are significantly lower than most credit cards, and home equity lines of credit are tax deductible.

Common Uses of a Home Equity Loan

Home equity loans are often obtained for large expenses. These are best used for financing home improvement projects, debt consolidation, paying for a child’s college expenses, etc. Additionally, some homeowners obtain home equity lines of credit as a means of having a cash reserve in the event of an emergency.

Pros and Cons of Home Equity Line of Credit

While this home equity option is useful, there are advantages and disadvantages. The benefits surround the ability to payoff high interest credit card debts and other consumer loans.

If using a line of credit for debt consolidation, homeowners will simplify their lives by having a single debt payment, as opposed to several. Furthermore, because of lower rates, homeowners are able to repay a home equity line of credit much sooner.

The disadvantage of home equity lines of credit is that your home serves as collateral for the loan. If for any reason you are unable to repay the loan, the lender may claim your property. This results in losing your home and equity. To avoid foreclosure, borrow a modest amount of money. Also, repay the funds promptly. The problems lies when people think of home equity lines of credit as free money, and begin borrowing and spending frivolously.

Carrie Reeder asked:


For the most part, homeowners are familiar with home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. With either option, you are able to acquire funds for emergencies, home improvement projects, etc. Getting a line of credit and using your home’s equity to your advantage is a huge benefit to owning a home. However, before completing the credit application, homeowners should carefully read and understand the credit line agreement.

How Does a Home Equity Line of Credit Work?

A home equity line of credit is a credit line that is based on your home’s equity. For example, if you owe $80,000 on a $120,000 mortgage, your home’s equity is $40,000. When applying for a home equity line of credit, the lender will approve you for a credit line up to the amount of your home’s equity. Lines of credit are slightly different than home equity loans. While home equity loans are also based on your home’s equity, homeowners obtain a lump sum of money upon approval of their loan application. These loans are generally based on a fixed rate, whereas lines of credit have variable rates.

How to Obtain Funds with a Home Equity Line of Credit

Getting money from your home equity line of credit is very simple. Once a lender approves your line of credit, you will be issued a checkbook or ATM card. Whenever you need cash, you simply write yourself a check from your credit line. Because the amount you withdraw from a line of credit varies, your monthly payments will also vary. If you prefer a predictable monthly payment, a home equity loan will best suit your needs.

Home Equity Line of Credit Prepayment Penalty

Home equity lines of credit have specific terms. Your lender may approve your line of credit for 10 to 25 years. At the end of the term, you must re-apply to obtain another credit line. Home equity lines of credit are similar to other mortgage loans in regards to prepayment penalties.

Before applying and accepting a lender’s offer, carefully review the offer and inquire of prepayment penalties. With a prepayment penalty, you are charged a fee if the credit line is closed before the end of the term. Typical fees are about $500. However, if the balance on your line of credit is zero, but the account remains open for future withdrawals, prepayment fees will not apply.