What is a HELOC?
A HELOC, or a Home Equity Line of Credit, is a revolving line of credit that utilizes your home equity as collateral. HELOCs are useful for homeowners who need access to funds for major expenses, typically for emergency savings or investing/repairing properties. It functions similarly to a credit card, typically has an interest rate that’s higher than a standard mortgage, and since interest is based on the loan amount, this loan’s best use is for situations where you can keep the funds in the home as much as possible. Ex. An investor buys properties, fixes them up, sells them, and puts the money back into their home for the next investment, keeping the profits.
Who is eligible for a HELOC?
To qualify for a HELOC, you must be a homeowner who has built up equity in your property. Equity is the difference between the value of your house and the amount of money you owe on your mortgage. In addition, you must have a stable source of income and a good credit score to qualify for a HELOC.
What are the benefits of a HELOC?
One of the biggest advantages of a HELOC is the flexibility that it offers as a loan product. HELOCs give borrowers the ability to access cash in a revolving line of credit, which means that the funds can be used and repaid as needed. This provides an ongoing source of funds that can be helpful for unpredictable expenses. Other benefits of HELOCs include lower interest rates than credit cards or personal loans, the ability to borrow large sums of money over time, potential tax deductions and access to funds without selling your home.
What are the requirements for a HELOC?
The requirements for a HELOC are similar to getting other types of mortgages. The lender will typically review your credit score, income, and the equity in your home. Some common requirements for a HELOC include:
- A credit score of at least 620
- A debt-to-income ratio of less than 43%
- Appraisal of the property
- A loan-to-value ratio of less than 80%
- Proof of income
It is important to understand all the requirements and benefits of a HELOC before applying to ensure that it is the right loan product for you. Contact Tutorial Island Home Loans today to see if you qualify for a HELOC loan.
