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Best HELOC Lenders October 2024

A home equity line of credit, is a revolving credit line that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes, typically with a variable interest rate. Comparing the best HELOC providers: choosing the right HELOC provider is crucial.

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Key Facts

  • Mortgage Types: Home Equity
  • Min. Credit Score: 640
  • APR: Varied
  • NMLS#: 1810501

Pros

pros iconDoes not require a first mortgage refinance

pros iconOne easy monthly payment

pros iconConsolidate high-interest debt under a single, fixed-rate payment

pros icon10 and 15 year terms available

Cons

cons iconNot available in all states

cons iconExclusive to homeowners

*Financial solutions are offered by affiliates of Achieve.com (NMLS #138464, Equal Housing Lender) or their service providers. Terms and conditions apply. Not all solutions are available in each state.

¹Personal loans are available through our affiliate Achieve Personal Loans (NMLS ID #227977), originated by Cross River Bank, a New Jersey State Chartered Commercial Bank or Pathward®, N.A., Equal Housing Lenders and may not be available in all states. All loan and rate terms are subject to eligibility restrictions, application review, credit score, loan amount, loan term, lender approval, credit usage and history. Loans are not available to residents of all states. Minimum loan amounts vary due to state specific legal restrictions. Loan amounts generally range from $5,000 to $50,000, vary by state and are offered based on meeting underwriting conditions and loan purpose. APRs range from 8.99 to 35.99% and include applicable origination fees. Repayment periods range from 24 to 60 months. Example loan: four-year $20,000 loan with an origination fee of 6.99%, a rate of 15.49% and corresponding APR of 19.54%, would have an estimated monthly payment of $561.60 and a total cost of $26,956.80. To qualify for a 8.99% APR loan, a borrower will need excellent credit, a loan amount less than $12,000.00, and a term of 24 months. Loan origination fees vary from 1.99% to 6.99%. Adding a co-borrower with sufficient income; using at least eighty-five percent (85%) of the loan proceeds to pay off qualifying existing debt directly; or showing proof of sufficient retirement savings, could help you also qualify for lower rates. Funding time periods are estimates and can vary for each loan request. Same day decisions assume a completed application with all required supporting documentation submitted early enough on a day that our offices are open. Achieve Personal Loans hours are Monday-Friday 6am-8pm MST, and Saturday-Sunday 7am-4pm MST

²Home Equity loans are available through our affiliate Achieve Loans (NMLS ID #1810501), Equal Housing Lender. All loan and rate terms are subject to eligibility restrictions, application review, credit score, loan amount, loan term, lender approval, and credit usage and history. Home loans are a line of credit. Loans are not available to residents of all states and available loan terms/fees may vary by state where offered. Line amounts are between 15,000 and $150,000 and are assigned based on debt to income and loan to value. Example: average HELOC is $57,150 with an APR of 12.75% and estimated monthly payment of $951 for a 15-year loan. Minimum 640 credit score applies to debt consolidation requests, minimum 670 applies to cash out requests. Other conditions apply. Fixed rate APRs range from 10.25% – 16.50% and are assigned based on credit worthiness, combined loan to value, lien position and automatic payment enrollment (autopay enrollment is not a condition of loan approval). 10 and 15 year terms available. Both terms have a 5 year draw period. Payments are fully amortized during each period and determined on the outstanding principal balance each month. Closing fees range from $750 to $6,685, depending on line amount and state law requirements and generally include origination (2.5% of line amount minus fees) and underwriting ($725) fees if allowed by law. Property must be owner-occupied and combined loan to value may not exceed 80%, including the new loan request. Property insurance is required as a condition of the loan and flood insurance may be required if the subject property is located in a flood zone. You must pledge your home as collateral and could lose your home if you fail to repay. Contact Achieve Loans for further details.

Average funding is 15 to 18 days from completed loan application and documentation submission and includes closing and rescission.

**In the event you submit an application a hard credit inquiry will be conducted that will temporarily affect your credit score.

  • check mark Lower your monthly payments. Competitive rates
  • check mark Pre-qualify in minutes. Funding as fast as 15 days
  • check mark Mortgage Advisors ready to help find the best solution
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Key Facts

  • Mortgage Types: Refinance, Home Equity
  • Min. Credit Score: 640
  • APR: 6.25% - 15.40%
  • NMLS#: 1717824

Pros

pros iconLow fixed rates

pros iconSecured online application and quick funding time

pros iconExcellent TrustPilot rating

Cons

cons iconAn origination fee

cons iconGood or excellent credit required

Figure Disclaimer: Figure Lending LLC dba Figure. 15720 Brixham Hill Avenue, Suite 300, Charlotte, NC 28277. (888) 819-6388. NMLS ID 1717824.

For licensing information, go to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Equal Opportunity Lender. Equal Housing Opportunity. This site is not authorized by the New York State Department of Financial Services. No mortgage solicitation activity or loan applications for properties located in the State of New York can be facilitated through this site.

As a representative example, an eligible borrower obtained a loan amount of $15,000 with a 5% origination fee at an interest rate of 9.65% for 36 months. That would include an origination fee of $750.00 for an APR of 13.204%. They would receive $14,250.00 and make 36 monthly payments of $481.55. Loan amounts range from $5,000 to $50,000; loan term lengths are 36 months or 60 months.

California loans are made and arranged according to a Finance Lenders Law License. Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Finance Lenders Law (License 60DBO81967). To check the rates and terms you qualify for, we will conduct a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. Yet, if you continue and submit an application, we will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit.

Next Day Funding requires the application to be approved and documents signed before 4 p.m. PST or 7 p.m. EST. Please check with your institution to ensure funds availability before attempting to access the funds. Limit one $100 bonus per customer. The bonus will be deposited in the Figure Pay account within 30 days of the second consecutive deposit, satisfying the requirements for the bonus.

HELOC:* Approval may be granted in five minutes but is ultimately subject to verification of income and employment, as well as verification that your property is in at least average condition with a property condition report. Five business day funding timeline assumes closing the loan with our remote online notary. Funding timelines may be longer for loans secured by properties located in counties that do not permit recording of e-signatures or that otherwise require an in-person closing.

*Available APRs range from 6.25% – 15.40%*, which includes the payment of a higher origination fee in exchange for a reduced interest rate, which is not available to all applicants or in all states. (The advertised APR includes a combined 0.50% discount for opting into a credit union membership (0.25%) and enrolling in autopay (0.25%) as well as payment of higher origination fee in exchange for a reduced rate, which is not available to all applicants or in all states.)

The lowest APRs are only available to the most qualified applicants, depending on credit profile and the state where the property is located, and those who also select five year loan terms; APRs will be higher for other applicants and those who select longer loan terms. As a representative example, for a borrower with a 60% CLTV and a 740 credit score who is eligible for and chooses to pay a 4.99% origination fee in exchange for a reduced APR on a five-year Figure Home Equity Line with an initial draw amount of $50,000 would have a fixed annual percentage rate (APR) of 9.00%. The total loan amount would be $54,500. Alternatively, a borrower with the same credit profile who pays a 3.99% origination fee would have an APR of 9.4% and a total loan amount of $54,700. Your actual rate will depend on many factors such as your credit, combined loan to-value ratio, loan term, occupancy status, and whether you are eligible for and choose to pay a higher origination fee in exchange for a lower rate. Rates change frequently so your exact APR will depend on the date you apply. APRs for home equity lines of credit do not include costs other than interest. You will be responsible for an origination fee of up to 4.99% of your initial draw, depending on the state in which your property is located and your credit profile. You may also be responsible for paying the costs of valuation if an AVM is not available for your property ($180), manual notarization if your county doesn’t permit eNotary ($380), and recording fees ($0 – $315) and recording taxes, which vary by state and county ($0-$1,400 per one hundred thousand dollars borrowed). Property insurance is required as a condition of the loan and flood insurance may be required if your property is located in a flood zone.

  • check mark Borrow up to $400k, flexible HELOC terms
  • check mark 100% digital app & online appraisal
  • check mark Excellent rating on TrustPilot
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Key Facts

  • Mortgage Types: Purchase, Refinance, Jumbo, Fixed, Adjustable, FHA, VA, USDA
  • Min. Credit Score: 620
  • APR: Undisclosed
  • NMLS#: 167283

Pros

pros iconRate Lock

pros iconOnline application process

pros iconGood reputation for customer satisfaction

pros iconPre-approval available

Cons

cons iconFees could potentially be high

cons iconNo physical branches available

Rocket Mortgage Disclaimer: ©2000 – 2020 Quicken Loans, LLC. All rights reserved. Lending services provided by Quicken Loans, LLC., a subsidiary of Rock Holdings Inc. “Quicken Loans” is a registered service mark of Intuit Inc., used under license. Quicken Loans® (also doing business as Rocket HQ), Rocket Homes Real Estate LLC, and Rocket Loans® are separate operating subsidiaries of Rock Holdings Inc. Each company is a separate legal entity operated and managed through its own management and governance structure as required by its state of incorporation and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.

  • check mark Powerful home equity solutions
  • check mark Free loan calculators
  • check mark Get rates from our providers
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Key Facts

  • No Hard Credit Check With AmeriValue
  • AmeriValue Compares Hundreds of Reputable Lenders
  • Find Options In Minutes
  • NMLS # 3175 - 2045

Pros

pros iconAccess to a long list of reputable lenders

pros iconQuick process to see the available options

pros iconNo hard credit check on the marketplace

pros iconAbility to get a wide range of loan terms

Cons

cons iconNot a direct lender

cons iconDoesn't have the best customer support

Amerivalue is an online news and information service providing editorial content and directory information about mortgages and loans. Amerivalue is not a lender or mortgage broker and does not offer loans or mortgages directly or indirectly through representatives or agents.

  • check mark Quickly Compare Hundreds of Reputable Lenders
  • check mark Find A Wide Range of Loan Types in Minutes
  • check mark Find Terms That Fit Your Needs
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Key Facts

  • Mortgage Types: Home equity
  • Min. Credit Score: 550
  • APR: Undisclosed

Pros

pros iconProvides flexibility to use cash for a variety of purposes without incurring monthly payments or interest charges

pros iconOffers the opportunity to buy back equity at any time during the agreement

pros iconDesigned to be a flexible option for homeowners who may not qualify for traditional home equity loans or credit lines

pros iconCan help homeowners facing financial hardship or who are looking for a way to access the equity in their property

Cons

cons iconInvolves giving up a stake in the future value of your home

cons iconEach home equity agreement is subject to individual underwriting review, which means that not all borrowers may qualify

cons iconMay not be suitable for homeowners who are looking to borrow a large amount of money or who need a long-term financial solution

cons iconSome homeowners may prefer the security of a traditional loan or credit line that is secured by their home as collateral

Unlock Agreements are provided exclusively by Unlock Partnership Solutions Inc., Unlock Partnership Solutions AO1 Inc., Unlock Partnership Solutions AO2 Inc., and Unlock Homeownership Solutions Inc., all of which are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Unlock Technologies, Inc. (collectively, “Unlock”).
The applicable Unlock entity enters into the Unlock Agreements directly with consumers and does not act as an agent or broker on behalf of any third-party. No agency relationship shall be formed between any Unlock entity and a consumer pursuant to or in connection with an Unlock Agreement. All Rights Reserved.
*Application to funding may take over 60 days to complete. Funding timelines may vary depending on factors, including, but not limited to appraisal turnaround times and follow-ups required for verification of property details and a clear title.
Liens or any interest secured on the property by MV Realty must be paid off and removed as a condition to close.
Terms and conditions apply.

  • check mark Minimum credit score as low as 550
  • check mark No obligation; quote within a few minutes
  • check mark Quick and easy online experience
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Key Facts

  • VA Rate Guide is a marketplace that works with 100s of lenders
  • Parent company has been operating since 2001
  • Not subject to a hard credit check

Pros

pros iconQuickly compare VA loans

pros iconOnly works with reputable lenders

pros iconDoesn't carry out a hard credit check

pros iconEasy online process

Cons

cons iconThe website doesn't provide too much information

VA RATE GUIDE is an online news and information service providing editorial content and directory information about mortgages and loans. VA RATE GUIDE is not a lender or mortgage broker and does not offer loans or mortgages directly or indirectly through representatives or agents.

  • check mark Compare 100+ VA loan lenders within minutes
  • check mark No hard credit check is necessary
  • check mark Only works with trustworthy lenders
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Key Facts

  • Mortgage Types: Purchase, Refinance
  • Min. Credit Score: 620
  • APR: Varies
  • NMLS#: 3175

Pros

pros iconOver 200 lending partners

pros iconA variety of home loan types

pros iconFast, intuitive, detailed questionnaire

Cons

cons iconNo loan fee information

cons iconDoesn’t always find you a loan

HomeEquityQuiz is an online news and information service providing editorial content and directory information about mortgages and loans. HomeEquityQuiz is not a lender or mortgage broker and does not offer loans or mortgages directly or indirectly through representatives or agents. HomeEquityQuiz does not provide an application for credit or a mortgage loan. HomeEquityQuiz is not responsible for the accuracy of information or responsible for the accuracy of the rates, APR or loan information posted by brokers, lenders or advertisers. All trademarks and logos appearing on this site are the property of their respective owners. Their appearance on this site does not indicate or imply an endorsement of our product.

  • check mark Marketplace with over 200 lending partners
  • check mark Fast and intuitive questionnaire
  • check mark Application with no hard credit pull
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Key Facts

  • CashOutEquity.com is a marketplace that works with 100s of lenders
  • Parent company has been operating since 2001
  • Not subject to a hard credit check

Pros

pros iconAllows people to quickly compare options

pros iconLow barrier to entry

pros iconNo initial hard credit check

pros iconOnly works with trustworthy lenders

Cons

cons iconNot a ton of information on the website

The actual interest rate, APR and payment you are offered may vary based on the specific terms of the loan selected, verification of information, your credit history, the location and type of property, and other factors as determined by Lenders.

  • check mark Quickly compare 100+ lenders
  • check mark Online form takes just minutes to complete
  • check mark CashOutEquity.com doesn't do a hard credit check

What is a home equity line of credit, or HELOC?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit secured by the equity in your home. Unlike traditional loans, where you receive a lump sum upfront, a HELOC allows you to draw funds as and when you need them, up to a predetermined limit. This flexibility makes it a popular choice for homeowners who want to tap into their home's value without selling. The interest rates for HELOCs are typically variable, which means they can rise or fall based on market indices.

What are today's average HELOC rates?

HELOC rates are influenced by various factors, including the Federal Reserve's actions, economic conditions, and the lender's internal criteria. The average HELOC rate hovers around 7.80%-9.71%. However, these rates can change frequently.

How to Get the Best HELOC Rate?

Securing a favorable HELOC rate can save you thousands over the loan's life. Here's how:

  1. Boost Your Credit Score: A higher score can unlock lower rates. Regularly check your credit report for errors and pay off outstanding debts.
  2. Research and Compare: Different HELOC lenders offer varying rates. Use online comparison tools and visit local banks and credit unions.
  3. Consider Rate Caps: HELOCs have rate caps that limit how much your rate can increase over time. A lower cap can protect you from drastic rate hikes.
  4. Understand the Market: Familiarize yourself with current economic conditions. If rates are expected to rise, consider locking in a rate.

How Does a HELOC Work?

A HELOC has two phases: the draw period and the repayment period. During the draw period, you can borrow up to your limit, and you're typically only required to make interest payments. This period can last up to 10 years. Afterward, the repayment period begins, usually lasting 10-20 years, where you pay back both principal and interest.

Who is a HELOC Best For?

A HELOC is ideal for those who:

  1. Anticipate large expenses spread out over time, like multiple home projects or college tuition payments.
  2. Are disciplined spenders and can manage the temptation of having accessible credit.
  3. Have a plan to tackle potential rate increases or can pay off the loan early.

What Can You Use A HELOC For?

HELOC for Home Improvements:

  • Purpose: Many homeowners tap into their HELOC to fund home renovations and improvements. Whether it's remodeling a kitchen, adding a new room, or landscaping the garden, a HELOC can provide the necessary funds.
  • Benefits: Investing in home improvements can increase the property's value, potentially offering a higher return on investment when selling. Additionally, certain improvements can enhance the quality of living for the residents.
  • Considerations: It's essential to budget and plan the renovations carefully to ensure the borrowed amount aligns with the project's costs.

Debt Consolidation with HELOC:

  • Purpose: Many homeowners tap into their HELOC to fund home renovations and improvements. Whether it's remodeling a kitchen, adding a new room, or landscaping the garden, a HELOC can provide the necessary funds.
  • Benefits: Investing in home improvements can increase the property's value, potentially offering a higher return on investment when selling. Additionally, certain improvements can enhance the quality of living for the residents.
  • Considerations: It's essential to budget and plan the renovations carefully to ensure the borrowed amount aligns with the project's costs.

Debt Consolidation with HELOC:

  • Purpose: A HELOC can be used to consolidate high-interest debts, such as credit card balances or personal loans, into a single, lower-interest payment.
  • Benefits: Consolidating debts can simplify financial management, reduce monthly payments, and save on interest costs over time.
  • Considerations: While this strategy can be beneficial, it's crucial to avoid accumulating new high-interest debt after consolidation.

HELOC for Emergencies:

  • Purpose: Life is unpredictable. A HELOC can act as a financial safety net for unforeseen expenses like medical emergencies, sudden home repairs, or unexpected personal events.
  • Benefits: Having a ready line of credit can provide peace of mind, ensuring you have access to funds when you need them most.
  • Considerations: It's essential to differentiate between genuine emergencies and discretionary spending to avoid unnecessary debt.

HELOC for Business Investments:

  • Purpose: Entrepreneurs and business owners might use a HELOC to fund a startup, expand an existing business, or cover short-term cash flow gaps.
  • Benefits: Using a HELOC can be a quicker and less bureaucratic way to secure business financing compared to traditional business loans.
  • Considerations: While a HELOC can provide the necessary capital, it's crucial to remember that your home secures the line of credit. Ensure a clear business plan and repayment strategy to mitigate risks.

How do I qualify for a HELOC?

Qualifying for a HELOC involves several factors:

  1. Home Equity: Typically, you'll need at least 20% equity in your home.
  2. Credit History: Past financial behavior can indicate future reliability.
  3. Debt-to-Income Ratio: Lenders prefer a ratio below 43%, ensuring you can manage the additional debt.
  4. Appraisal: Some lenders may require a professional appraisal of your home.

Pros and Cons of HELOCs

Pros:

  • Flexibility in borrowing and repayment.
  • Potential tax benefits if used for home improvements.
  • Competitive interest rates compared to credit cards.

Cons:

  • Risk of losing your home if you default.
  • The temptation to overspend due to easy access to funds.
  • Fluctuating payments due to variable interest rates.

Alternatives to a HELOC

HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan

Both HELOCs and home equity loans allow homeowners to borrow against the equity in their homes, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features:

  Home Equity Loan HELOC
Nature This is a second mortgage that provides a one-time lump sum amount It's a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card
Interest Rate Typically comes with a fixed interest rate, ensuring consistent monthly payments Usually has a variable interest rate, which can fluctuate over time
Use Ideal for homeowners who have a specific project or expense in mind, such as a major home renovation Suitable for those who need flexibility in borrowing over time, such as ongoing home projects or education expenses
Repayment Regular monthly payments that cover both the principal and interest Interest-only payments during the draw period, followed by principal and interest payments during the repayment phase

Both options tap into home equity but differ in distribution and interest. A home equity loan gives you a lump sum with a fixed interest rate, making it predictable. In contrast, a HELOC offers flexibility but comes with variable interest rates, which can be unpredictable.

HELOC vs. cash-out refinance

Both options allow homeowners to access their home's equity, but they function differently:

 

Cash-Out Refinance

HELOC
Nature This involves replacing your existing mortgage with a new one for a larger amount than what you currently owe A separate line of credit that doesn't affect your existing mortgage
Interest Rate Typically fixed, but variable rates are available  Typically variable.
Use Can be used for any purpose, from home improvements to debt consolidation Offers flexibility in borrowing, making it suitable for varied expenses over time

While both allow homeowners to tap into their home's equity, a cash-out refinance replaces the original mortgage with a new, larger one, and you receive the difference in cash. This option can be beneficial if current mortgage rates are lower than your existing rate. A HELOC remains separate from your primary mortgage, providing a line of credit based on your home's equity.

Other Alternatives to a HELOC

Personal Loans vs. HELOC:

  • Nature: Personal loans are unsecured, meaning they don't require collateral.
  • Interest Rate: Fixed interest rates, ensuring consistent monthly payments.
  • Use: Suitable for various purposes, from debt consolidation to vacations.
  • Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a set term.

Credit Cards:

  • Nature: Revolving line of credit with a set limit.
  • Interest Rate: Typically higher than HELOCs and personal loans.
  • Use: Suitable for everyday expenses or short-term needs.
  • Repayment: Minimum monthly payments with the option to pay in full.

Savings or Investments:

  • Nature: Using your saved money or liquidating assets.
  • Use: This can be a quick way to access funds without borrowing.
  • Considerations: Liquidating investments might have tax implications or result in a loss if sold at a low market value.