Home equity loans and HELOCs are financial tools that help homeowners use their home’s value to tap into a source of money. They can be used for anything from consolidating debt to financing a home renovation.
However, there are a few crucial details to be aware of before utilizing your home’s value. Learn the fundamentals of HELOCs and home equity loans to make financially responsible decisions.
Interest Rates
If you need money for home improvements, debt consolidation, or other costs, getting home equity loans Cleveland Ohio, can be a great idea. These loans have longer repayment terms — typically 20 or 30 years — and lower interest rates than other consumer debt, like credit cards.
The size of your loan and other elements, such as your credit score, will determine your interest rate. The lowest interest rates are typically available to borrowers with excellent credit.
When you use a home equity loan or line of credit, the lender assesses fees, closing costs, and interest. Ask about these fees before accepting the terms of a HELOC or home equity loan.
A second mortgage, known as a “home equity loan,” lets you utilize the value of your house as security. Major home renovations and debt consolidation are two common uses for these loans.
Tax Deductibility
Sometimes, interest paid on a home equity loan can be tax deductible. However, it’s essential to understand the rules and how this benefit affects your financial situation.
To deduct the interest from a home equity loan, you must be sure you used the funds for a specific purpose. In most instances, this will be to buy, build or substantially improve your home.
The IRS has limits on how much you can deduct from your taxes. These limits apply to both mortgages and home equity loans.
As a result, it’s essential to understand these limitations and ensure that you’re deducting the right amount of interest from your home equity loan or HELOC. If you need clarification on whether you qualify, speak with your accountant or tax professional for guidance.
Loan Amount
A lump sum of money borrowed against the value of your home’s equity is known as a home equity loan. It can be used to cover a variety of costs.
These loans are best suited for significant, fixed-cost expenses that you know will be paid off in full at closing, like home remodeling or paying for higher education. Additionally, they are wise if you want to lock in a low-interest rate and make affordable monthly payments.
However, a home equity loan or HELOC can harm your credit score. Lenders typically require borrowers to have a credit score in the mid-600 range, a debt-to-income ratio below 40%, and at least 15% of home equity.
This limit is referred to as a combined loan-to-value (CLTV) ratio and differs by lender and property type. For example, lenders often prefer owner-occupied properties to have a CLTV below 80% and investment properties to have a minimum of 70%.
Closing Costs
Property equity loans and HELOCs are great ways to borrow money against the value of your home. When planning your budget for the entire cost of your loan, consider the numerous fees and expenditures that also come with it.
Although some lenders charge more, closing expenses typically vary from 2% to 5% of the total loan amount. These charges can add up quickly, so shopping for the best interest rate is essential.
My Life, I Guess is a personal finance and career blog by Amanda Kay, an Employment Specialist and older millennial from Ontario, Canada that strives to keep the "person" in personal finance by writing about money, mistakes, and making a living. She focuses on what it’s like being in debt, living paycheck to paycheck, and surviving unemployment while also offering advice and support for others in similar situations - including a FREE library of career & job search resources.