What Documents Are Needed for a Home Equity Loan?

Applying for a home equity loan can be an excellent way to tap into the equity you’ve built in your property, but preparation is key. Gathering the necessary documents will ensure a smooth home equity loan application process and increase your chances of approval. But what exactly do mortgage lenders require when applying for a… Read More »

What Disqualifies You from Getting a Home Equity Loan?

Home equity loans and lines of credit have become pragmatic tools for homeowners seeking to leverage their property’s value. With average home prices stabilizing around $400,000 and interest rates hovering between 8-9% for these 2nd mortgage products, they offer a way to fund renovations, consolidate debt, or cover emergencies without refinancing the primary mortgage. Homeowners… Read More »

How Is HELOC Interest Calculated?

Homeowners love the HELOC because it is a flexible loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity they’ve built in their property. One key aspect of a HELOC that borrowers need to understand is how interest is calculated, as this impacts both the cost of borrowing and repayment plans. But what makes HELOC interest… Read More »

How Does HELOC Repayment Work?

The home equity line of credit or HELOC repayment period is a unique amortization schedule that is different than most simple interest mortgage loans. The HELOC draw period typically ranges from 10 years and a HELOC repayment period of up to 20 years. The RefiGuide published this article to examine how the HELOC repayment works… Read More »

Stated Income Home Equity Line of Credit

The stated income Home Equity Line of Credit offers homeowners a flexible way to leverage their home’s equity without the burden of traditional income verification. This financing option is particularly appealing for self-employed individuals, retirees, or those with non-traditional income sources. Let’s consider the key highlights of stated income HELOCs, their credit score and loan-to-value… Read More »

How to Get a HELOC with Bad Credit

Accessing your home’s equity is often seen as a fundamental right for U.S. homeowners. But is it possible to take out a HELOC with bad credit? Traditional banks and lenders typically emphasize credit scores during the approval process. In today’s intricate housing market, can may still qualify for a HELOC with a low credit score.… Read More »

Are HELOC Rates Fixed?

Several niche lenders recently announced the Home Equity Line of Credit  is now available as a fixed rate HELOC loan with competitive interest rates. The HELOC fixed interest rate option locks in the rates for a specific term. While most traditional home equity line of credit have variable rates, there are a few trusted lenders… Read More »

Mortgage Interest Credit Guide

In 2025, many first-time house buyers have limited resources. One proven financial tool that is the Mortgage Interest Credit, often referred to as the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) program. This federal tax credit, administered through state or local housing finance agencies (HFAs), provides eligible homeowners with a direct reduction in their federal income tax liability… Read More »

Can I Get a Second Mortgage to Buy Another House?

A second mortgage program like a home equity loan or HELOC, allows you to borrow against your primary home’s equity to buy of another home, whether for investment (e.g., rental or fix-and-flip) or personal use (e.g., vacation home). This 2nd-mortgage loan offers lower interest rates than unsecured loans and potential tax benefits, but it carries… Read More »

Home Equity Line of Credit Prime Minus 1

Unlike a traditional second mortgage, a HELOC offers a revolving line of credit, allowing borrowers to draw funds as needed up to a set limit and pay interest only on the amount used. A home equity line of credit with a “prime minus 1” interest rate is particularly attractive due to its potential for lower… Read More »