Home equity loans are term loans that are taken out against the value of your home already paid or the amount of the home owned. For example, homeowners who have paid 25% of their full outstanding loan balance, say $50,000 of a $200,000 mortgage, have that much equity in their home or how much of their home they actually own.
While understanding the basics is imperative for applying for a home equity loan, knowing when to apply for one is just as important.
Here’s a quick guide to the top three reasons most homeowners take out a home equity loan:
Home repairs
Home improvement projects can be taxing on both the homeowner and the homeowner’s budget. However, if the repair is one that will add value to your home, looking into a home equity loan may be a decent option.
This is usually a great way to reinvest your home equity back into your home, especially if you’ve already paid a significant portion of your mortgage’s outstanding balance.
Debt consolidation
For those attempting to defeat high-interest rates and consolidate their credit, utilizing your home’s equity could be another excellent way to manage your financial situation. Many who have adapted to this type of refinancing have found that taking out a low-interest, term-based loan like a home equity loan helped them regain their financial standing.
By using a home equity loan, they’ve managed to reduce their monthly payments in other financial areas and regained their monthly budgets.
Life expenses
Sometimes life happens. It can also happen in a way that’s more expensive than expected or just as costly as anticipated. Regardless of whether you’re paying for a ceremony, helping with a college tuition or simply need the extra money for an unexpected circumstance, a home equity loan can help you manage your expenses.
Just as with debt consolidation or home improvement, applying for a home equity loan during your more expensive life events can help you keep the payments manageable without over stressing you or your wallet.
Home equity loans are excellent ways to make your home and monthly mortgage payments work for you.
If you find yourself wanting to reinvest in your home or simply need an extra bit of assistance, reach out to a lender of your choosing and ask what options they have available for you. They have formulas and methods that can calculate home equity loan rates based on your specific needs and circumstances.
About the Author
Jamie Jamieson
Professional Association National Association of Realtors (NAR) New York State Association of Realtors (NYSAR) Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors/ Hudson Gateway Multiple Listing Service Education I hold an A.A in Italian Studies and an A.S in Accounting as well as being one of few students accepted into the Cambridge University International Student Study Program abroad as a returning student in 2011. Community Involvement I am proud to serve on the Home & School Board for St. Augustine School in Ossining and maintain the role of a Girl Scout leader. I am an active member of the community assisting in a variety of fundraising efforts. Personal I am a young and energetic agent who prides myself on providing personalized service with honest representation whether you are buying or selling your home. My expertise of the river towns, attention to detail and excitement for real estate are a few of the many assets I will bring to you. I will utilize my eagerness and market knowledge of the area to build lasting relationships with all of my clients that will extend far beyond the closing table. Be at ease from start to finish with my help. In my spare time, I love exploring the Hudson Valley with my husband, three children and our dog, Pippin. I love scoping out the infinite restaurants, farmers markets and other fabulous activities this exciting county has to offer. Experience Before joining William Raveis Legends Realty Group I started my career with Hudson Homes Sotheby's International Realty team. Prior to real estate, I had a remarkable 15+ year career in Restaurant Management/Hospitality including Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Rivermarket and several establishments in Newport, Rhode Island. My experience in that field provided me with the foundation of excellence in customer service. Areas Covered All of Westchester County and parts of Putnam County.