Here in Texas there are two ways to do a home equity
loan. The two types are home equity loan and home equity
line of credit. On both of these loans there is not going
to be any prepayment penalty and you can borrow up to 80%
of the appraised value of your home. These loans can be
used to pay off bills, consolidate debt, or pay for
college. The money you borrow can be used for anything you
wish.
Home equity loans are usually offered with a fixed rate
but there are closing costs to be paid. These costs can
usually be rolled into the loan do not have to be paid out
of pocket. Depending on the loan to value (loan amount vs
appraised amount) the rates are comparable to 30 year fixed
mortgages.
Home equity line of credit loans usually come with no
closing costs. They are tied to the prime rate and are
usually adjustable. The rate will adjust according to what
the prime rate does. It is basically a credit card (line of
credit) tied to your property. While the rates are
attractive now just 3 years ago the rates were around
9%.
When considering the best loan for you here are some
questions to think about.
How long to you plan to stay in the home?
Are you going to be comfortable with the payment if the
rate adjusts? (Remember you can only do one per year)
Would you feel better with a fixed or adjustable
rate?
With the answers to these questions in mind you will be
able to make a wiser decision regarding the type of loan
that is best for you.