Differences Between a Home Equity Line and Loan
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Differences Between a Home Equity Line and Loan

There are basically two types of home equity loans: a home equity loan (HEL) or a home equity line of credit (HELOC).

There are basically two types of home equity loans: a home equity loan (HEL) or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Since the debt is secured by your home, the interest rate is typically less than that of a credit card or personal loan. Also, the interest paid on the loan may be tax deductible. (Always check with your tax or financial advisor before making any tax-related decisions).

Home Equity Loan (HEL)

A home equity loan, also referred to as a second mortgage, is best used in situations where you intend to use the funds for a specific purpose, like home improvements or a car purchase. The interest rate and the monthly payments are fixed. These get paid back in installments over a fixed period of time, typically 5-15 years. While the time to repay a loan is shorter than that of a traditional mortgage, borrowers like the certainty of having a fixed rate and fixed monthly payments.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A home equity line of credit is a revolving line of credit that allows you to access the funds as you need, instead of all at once. The interest rate is variable and in most cases tied to prime. The rate for which you qualify is usually based on your creditworthiness and your ability to repay the loan.

Advantages and disadvantages of using each type of loan

Knowing when to use which type of loan depends on your specific circumstances. If you have a long term remodeling project which requires cash installments over time, then a line of credit makes sense. If your home needs a major upgrade and you are making one large payment, then the stability of a home equity loan may be a better choice.

Advantages of HELs and HELOC
HEL (Home Equity Loan) HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit
Fixed interest rate. Although you pay interest on the entire borrowed amount, your rate is locked in if rates swing upward. Variable interest rate. You pay interest on the amount you access from your line of credit, rather than the entire loan amount.
Attractive interest rates (lower than credit cards or personal loans). Attractive interest rates (lower than credit cards or personal loans).
Loan interest may be tax-deductible. Loan interest may be tax-deductible.
There is one lump sum of money borrowed. Access to money as you need it.
Set monthly payments make it easier to estimate your expenses. As you borrow more, the minimum repayment will increase. However, interest-only repayment options are available.
Can link into a relationship banking product to receive rate discounts, free services, or added benefits. Can link into a relationship banking product to receive rate discounts, free services, or added benefits.

Disadvantages of HELs and HELOCs
HEL (Home Equity Loan) HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit
Required to borrow the entire amount upfront whether used or not. Knowing money is available at any time can be tempting.
Fixed payments can take up to 15 years to repay Variable interest rate could adjust upward.
There are usually fees that add costs to the loan amount. There are usually fees that add costs to the loan amount.
Repayment of interest and principal begins as soon as you receive the money. Interest-only repayment options are available from most lenders.
If you cannot repay or refinance the loan, then you may be forced to sell or lose your home. If you cannot repay or refinance the loan, then you may be forced to sell or lose your home.

While the advantages for both types of loans may sound appealing, carefully evaluate whether the benefits each has to offer is worth incurring the additional debt. Compare home equity rates.

Ari Socolow
Ari Socolow: Ari Socolow is the Chief Economist and Editor-in-Chief at BestCashCow. He is particularly interested in issues relating to bank transparency and the climate crisis. Since co-founding BestCashCow in 2005, Ari has been frequently cited in the media as an expert on local and national savings accounts, CD products, mortgage and loan products and credit card rewards products.

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Featured - Home Equity Line Of Credit Rates 2024

Lender APR (%)? Monthly Payment? Learn More
Third Federal Savings and Loan
Third Federal Savings and Loan
7.490 %
$0 Learn More
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AmeriSave Mortgage Corporation
AmeriSave Mortgage Corporation
0.000 %
$0 Learn More
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Figure Home Equity Line
Figure Home Equity Line
0.000 %
$0 Learn More
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New American Funding, LLC
New American Funding, LLC
0.000 %
$0 Learn More
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