The HELOC (home equity line of credit) works as a second mortgage that offers you access to a substantial amount of money. Often this amount can go up to 85 % of the value of your home. The remaining balance is adjusted as per your ability to repay and credit worthiness. Since your home in Mississippi is one of the most valuable assets, it can be used as collateral for another loan.

So how does it work?

Let’s say that you have a $600,000 home and a half the amount of the first mortgage. Your lender is letting you access 85% of your house’s equity. So how much can you get?

$600,000 by 85% =$ 510,000
$510,000-$300,000=$ 210,000

210,000 is the maximum HELOC limit. Never forget that many HELOCs baseline interest rates vary. So, as the rates increase or decrease, your interest rate will do so too.

For your rate to be set, your lender will begin with the index rate and then create a markup that will be determined by your credit profile. Note that valuable rates can leave you vulnerable if the interest rates change.

Why do you need it?

HELOC is ideal for home upgrades and repairs. Although it’s okay for you to use this money on other important matters like using the money to buy a car or going on a vacation, this cannot increase the value of your home.

How will you get the best rates?

It’s important to compare different solutions from numerous financial institutions. The more you dig in, the more the reward. Begin with your primary bank; it may be offering its existing customers more discounts. Get a quotation and compare with other quotes you got from other competitors. So, should you get HELOC?

Well, would you like to renovate your home or have any other large expenses? Some people may access this financial help to with the day to day living expenses, but that’s not ideal. However, adding value to your house is more important as it will increase the worth of your property.

Advantages of HELOC

• You will easily access cash at a low cost since the banks make it easy to get it.
• Everything that concerns HELOC is fixed. You cannot keep going back to your bank and request them to re-approve. After negotiating and the line of credit has been set, you can go as high as the set amount whenever you like.
• You are allowed to pay as much as you want, as often as you want. This will lower the interest costs.

When to avoid HELOC

• If your income isn’t stable, getting an HELOC can be a bad idea. Your income may change with time, and failing to pay may result in an eviction from your home.
• If you know that you cannot afford the costs incurred upfront, avoid HELOC.
• If you don’t intend to borrow too much money.
• If you want to use the money for basic needs.

Getting HELOC for the right reasons is great, and it makes sense. Be sure to study the current situation and compare the quotes before you can dive in.