HELOCs work differently than Home Equity Loans. They are a revolving source of funds, much like a credit card, that you can access as you choose. Most banks offer a number of different ways to access those funds, whether it’s through an online transfer, writing a check, or using a credit card connected to your account. Unlike Home Equity Loans, they tend to have few, if any, closing costs, and they usually feature variable interest rates—though some lenders offer fixed rates for a certain number of years.1

There are pros and cons to the flexibility that credit lines offer. You can borrow against your credit line at any time, but untapped funds do not charge interest.1 In that way, it’s a nice emergency source of funds (as long as your bank doesn’t require any minimum withdrawals). If, for example, you’ve lost your job, need cash, and have equity in your home, taking out a HELOC may be a good option.

The biggest con, again, is that your home serves as collateral for a HELOC. If you’re unable to repay your HELOC for any reason, you risk losing the home to foreclosure.

Here are the key features and aspects of HELOCs:

1. Secured Loan: Like a home equity loan, a HELOC is a secured loan, which means it is backed by the value of your home. Your home serves as collateral, and if you fail to make payments, the lender can foreclose on your property.

2. Draw Period and Repayment Period: A HELOC typically consists of two phases:

   • Draw Period: During the draw period, which can last for several years (commonly 5 to 10 years), you can access funds from your credit line as needed. You are only required to make interest payments on the amount borrowed during this phase.
   • Repayment Period: After the draw period ends, you enter the repayment period, which can also last for several years (commonly 10 to 20 years). During this phase, you must repay both the principal and interest on the outstanding balance.

3. Variable Interest Rates: HELOCs often have variable interest rates, which means that the interest rate can change periodically based on market conditions. Some lenders may offer options to convert to a fixed-rate loan or fix the interest rate on a portion of the outstanding balance.

4. Credit Limit: The credit limit on a HELOC is determined by the lender and is typically based on the amount of equity in your home and your creditworthiness. You can borrow up to this limit during the draw period.

5. Revolving Credit: HELOCs operate like a credit card, allowing you to borrow, repay, and borrow again as long as you stay within the credit limit during the draw period. This flexibility can be advantageous for expenses that vary over time.

6. Interest-Only Payments: During the draw period, you are often required to make interest-only payments on the amount borrowed. This can result in lower monthly payments compared to traditional loans.

7. Tax Deductibility: In some cases, the interest paid on a HELOC may be tax-deductible, subject to certain IRS guidelines. Tax deductibility can make HELOCs attractive for certain uses, such as home improvements or debt consolidation.

8. Uses: HELOC funds can be used for various purposes, including home renovations, education expenses, debt consolidation, medical bills, and other significant financial needs. Some borrowers also use HELOCs for investment purposes, though this can be riskier.

9. Risk Considerations: Borrowing against your home’s equity carries the risk of losing your home if you fail to make the required payments. It’s essential to carefully assess your financial situation and ability to repay the loan before taking out a HELOC.

10. Fees and Costs: HELOCs may come with fees and costs, including application fees, annual fees, closing costs, and early termination fees.

11. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): Lenders typically have specific LTV ratio requirements for HELOCs, which represent the total credit limit as a percentage of your home’s appraised value. The exact LTV limit can vary by lender.

12. Termination of HELOC: At the end of the draw period, you may have the option to renew the HELOC, pay off the outstanding balance, or enter the repayment phase. Some HELOCs may have a “balloon payment” at the end of the term, requiring you to pay off the remaining balance.

Before obtaining a HELOC, carefully consider your financial goals, ability to make payments, and the specific reasons for taking out the line of credit. It’s important to shop around for the best terms, interest rates, and fees among different lenders. Additionally, consult with a financial advisor or tax professional regarding potential tax benefits and the overall financial impact of a HELOC in your specific circumstances.