For the most part, homeowners are familiar with home equity loans and home equity lines of credit. With either option, you are able to acquire funds for emergencies, home improvement projects, etc. Getting a line of credit and using your home's equity to your advantage is a huge benefit to owning a home. However, before completing the credit application, homeowners should carefully read and understand the credit line agreement.

How Does a Home Equity Line of Credit Work?

A home equity line of credit is a credit line that is based on your home's equity. For example, if you owe $80,000 on a $120,000 mortgage, your home's equity is $40,000. When applying for a home equity line of credit, the lender will approve you for a credit line up to the amount of your home's equity. Lines of credit are slightly different than home equity loans. While home equity loans are also based on your home's equity, homeowners obtain a lump sum of money upon approval of their loan application. These loans are generally based on a fixed rate, whereas lines of credit have variable rates.

How to Obtain Funds with a Home Equity Line of Credit

Getting money from your home equity line of credit is very simple. Once a lender approves your line of credit, you will be issued a checkbook or ATM card. Whenever you need cash, you simply write yourself a check from your credit line. Because the amount you withdraw from a line of credit varies, your monthly payments will also vary. If you prefer a predictable monthly payment, a home equity loan will best suit your needs.

Home Equity Line of Credit Prepayment Penalty

Home equity lines of credit have specific terms. Your lender may approve your line of credit for 10 to 25 years. At the end of the term, you must re-apply to obtain another credit line. Home equity lines of credit are similar to other mortgage loans in regards to prepayment penalties.

Before applying and accepting a lender's offer, carefully review the offer and inquire of prepayment penalties. With a prepayment penalty, you are charged a fee if the credit line is closed before the end of the term. Typical fees are about $500. However, if the balance on your line of credit is zero, but the account remains open for future withdrawals, prepayment fees will not apply.

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