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If you need to consolidate debt, remodel your house or buy a car, consider a home equity loan. There are tax advantages, plus the interest rates are often lower! You can choose from a traditional loan or a line of credit, where you borrow only what you need.
If you are thinking about a home equity line of credit you also might want to consider a more traditional second mortgage loan. This type of loan provides you with a fixed amount of money repayable over a fixed period. Usually the payment schedule calls for equal payments that will pay off the entire loan within that time. You might consider a traditional second mortgage loan instead of a home equity line if, for example, you need a set amount for a specific purpose, such as an addition to your home.
In deciding which type of loan best suits your needs, consider the costs under the two alternatives. Look at the APR and other charges. You cannot, however, simply compare the APR for a traditional mortgage loan with the APR for a home equity line because the APRs are figured differently.
The APR for a traditional mortgage takes into account the interest rate charged plus points and other finance charges.
The APR for a home equity line is based on the periodic interest rate alone. It does not include points or other charges.
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