A home equity loan lets you borrow against the available equity in your home, generally as a lump sum. Equity reflects the property's value relative to debt secured by it. The amount a lender offers depends on its valuation and underwriting.

How the borrowing arrangement works

Ask how the proposed loan sits alongside your existing mortgage and what costs are involved. Write both payments into the housing budget. Using home equity for a project or consolidation adds a debt secured by your home.

Costs and repayment

Compare rates, fees, repayment term and early-payoff conditions. A lower payment over a long term can still produce significant total interest. Consider the consequence of securing an expense with a home before focusing on the amount available.

Preparing to compare offers

• Prepare existing mortgage balances, ownership information and an estimate or budget for the planned use.
• Ask how valuation, closing costs and any other liens affect the available proceeds.
• Put the current mortgage and proposed new payment together in the housing budget.

Questions worth asking

• What valuation and equity does the lender use?
• Can I cover both housing payments?
• What fees apply before funding or at early closure?

Home equity remains borrowing against your home

Using the proceeds for a repair or to repay cards does not remove the collateral risk. Failure to repay can put the home at risk, even when the original mortgage payment is current.

Is a home equity loan the same as a HELOC?

No. A home equity loan generally provides a lump sum; a HELOC provides a revolving borrowing limit during its draw period.

Is my home at risk?

Yes. Your home secures the borrowing, so failing to repay can put it at risk.

BorrowCompass provides a guide to this topic at home equity loan questions to ask. Review current provider terms before making a borrowing decision. BorrowCompass does not issue loans or guarantee approval.