How Much Equity Can I Borrow From My Home?

What factors increase the amount I can borrow?

The amount you can borrow through an equity-backed loan depends on several factors. Here are some ways you can increase your borrowing capacity and potentially secure a larger loan.

• High credit score: A high credit score indicates to lenders that you are a responsible borrower. This can lead to lower interest rates and higher loan amounts.
• Low Debt-to-Income Ratio: A low debt-to-income ratio (DTI) shows that you have a manageable debt load relative to your income. Lenders prefer borrowers with a lower debt-to-income ratio, as it suggests a greater ability to repay the loan.
• Significant equity: The more equity you have in your home, the more you can borrow. Equity is the difference between the current market value of your home and the outstanding mortgage balance.
• Stable income: A consistent and reliable income stream demonstrates your ability to make regular loan payments. Lenders are more likely to approve larger loans to borrowers with stable employment and income.
• Strong property value: A home with a high appraised value can increase your borrowing capacity. Lenders are more willing to lend against properties that are likely to appreciate in value over time.
• Shop around for lenders: Comparing offers from multiple lenders can help you find the best terms and conditions. Different lenders may have varying criteria for loan approval and borrowing limits.

How much equity are U.S. homeowners borrowing?

According to ICE Mortgage Technology, a typical U.S. homeowner has about $200,000 in tappable equity. However, based on data from a recent HomeLight lender survey, the most common home equity loan borrowing range is $76,000 to $100,000.

What are common reasons homeowners use equity?

The funds from your equity-backed loan can be used for any purpose you choose. In HomeLight’s 2024 survey of loan officers throughout the U.S., 88% say that the top reason homeowners choose to borrow against equity is debt consolidation.

Accessing money for home improvements and purchasing another property where the next two most common responses.

What might not be a good use of my equity?

While tapping into your home equity can provide financial flexibility, it’s important to consider how you use it. Not every expense is worth financing with home equity, as some purchases could leave you with long-term debt without offering lasting value.

Here are a few things that might not be a smart use of your equity:

• Purchasing items that lose value quickly: Big-ticket items like cars, RVs, or boats depreciate rather quickly. Using home equity for these purchases could leave you owing more on a loan than the item is worth in a few years.
• Unnecessary luxury purchases: Splurging on designer goods or the latest high-end electronics may be tempting, but it can result in debt with little long-term benefit.
• Holiday shopping sprees: Using equity to finance a season of extravagant gift-giving could lead to lingering debt long after the festivities are over.
• Lavish vacations: While memories of a dream trip may last, paying for it with home equity could mean facing a financial burden long after the vacation is over.
• Covering everyday expenses: If you find yourself needing home equity to pay for monthly bills, it could be a sign of a deeper financial issue that home equity may only mask.
• Risky investments: Using home equity to invest in stocks or other speculative ventures can be risky. A market downturn could leave you with both a loan to repay and potential financial losses.
• Purchasing investment property without experience: If you’re not well-versed in real estate investing, using home equity to buy a rental or investment property could backfire if the market doesn’t perform as expected.
• Paying for education without exploring other options: Before tapping into home equity to cover educational expenses, look into scholarships, grants, or federal student loan programs, which may offer more affordable ways to finance education.

Pros and cons of borrowing against equity

Borrowing against your home equity can be a smart way to access funds, but like any financial decision, it comes with both advantages and risks. Here’s a look at the pros and cons to help you weigh your options:

Pros

• Lower interest rates: Home equity loans and lines of credit typically offer lower interest rates compared to credit cards or personal loans since they’re secured by your home. This can make borrowing more affordable over time.
• Large borrowing amounts: Because your loan is secured by your home, you can usually borrow a significant amount, making it ideal for big expenses like renovations or consolidating high-interest debt.
• Potential tax benefits: In some cases, the interest paid on home equity loans may be tax-deductible if you use the money to substantially improve your home. Be sure to consult a tax professional to see if this applies to your situation.
• Flexible use: Unlike some loans, borrowing against your home equity gives you the freedom to use the funds however you choose, whether it’s for home improvements, medical expenses, or educational costs.

Cons

• Risk of losing your home: Since your home is collateral, failing to make payments on a home equity loan or line of credit could lead to foreclosure. Therefore, it is crucial to borrow only what you can confidently repay.
• Potential for long-term debt: Home equity loans often have repayment periods of 10-30 years. Taking on this debt for short-term expenses could mean you’re paying for it long after the benefit has faded.
• Fees and closing costs: Borrowing against your equity can come with upfront costs, including application fees, appraisals, and closing costs, which might offset the financial benefit, depending on how much you need to borrow.
• Market fluctuations: The value of your home could decrease, leaving you with less equity than expected or even “underwater” if your loan exceeds the home’s value.

FAQs about ‘How much equity can I borrow?’

How long does it take to get a home equity loan?
The process of getting a home equity loan typically takes two to six weeks. This timeline includes the application, approval, home appraisal, and closing. The exact timing can vary depending on the lender and how quickly you provide the necessary documentation.

How do I qualify for a home equity loan?
To qualify for a home equity loan, you’ll generally need at least 15%-20% equity in your home, a solid credit score (usually 620 or higher), a stable income, and a low debt-to-income ratio. Lenders will also consider your home’s value and your outstanding mortgage balance.

How can I grow my home equity?
You can grow your home equity by paying down your mortgage and increasing your home’s value. Making extra payments on your mortgage reduces the principal balance faster, and home improvements or rising property values in your area can also boost equity.

How much does a home equity loan cost?
The cost of a home equity loan varies, but you’ll typically pay interest, along with closing costs, appraisal fees (if required), and application fees. Average total costs for a home equity loan are 2%–5% of the loan amount, but can be as low as 1%. In most cases, the more you borrow, the higher the fees will be.

How do I get a home equity loan?
To get a home equity loan, you’ll need to apply with a lender who will assess your home’s value, your mortgage balance, and your credit. If approved, you’ll receive a lump sum of money that you’ll repay over a set period, usually at a fixed interest rate. The HELOC application process is the same, but you’ll be approved for a revolving credit account similar to a credit card and have an adjustable interest rate.

Can I use my equity to buy before I sell?
Yes, you can use your home equity to help finance a new home before selling your current one. HomeLight’s Buy Before You Sell program allows you to unlock your equity and buy your next home without the pressure of selling first. You can make a stronger, non-contingent offer on your new home and only move once. Learn more by watching this short video:

Is borrowing against my home equity right for me?

Deciding whether to borrow against your home equity depends on your financial goals and how you plan to use the funds. It’s a powerful tool for homeowners who need access to cash for major expenses, but it’s important to consider the risks. Borrowing against your home means putting your property on the line, so only take out a loan if you’re confident you can repay it.

Some questions to ask before borrowing against equity might include:

• Do I need a lump sum or smaller, intermittent amounts?
• Can I afford the loan payments throughout the term?
• Am I confident that my job or income will remain stable?
• Are there other lending options I should consider?
• How soon do I need the funds?
• Is this the best use of my equity?

Before moving forward, review your financial situation, explore all your options, and consult with a lender or financial advisor. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make the best decision for your needs.

If you are looking to buy or sell in the future, HomeLight partners with top-rated real estate agents across the country. We analyze over 27 million transactions and thousands of reviews to determine which agent is best for you based on your needs.

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