The main difference between HELOCs and equity loans is that the borrower does not receive the whole amount up front. The sum of money that can be used with a line of credit cannot exceed the credit limit, and this works much like a standard credit card. You can withdraw money from the line of credit until the draw period ends, which is from 5 to 25 years. You should pay back the money, plus interest. The full principal amount is repaid when the draw period ends, either according to an amortization schedule or in a lump sum.
HELOCs have some definite advantages over equity loans and other financial products. One is that borrowers can pay off a line of credit whenever they like. If you are paying off a mortgage loan, and the mortgage is not of the open mortgage variety, you will face penalty fees for prepaying it early. Second, lines of credit are offered with a variable interest rate which is lower than the rate on other products. This means that borrowers are given access to inexpensive money.
Similar to home equity loans, you can use the amount borrowed for anything you see fit. However, home equity lines have an added advantage because on paying down the limit, you can access more funds.
At the same time, home equity loans are flexible and desirable lump sum loans for some, featured with low interest rates. They are also beneficial for persons who need considerable amounts of money for medical bills, large-scale projects, and short-term ones.
Then, HELOCs are beneficial for persons who need a considerable sum of money over a certain period of time, for example, for a home remodeling project or college education which require long-term payment plans. Low interest rates are the main advantage home equity lines have over credit cards. The interest rate on home equity lines of credit is lower than the prime rate. In contrast, the interest rate on credit cards is about 18 percent or higher.
As an added benefit, interest applies only to the amount drawn. Thus, no interest rate applies to money, which is sitting idle, unlike other loan types. With such loans, borrowers pay interest on the full amount borrowed, regardless of whether they use the money. Finally, HELOCs are offered with no closing costs in most cases. This obviously makes them a good option as it saves a lot of money.
It should be noted that some HELOCs charge an annual or monthly fee, or both. Then, there is one major downside to both home equity loans and HELOCs, and it is that your home serves as collateral. You can lose your home in case of default. Making timely payments is important, regardless of the terms and conditions you have been offered.