A HELOC, which is short for Home Equity Line of Credit, is a loan that uses your home equity as collateral. When approved for a HELOC, a lender provides you with a revolving line of credit up to a certain amount of the equity in your home. Unlike a traditional mortgage, you can access these funds as needed, and you only pay interest on the amount of money you borrow. HELOCs have variable interest rates, meaning they can change over time, so the monthly payment can fluctuate.
HELOCs can be useful for homeowners who need to access cash for unexpected expenses, home renovations, or other financial needs. They offer flexibility and can be a good way to borrow money without having to take out a new mortgage. However, it’s important to remember that HELOCs are secured loans, meaning your home is at risk if you can’t repay the debt. Additionally, variable interest rates can lead to higher monthly payments in the future.