The Difference between an Equity Line and a Loan - January 27, 2008
Many borrowers are confused about the distinction between a home equity loan and other common types of loans. A better understanding of equity loans will clear any doubts.
One major difference is that home equity loans are offered against the mortgage of your home. It comes in various options, including credit lines. A borrower can take out large sums for any purposes that suit him. He can use it to pay off debts, restructuring credit card interest rates, home improvement, and also for such mundane matters as paying of tuitions fees or buying a car.
A number of borrowers take re-mortgage equity loan to pay off the first mortgage and use the balance amount to remodel the home for better equity. In other cases, the borrower can take a line of credit for ten or 15 years and use the money at his convenience. The terms for repayment of the line of credit are dissimilar to other mortgage loans.
The credit lines offer different options to the borrower. Depending on an understanding with the lender, a borrower can either take out the full amount at one go or in installments. Once the first installment of loan is repaid in full, the borrower can avail of the next installment. Some lenders would want to know for what purpose you need the loan, and they might insist that you use the loan for the purpose for which it is intended, even if you have to repay the loan.
Home equity loans are often accompanied by fixed rate interest with tax reduction facility, which most borrowers find comfortable. On the contrary, credit lines has flexible prime rate interest. It is up to the borrower to study the details of each loan and select an option most suitable to him.
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