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Home Equity, Mortgages, Real Estate Top Stories
Why lenders won’t let you access all your home equity
With rising home prices, many homeowners have left a record amount of capital. But just because your home stock could be hundreds of thousands of dollars doesn’t mean that lenders have access to you all. There are several reasons to limit the amount of fairness you can tap (believe it or not, it’s your protection and theirs). Dive into all the details.
The Fed is putting fees: What does that mean for borrowers?
When the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates last year, housing stocks also fell. However, the Fed has not changed interest rates at its two meetings this year, indicating that inflation and uncertainty around tariffs and employment remains a concern. What does the Fed move mean for homeowners who have HELOCS or are considering getting a new home equity loan?
I’m still looking for home prices
The latest read from S&P CoreLogic’s Case Syrah Index shows that annual home-based prices have increased by 4.1% in January, marking its 20th high. Home affordability continues to be a challenge for first-time home buyers as they juggle high home prices as mortgage rates rise. Is there a light at the end of the homeowner’s tunnel?
Home Equity Loan vs Home Renovation Loan – Which nails it?
If you’re focusing on renovations to spruce your home, you might have a discussion between home equity loans and home renovation loans. Funding options may sound the same, but the loans can’t be any more different. We have compiled a handy guide on how to choose between the two, from the size of your loan and interest rates to approval times and repayment terms.
Why you might need your home equity later
The cost of aging comes with a hefty price tag that is rising for long-term care at $100,000 a year. This is where home equity can be a valuable tool. Elderly people sitting in a huge amount of home equity can use their housing wealth to pay for their healthcare and medical expenses in later years. Find out how you can weigh some of the potential options and how you can compare the pros and cons.
Don’t be prey to the looters
There are still uncruel and careful lenders who have not been as rampant as they once were, but are trying to seduce less despicable borrowers. Inflated interest rates, advance penalties, hidden fees: these are some of their tricks. Here are some of the warning signs and ways to protect yourself from becoming a victim.
Rate Summary
Another week, another Heloc Low…
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) rates continue to fall, currently close to 8% – at a level not seen since 2023. Meanwhile, home equity loans averaged $30,000 at 8.37%, reaching their lowest level in 2025.
…While mortgage fees are rising
The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage currently averages 6.78%, but it’s far below the 7% mark a year ago.
Just in case you missed it
Technically, these stories have been released in the past few weeks, but they are still worth highlighting.
Lower Heloc Offer Low Down
They are called the teaser fee for reasons. Lenders are trying to lure you in with a limited time introductory offer. At face value, they seem quite a bit, but it’s important to read all terms and conditions carefully. It’s about making sure you understand what will happen after the honeymoon period ends.
Credit Unions flip new leaves over
Eighty-three years after being the Bethpage Federal Credit Union, the venerable financial institution has officially reformed its FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. The name change comes as Northeast providers of HELOCs, mortgages and other financial products are expanding their presence in the New York area. Would you prove you’re lucky for the borrower? See how to rate 4 Leaf.
