| Frequently
Asked Questions > Home Equity Loans
What can I use my home's equity for?
You can use your home's equity to make home improvements,
pay for college, consolidate debt, or even go on vacation.
What is the difference
between a Home Equity Loan and a Home Equity Line of
Credit?
There are three main differences between home equity
loans and home equity lines of credit. The first difference is
pricing: a line of credit typically has a variable interest rate
while a loan might have a fixed or variable interest rate.
The
second difference is access to funds: a line
of credit allows ongoing access by over the counter withdrawal
during a period
of time.
As you repay those funds they become available again for future
use. With a loan, you get the money up front and have to
pay it back over a specified period of time; you cannot access
those
funds again.
The third difference is payment terms: a line of credit
has a variable payment that can be as low as interest-only
during the draw period, and can include monthly principal and
interest during the repayment period. A loan has fixed monthly
payments, which can make budgeting easier.
What happens at the end of the draw period?
Any outstanding balance at the end of your draw
period (including unpaid fees and interest) will be amortized
into equal montly payments. You will not be able to access the
line after the draw period has expired unless you reapply for
a new home equity line of credit.
How much can I borrow
against my home's value?
For qualifying customers, home equity lines of credit
are available for up to 90% of your home's value. Pricing guidelines
may vary based on loan-to-value (LTV) ratios, line amount and credit
history.
Can I get a home equity loan or line
of credit on a rental
property?
No. Mayflower Bank does not extend home equity financing
to investment property. Contact one of our commercial loan
officers for information on how to obtain a line of credit on a rental property.
Do I need to get an appraisal of my home?
Yes. In most circumstances all that is necessary is
a drive-by appraisal.
How long does the process
take to obtain a home equity loan or line of credit?
The average time to obtain a home equity loan or line
of credit is two weeks, but this timeframe can vary depending on
how long it takes to receive all of the required paperwork. Funds
are normally available to your account on the fourth business day after the
date you sign your loan documents, due to a mandatory three-day
recision period, when you have the right to cancel the transaction
entirely.
Where will
the closing be held?
We will close your loan at the Mayflower Bank office
of your choice. Click here for a list of branches.
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