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HELOCs and Second Mortgages:
Which One Should I
Choose?
by: Mark Lambie

Whether
you need some extra cash to pay off some credit card debts, or to make
some home improvements, home equity lines of credit or second mortgages
can be great ways to get started.
Many people looking to borrow money often opt for home equity line of
credit, or HELOCs, for short. They are a tempting first choice, because
they can often give you the much needed cash at a low interest rate.
Another advantage to taking out an HELOC, or a home equity line of
credit, is that they may provide the borrower with a certain tax break,
but you would need to verify this with your lender or accountant.
One drawback to HELOCs, however, is the fact that borrowers are
expected to put their homes up as collateral. So, it is important that
you think this decision through, before finalizing the loan, because you
may be at risk of losing your home- and its equity- if you are late or
cannot make your monthly payments. Finally, if you decide to sell your
home, must HELOCs will require that you pay off the balance, before
completing the sale.
You can also take out a second mortgage, if you need some cash. Like
the HELOC, second mortgages usually pay out the loan in one sum, which
makes it a convenient option. Second mortgages also have the added
advantage of having set payments, at a fixed interest rate. Many
companies will charge a lending fee, which will vary from company to
company. These fees are usually based upon a percentage of the loan and
are frequently referred to as 'points.' If one fee seems too high, don't
be afraid to shop around to find one which is better suited to your
budget.
Remember, however, that adding a second mortgage to your home carries
with it certain risks. Like with home equity lines of credit, you could
lose your home, if you fall behind in the payments.
About The Author
Mark Lambie is the founder of
http://www.the-loan-house.com a website that allows consumers to
quickly and easily get mortgage information.
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