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    1. Loans
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    3. HELOC
    Refinance

    HELOC

    "A credit line backed by your home."

    Draw funds as you need them, pay interest only on what you use. A reusable credit line secured by your home equity.

    Home equity required

    Min Down

    680+

    Min Credit

    Up to 85% CLTV

    Max Loan

    Check My EligibilityTalk to a Specialist
    Last reviewed: January 2026 · CMS Mortgage Editorial Team

    HELOC Benefits

    Everything you need to know about your benefits

    Flexible Access

    Draw funds whenever you need them during the draw period

    Pay Only What You Use

    Interest-only payments on the amount actually drawn

    Reusable Credit

    Repay and redraw funds during the draw period

    Lower Initial Costs

    Often lower closing costs than a full refinance

    Keep Your First Mortgage

    HELOC is a second lien, your first mortgage stays intact

    Quick Access

    Once approved, access funds immediately when needed

    How It Works

    Your path to homeownership in just a few simple steps

    1

    Get Approved

    Apply for a credit line up to 85% CLTV based on your equity

    Receive Your Line

    Your credit line is established (e.g., $100,000 available)

    Draw As Needed

    Access funds via checks, debit card, or online transfer

    Pay Interest Only

    Make interest-only payments on the amount you use

    1

    Get Approved

    Apply for a credit line up to 85% CLTV based on your equity

    Receive Your Line

    Your credit line is established (e.g., $100,000 available)

    Draw As Needed

    Access funds via checks, debit card, or online transfer

    Pay Interest Only

    Make interest-only payments on the amount you use

    Repay & Redraw

    Pay down your balance and access funds again during draw period

    How Your HELOC Works Over Time

    Understanding the two phases of your HELOC helps you plan your finances

    Draw Period

    Years 1-10

    Access funds as needed, make interest-only payments

    • Draw funds anytime
    • Interest-only payments
    • Reuse as you repay
    • Variable rate

    Repayment Period

    Years 11-30

    No new draws, pay down principal + interest

    • No new withdrawals
    • Principal + Interest payments
    • Fixed remaining term
    • Balance decreases

    Example: Interest-Only Payment

    Credit Limit

    $100,000

    Amount Drawn

    $50,000

    Monthly Payment

    $375

    At 7.5% APR, $50,000 drawn = ~$375/month interest-only

    0

    HELOC vs Cash-Out: Which Is Right for You?

    FeatureHELOC(This loan)Cash-Out Refi
    How You AccessOngoing credit lineOne-time lump sum
    Interest RateVariable (Prime + margin)Fixed rate
    Loan PositionSecond lienReplaces first mortgage
    Payment TypeInterest on balance drawnPrincipal & Interest
    Best ForFlexible/ongoing needsLarge one-time expense

    * Rates and terms subject to change. Contact us for current offers.

    FAQ

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about HELOC

    Last updated: May 12, 2026

    How is a HELOC different from a cash-out refinance?

    A HELOC is a second mortgage that gives you a revolving credit line—you draw funds as needed and only pay interest on what you use. A cash-out refinance replaces your entire first mortgage with a new, larger loan and gives you a lump sum at closing. HELOCs have variable rates while cash-out refis typically have fixed rates.

    What is the draw period and repayment period?

    The draw period (typically 10 years) is when you can access funds from your credit line and make interest-only payments. After the draw period ends, you enter the repayment period (10-20 years) where you can no longer draw funds and must pay down the principal plus interest.

    Are HELOC interest rates variable?

    Yes, most HELOCs have variable interest rates tied to the Prime rate plus a margin. This means your rate and payment can change over time. Some lenders offer rate locks or fixed-rate conversion options for a portion of your balance.

    You can draw up to your full credit limit during the draw period. Most lenders allow combined loan-to-value (CLTV) up to 85%, meaning your first mortgage plus HELOC cannot exceed 85% of your home value.
    Yes, you can pay off your HELOC at any time without prepayment penalties in most cases. During the draw period, paying down your balance frees up that credit to use again if needed.
    HELOC interest may be tax-deductible if the funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve your home. Interest on funds used for other purposes (like debt consolidation or education) is generally not deductible. Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.
    Compare all loan types — Read our comprehensive mortgage guide
    Read the Compare GuideSee how HELOC stacks up against other mortgage options
    Compare All Programs Side-by-SideDrop HELOC next to up to 2 others and compare requirements line by line

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    We'll notify you instantly when rates drop to your target.

    Get Started with HELOC See Today's Rates
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    Unlock Flexible Access to Your Equity

    See how much credit you could access with a HELOC.

    Check My EligibilityTalk to a Specialist

    Or call us directly: (757) 558-2603

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