When a person considers taking on a home equity loan, he has two options. The first is the traditional home equity loan, and the second is a line of credit.

Home equity loans offer several advantages that these are often availed of by many homeowners. First, a home equity loan can be larger than other types of loans. A home equity loan can be long term and the payback period can be as long as 25 years. And the home equity loan can consolidate all other debts.

When a person intends to apply for a home equity loan, he must be aware that there are two major types of home equity loans. These two major types have differences and similarities. Their very unique features will determine which will best meet the needs of the potential borrower.

The Traditional Home Equity Loan

The first major type of home equity loan is the traditional home equity financing. This is more commonly known as the second mortgage. This type of home equity loan involves a fixed amount of money which is immediately presented to people who have just purchased a new home. This type of home equity loan has a fixed payback period.

The Home Equity Line of Credit

The second major type of home equity loan involves a line of credit. The homeowner is entitled to a fixed maximum credit limit. This revolving credit limit can be utilized partially or in full by the homeowner and, it also allows the homeowner, to have multiple purposes for this type of home equity loan.

Similarities of the Two Types of Home Equity Loans

Despite the differences cited above, the two types of home equity loans share many similarities. The foremost similarity is that both major types are secured loans and secured to the house or property. With such valuable collateral, the borrower may obtain a large amount of money. But this also means that if the borrower will not be able to pay the loaned amount, he will foreclose the home mortgage and he will lose his home. Thus, the homeowner is advised to take a home equity loan only when he needed money during emergencies or during urgent financial problems.

Another major similarity of the two major types of equity loans is the tax deductibility of the interest of the loans. Obtaining such tax savings can be done in many ways. One is to consolidate the credit card debt. The interest in a credit card debt is not deductible but when it is transferred into a home equity loan, the interest paid will be tax deductible. To know more ways of obtaining tax savings, the homeowner must consult with a financial advisor.

Whichever type of home equity loan is used by the owner, he must make sure that he has chosen a lender that will give him the best loan terms.

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About The Author

John Mussi is the founder of Direct Online Loans who help homeowners find the best available loans via the http://www.directonlineloans.co.uk website.