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If you're a real estate investor or landlord, you know that tapping into the equity of your rental property can be a great way to access cash for renovations, pay off debt, or even fund a new investment.
Bank of America offers home equity loans on rental property, with loan amounts ranging from $25,000 to $1 million.
Some banks require a minimum credit score of 620, while others may have more stringent requirements.
Wells Fargo, for example, requires a minimum credit score of 700 for a home equity loan on rental property.
Banks That Offer Home Equity Loans
If you're shopping around for a home equity loan on a rental property, consider some of the banks that offer this type of loan.
Banks that offer home equity loans on rental property include those with established relationships with you, such as your regular mortgage lender, business bank, or credit union.
Some financial institutions known to be willing to work with real estate investors include major banks and local credit unions.
Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and US Bank are among the major banks that offer home equity loans on investment property.
You should also include your regular mortgage lender in the conversation, as they may be more willing to be flexible or offer preferable rates.
Flagstar, PenFed Credit Union, and Alliant Credit Union are also known to be HELOC on investment property lenders.
Fifth Third Bank and TD Bank are additional banks that may be willing to offer home equity loans on rental property.
Here are some specific banks that offer home equity loans on rental property:
- Wells Fargo
- Bank of America
- US Bank
- Flagstar
- PenFed Credit Union
- Alliant Credit Union
- Fifth Third Bank
- TD Bank
Pros and Cons
Getting a home equity loan on a rental property can be a smart financial move, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
A HELOC on an investment property has no risk to your primary home, allowing you to separate your personal and investment finances.
HELOCs can provide a hedge against unexpected costs of managing your investment, giving you peace of mind and financial stability.
During the draw period, you can enjoy interest-only payments, which can help reduce your monthly expenses and free up more cash for other investments.
Flexible funding amounts are another advantage of HELOCs on investment properties, allowing you to borrow only what you need.
Some investors may be deterred by the higher interest rates than HELOCs on an owner-occupied property, but it's essential to consider the benefits.
More stringent credit requirements may also be a drawback, but many investors find that the benefits outweigh the costs.
If you default on a HELOC on a rental property, you risk losing the property, which can be a significant financial loss.
Here are the key pros and cons of getting a HELOC on a rental property:
- No risk to your primary home
- Hedge against unexpected costs of managing your investment
- Interest-only payments during the draw period
- Flexible funding amounts
- Higher interest rates than HELOCs on an owner-occupied property
- More stringent credit requirements
- Risk to your property if you default
Eligibility and Qualifying
To qualify for a home equity loan on your rental property, you'll need to meet some strict requirements. You'll typically need an excellent credit score of 720 or higher.
Lenders will also want to see that you have a maximum 80% loan-to-value (LTV) ratio and healthy cash reserves to cover at least 6 months of payments. Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) should be 40% to 50% or less.
Here are some key eligibility criteria to keep in mind:
Eligibility Criteria
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To qualify for a home equity loan on a rental property, you'll typically need to have at least 15% to 20% equity in the home. This is a common requirement among lenders.
A good credit score is also crucial, with most lenders looking for a minimum of 700. This is significantly higher than the credit score required for a primary residence.
Your debt-to-income ratio should be 43% or less, although some lenders may be able to work with up to 50%. It's essential to keep your debt in check to increase your chances of approval.
Lenders will also want to see a solid income-generating record for the property, including a history of steady, positive cash flow and high occupancy.
Here's a summary of the key eligibility criteria:
Keep in mind that these requirements can vary depending on the lender, so it's essential to shop around and find a lender that meets your specific needs.
Terms and Conditions
When considering a home equity loan for a rental property, it's essential to understand the terms and conditions.
Investment property home equity loans typically come with fixed rates, which can provide stability and predictability for your loan payments.
You may be able to find a loan with a term length of 5 to 30 years, giving you flexibility in choosing a repayment period that suits your needs.
However, be aware that some home equity loans for rental properties may come with higher interest rates compared to those for primary residences.
A no pre-payment penalty loan can be a great option, allowing you to pay off the loan early without incurring additional fees.
Keep in mind that the specifics of your loan will depend on your individual circumstances and the lender you choose to work with.
Alternatives and Considerations
Alternatives to home equity loans on rental properties are definitely worth considering. A cash-out refinance allows you to refinance your rental property at a higher loan amount and receive the difference in cash.
If you're not eligible for a cash-out refinance, you can also consider a HELOC on your primary residence, which is often easier to qualify for and comes with a slightly lower interest rate. This can be a good option if you meet the requirements.
You can also look into a home equity loan, which can provide a lump-sum payment you can use to fund repairs or make an emergency payment. This can be a solid alternative to a HELOC, especially if you have enough equity in your rental property.
Before committing to a home equity loan on your rental property, make sure you understand the individual factors and implications that go into borrowing. Consider the following alternatives:
- Cash-out refinance: Refinance your rental property at a higher loan amount and receive the difference in cash.
- HELOC on your primary residence: Easier to qualify for and usually comes with a slightly lower interest rate.
- Home equity loan: Receive a lump-sum payment for repairs or emergency payments.
- Unsecured personal loan: Receive a one-time lump sum, but you'll have to start making repayments right away.
Considerations Before Applying
Before applying for a home equity loan on your rental property, make sure you're aware of the higher costs involved. You'll likely have to pay more in fees and interest due to the increased risk lenders perceive.
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Lenders consider investment properties riskier than primary residences, which means your cash flow tied up in multiple rental properties can make you a higher risk for defaulting.
Higher interest rates are another way lenders offset the added risk. This can be a non-starter if your profit margins are slim or you're not prepared for the financial implications.
It's essential to consider these factors and implications before committing to a home equity loan on your rental property.
Alternatives
If you're unsure about a HELOC on a rental property, consider these alternatives.
A cash-out refinance allows you to refinance a rental property at a higher loan amount and receive the difference in cash. This option often comes with a lower interest rate and more freedom with your funds.
You can secure a HELOC on your primary residence if you meet the requirements, which is often easier to qualify for and comes with a slightly lower interest rate.
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A home equity loan can be a solid alternative to a HELOC for investment property owners with enough equity. You'll receive a lump-sum payment that can be used for repairs or emergency payments.
If approved for an unsecured personal loan, you'll receive a one-time lump sum with quick funding. Strong candidates may qualify for a lower interest rate, but you'll have to start making repayments right away.
Here are some options to consider:
- Cash-out refinance: Refinance a rental property at a higher loan amount and receive the difference in cash.
- HELOC on your primary residence: Qualify for a HELOC on your primary residence for easier qualification and a lower interest rate.
- Home equity loan: Receive a lump-sum payment for repairs or emergency payments.
- Unsecured personal loan: Receive a one-time lump sum with quick funding, but start making repayments right away.
Tax Implications
Tax implications can be a complex aspect of rental property investment.
The interest you pay on your rental property home equity loan may be tax deductible, which can help reduce your taxable income.
To qualify for this tax deduction, you must use the loan to improve the property.
You cannot rent out the property during that tax year, and you must designate the property as a qualified residence on your tax return.
Specific Banks and Options
Some banks offer home equity loans on rental property, and it's worth considering them when shopping around.
One such option is Mutual Security Credit Union, which offers fixed-rate investment property home equity loans. Borrowers can request up to $100,000 or a maximum of 50% LTV, whichever is lower.
TD Bank
TD Bank offers a fixed rate on home equity loans with terms available from 5 to 30 years.
If you're looking to borrow a significant amount, TD Bank requires a minimum of $10,000.
TD Bank's home equity loan terms are flexible, giving you the option to choose a term that suits your needs.
Mutual Security Credit Union
Mutual Security Credit Union offers fixed-rate investment property home equity loans with a maximum loan amount of $100,000 or 50% of the property's value, whichever is lower.
To be eligible for a loan, you'll need to become a credit union member by making a $5 deposit into a membership account.
Loans from Mutual Security Credit Union are available in 10 and 15-year terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take out a loan on a rental property?
Yes, you can take out a home equity loan on a rental property, but it may be more challenging to qualify due to stricter lender requirements. A strong financial profile and substantial assets are typically needed to secure this type of loan.
Sources
- https://point.com/blog/who-offers-heloc-on-investment-property
- https://www.bankrate.com/home-equity/home-equity-loan-investment-rental-property/
- https://www.corevestfinance.com/banks-that-do-home-equity-loans-on-rental-property/
- https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/heloc-on-investment-property
- https://money.com/what-to-know-before-getting-a-home-equity-loan-on-rental-property/
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