A home equity loan allows you to tap into your property's value to pay off short-term debt, remodel, or pay for college. There are several options for drawing on your equity, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. No matter which option you choose, interest is still tax deductible.

Refinancing Your Mortgage

By refinancing your mortgage, you can withdraw all or part of your equity. With this type of loan, you have one monthly payment with a low interest rate. If your mortgage originated when interest rates were high, you may find savings by refinancing now.

However, refinancing is costly with loan origination fees. You will have to go through the whole loan process again. You may also find that you may not find a better interest rate.

Opening A Home Equity Loan

A home equity loan allows you to take out a second loan based on your home's equity. With this type of financing you have lower loan costs and can usually choose shorter loan terms.

With a home equity loan, you find interest rates slightly higher than mortgages. Monthly payments are typically larger than with a refinanced mortgage. But in the long term, you will probably pay less in interest charges.

Creating A Line Of Credit

A line of credit based on you home equity provides the greatest amount of flexibility. You can choose to withdraw all or part of the available cash as you need it. You payments are much like a credit card payment. You can pay off a portion, then use that credit later on.

Lines of credit have low to no fees, but interest rates are higher than any other type home equity loan.

Picking The Best Option

When you pick a home equity loan, you need to take a look at your budget first. Decide how much you can afford monthly to pay. Also, look at how much you can save with each financing option. For example, if you home loan has a high rate, refinancing may save you money even with loan fees.

No matter which finance option you choose, research rates from various lenders. Even a difference as small as 1/8% can save you hundreds. Don't be afraid of asking for quotes. This way you can get information on rates without getting hit on your credit report.

About the author:

See my recommended Home Equity Loan Lenders online. Carrie Reeder is the owner of ABC Loan Guide, which offers help with loans for people with low credit scores.