Homeowners can leverage the equity built in their home without selling the property. Those with immediate cash needs can take out a home loan to help pay for medical bills, renovations, or other expenses that require immediate funds.

How Home Equity Loans Work

An equity loan differs from the closely related home equity line of credit. A house loan is for a set amount of money, with a repayment schedule and a fixed interest rate. A home equity line of credit is a revolving account with a borrowing limit, and a monthly repayment depending on the amount of credit issued at the time.

A home loan can be a smart choice when a large sum of money is needed for a one-time payment, while a line of credit is more appropriate for ongoing cash needs. For more information on negotiating interest rates, see Mortgage Refinancing Tips.