Refinance vs. home equity: which is right for you?

There are a number of things to think about before deciding whether to refinance or borrow against the equity in your home.

  1. Determine your primary goal: Are you looking to lower your monthly mortgage payment by securing a more favorable interest rate or get cash to finance a new project, or both? Refinancing might be the best choice if your primary goal is to lower your monthly payment or pay off your mortgage faster. If you want cash for improvements, education expenses or to purchase something you’ve been dreaming of, then consider a home equity installment loan. Another option might be a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
  2. Shop rates and compare closing costs: Home equity loan rates are typically higher than mortgage rates, but often have lower closing costs than a refinance loan.
  3. Consider how long you plan to live in your home: If you don’t plan to stay in your home for the long haul, a home equity loan may be preferable, as you may not recoup the closing costs on a refinance loan.

Other considerations

Refinancing can be a great way to get new mortgage rates and terms, as well as a one-time source of cash. If your current mortgage is satisfactory, home equity loans can be a less expensive option for consumers who need access to cash, while refinancing may be a way to lower monthly payments or save money on interest.

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Disclosures

U.S. Bank and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. Your tax and financial situation is unique. You should consult your tax and/or legal advisor for advice and information concerning your particular situation.

The Consumer Pricing Information disclosure lists fees, terms and conditions that apply to U.S. Bank personal checking and savings accounts and can be obtained by visiting a branch or calling 800-872-2657.

Home Equity Line of Credit: Repayment options may vary based on credit qualifications. Choosing an interest-only repayment may cause your monthly payment to increase, possibly substantially, once your credit line transitions into the repayment period. Interest-only repayment may be unavailable. Loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. A U.S. Bank personal checking account is required to receive the lowest rate but is not required for loan approval. Customers in certain states are eligible to receive the preferred rate without having a U.S. Bank personal checking account. Interest rate and program terms are subject to change without notice. Credit line may be reduced, or additional extensions of credit limited if certain circumstances occur.

An early closure fee of 1% of the original line amount, maximum $500, will apply if the line is paid off and closed within the first 30 months. Property insurance is required. Other restrictions may apply. Customer pays no closing costs. Initial escrow related funding costs may apply. An annual fee of up to $75 may apply after the first year and is waived or discounted with an existing U.S. Bank Platinum Checking Package or with enrollment in our Smart Rewards Program. Annual fees are assessed based on the tier in our Smart Rewards Program on your HELOC anniversary date. Please refer to your Smart Rewards terms and conditions for more information on tier assignment.

Home Equity Loan: As of March 15, 2024, the fixed Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 7.65% is available for 10-year second position home equity installment loans $50,000 to $99,999 with loan-to-value (LTV) of 60% or less. Rates may vary based on LTV, credit scores or other loan amount. In order to receive the lowest rate advertised, a set-up of automatic payments from a U.S. Bank personal checking or savings account is required but neither are required for loan approval. Clients in certain states are eligible to receive the preferred rate without having automatic payments from a U.S. Bank personal checking or savings account. Loan payment example: on a $50,000 loan for 120 months at 7.65% interest rate, monthly payments would be $597.43. Payment example does not include amounts for taxes and insurance premiums. The monthly payment obligation will be greater if taxes and insurance are included and an initial client deposit may be required if an escrow account for these items is established. Home equity loans not available for properties held in a trust in the states of Hawaii, Louisiana, New York, Oklahoma and Rhode Island. Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Property insurance is required. Other restrictions may apply.

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rate and program terms are subject to change without notice. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC.