Frequently Asked Questions

• What can home equity loans be used for?

  Home equity loans provide you with the opportunity to chase dreams to the fullest. Enjoy a vacation with the whole family, invest in a household remodeling project, or even finance an upcoming vehicle purchase with only a few clicks.  If you can dream it, you can achieve it!

• What type of requirements exist for home equity loans?

  Home equity loans rely on a loan to value ratio (LTV) to disburse funds, meaning that your credit score and home equity value should be fairly substantial to take advantage of all possible benefits. For assistance in the home equity loan pre-approval process, please speak with your local Listerhill Credit Union branch.

• How do home equity loans work?

  Also known as a second mortgage, home equity loans work by borrowing against the value of your home’s current equity. You may calculate this yourself by subtracting the amount you owe on your mortgage from the value of your home. Home equity loans provide lump-sum funds at fixed rates, creating affordable monthly payments that are consistent and affordable.

• What information should I know before securing a land loan?

  When you purchase land, you want to ensure that it can be used for the desired purpose. That involves having certain information about the land in advance, such as the items listed below:

  • Land survey to know the boundaries of the property
  • Property easements so you know who has permission to enter or use your land for sewer pipes or cable wires
  • Title search to see what easements are on your land
  • Zoning laws to determine whether the land is zoned for residential use, commercial use, or another option
  • Flood hazard risk, so you’re aware of any extreme weather risks
  • Appraisal so you know the value of the land compared to similar options 
• When does it make sense to refinance a mortgage?

  Refinancing your home loan can be a great option to secure a better loan for your current circumstances and future goals. It makes sense to refinance your mortgage if one of the benefits will be helpful for you:

  • Secure a lower interest rate
  • Reduce your mortgage term
  • Switch from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate mortgage or vice versa
  • Borrow against the equity in your home

  
  

  If doing any of the above would benefit you, refinancing might be the next best move.