HELOC Calculator (Estimate)
Estimate Only - Do Not Use for Driving Decisions!
Estimated Results
Maximum Available HELOC Amount: $0.00
Est. Interest-Only Payment (Draw Period): $0.00 / month
Est. Principal + Interest Payment (Repayment Period): $0.00 / month
What is a HELOC Calculator?
A HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) Calculator is a financial tool designed to estimate how much you might be able to borrow against the equity in your home and what your potential monthly payments could look like. A HELOC works like a revolving credit line secured by your property, allowing you to draw funds as needed up to a certain limit during a "draw period."
How Does This Calculator Work?
This calculator estimates your potential HELOC based on several key factors:
- Maximum Borrowable Amount Calculation: Uses your Home Value, Max LTV, and Mortgage Balance to estimate the total credit line available.
- Payment Estimations: Calculates the estimated Interest-Only monthly payment (typical during the draw period) and the estimated fully amortized Principal + Interest monthly payment (typical during the repayment period), based on the amount you plan to draw and the interest rate.
- Visualization: Displays bar charts comparing the payment types and showing the breakdown of your home value relative to your mortgage and potential HELOC.
Important: The interest rate input is a single estimate. Real HELOC rates are often variable, meaning payments can change. This calculator does not model variable rates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Loan-to-Value (LTV)?
LTV compares loan amounts to property value. Combined LTV (CLTV) includes your mortgage plus the HELOC. Lenders use a max CLTV (e.g., 80%) to limit borrowing against equity. - Is the interest rate fixed or variable?
Most HELOCs have variable rates tied to an index like the Prime Rate. Your rate and payments can change. This tool uses a fixed rate for estimation only. - What are the Draw Period and Repayment Period?
HELOCs usually have a Draw Period (e.g., 10 years) where you borrow funds (often paying interest-only) followed by a Repayment Period (e.g., 20 years) where you repay principal and interest. - Are there fees?
Yes, HELOCs can have application, appraisal, title, annual, or closing fees, which are **not** included here. Ask lenders about all costs. - HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan?
HELOC = variable rate credit line. Home Equity Loan = fixed-rate lump sum loan. - Is HELOC interest tax-deductible?
Maybe. Generally only if used to "buy, build, or substantially improve" the home securing the loan, subject to limits. Consult a tax advisor. - Is this calculator free?
Yes, this tool is free for estimations.