Evaluating Cash-Out Refinance vs. Second Mortgages vs. Equity Sharing Agreements

3 Ways to Use Your Home Equity Without Selling Your Home

If you’re a homeowner, you have the option to use your home equity to improve your life in a number of ways. You can get a cash-out refinance, take out a second mortgage, or enter into an equity sharing agreement.

Each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh your options before making a decision. Here are some things to consider if you’re trying to decide how to use your home equity.

Cash-Out Refinance

A cash-out refinance is when you take out a new loan to replace your existing mortgage. The new loan will be for a larger amount than your current mortgage, and you’ll receive the difference in cash.

This cash can be used for anything you want, such as home improvements, debt consolidation, or investing. A cash-out refinance can be a good option if you have good credit and you’re able to get a lower interest rate on the new loan than you’re currently paying.

Second Mortgage

A second mortgage is a loan that’s secured by your home equity. This means that if you default on the loan, your home could be foreclosed on.

A second mortgage can be a good option if you need a large amount of money and you don’t want to put your home at risk. However, you’ll need to be sure that you can make the monthly payments on the loan.

Equity Sharing Agreement

An equity sharing agreement is when you sell a portion of your home’s equity to an investor in exchange for cash. The investor then becomes a partial owner of your home.

If you sell your home, the investor will receive a portion of the proceeds. Equity sharing can be a good option if you need cash but you don’t want to take out a loan or sell your home.

No matter which option you choose, be sure to consult with a financial advisor to ensure that it’s the right decision for you.

Get Started