Tap into your home’s equity for major expenses or opportunities without affecting your first mortgage.
Enjoy stability with a fixed rate and set monthly payments—unlike HELOCs with variable rates.
Receive funds as a one-time lump sum—great for renovations, debt consolidation, tuition, or large purchases.
Secured by your home, second mortgages often have much lower rates than credit cards or unsecured loans.
Pick a repayment term—5, 10, 15, or 30 years—to match your goals and cash flow.
Interest may be tax-deductible if used for home improvements (consult your tax advisor).
Must have at least 15–20% equity after the new loan. Combined LTV typically capped at 80–85%.
Minimum 660–680 for most lenders. Higher scores get better rates and easier approval.
Combined monthly debts (including both mortgages) must usually stay below 43–50% of your gross income.
Stable, documentable income—most lenders want 2 years of steady employment or self-employment.
Your first mortgage must be current—no recent late payments or delinquencies.
Property must meet lender requirements and pass an appraisal to verify value.
Quickly review your options and eligibility with a loan specialist.
Complete a full loan application and gather required financial documentation.
A professional appraisal determines your home's value and available equity.
Your loan is reviewed for final approval based on all criteria.
Sign documents and receive your funds as a lump sum.
Feature | Second Mortgage | HELOC |
---|---|---|
Fund Distribution | One-time lump sum | Draw as needed |
Interest Rate | Fixed | Variable (often) |
Monthly Payment | Fixed | Varies |
Term Length | 5–30 years | 10–30 years (draw + repay) |
Best For | Large planned expenses | Flexible/ongoing needs |
Interest Accrued | On full amount | Only on used portion |
Closing Costs | Generally higher | Often lower |
Denver, Colorado
Austin, Texas
Seattle, Washington
A loan secured by your home in addition to your first mortgage, letting you access home equity as a lump sum without refinancing your main loan.
Second mortgages are fixed-rate, fixed-term loans paid as a lump sum. HELOCs are flexible lines of credit with variable rates and draw periods.
Typically up to 80–85% of your home’s value minus what’s owed on your first mortgage.
Usually 5–30 years with a fixed rate and payment.
Usually 2–5% of the loan amount (may be built into the loan or covered by a higher rate).
It’s possible, but most lenders want a minimum 660–680 score. Subprime lenders may charge more for lower credit.
Only if used for home improvements (consult a tax professional for your specific situation).
Your home is collateral for both loans—missed payments could mean foreclosure. Only borrow what you can repay.
Our mortgage specialists are here to guide you and find the right solution for your needs.
Get Started TodayA toll-free consumer hotline is available at 1-877-276-5550. The department maintains a recovery fund to make payments of certain actual out of pocket damages sustained by borrowers caused by acts of licensed mortgage banker residential mortgage loan originators. A written application for reimbursement from the recovery fund must be filed with and investigated by the department prior to the payment of a claim. For more information about the recovery fund, please consult the department’s website at