Understanding What Is A Hard Money Second: Why It Is Right For You
A hard money second is one you take out against the equity in your home. Your existing mortgage stays in place and doesn’t change. You can use a second mortgage to pay for major expenses like debt repayment, renovations on your home, or putting away money towards your child’s future college costs. Let’s find out what hard money is in seconds and why this option is right for you.
What is a second mortgage?
A second mortgage is a loan you take out in addition to your first mortgage. You use the equity in your home as collateral to get the second mortgage. The equity is the current market value of your home minus the balance on your existing mortgage.
When you take out a second mortgage, you now have two home mortgages and two mortgage payments. Both might be with the same lender or with different lenders. You are responsible for making both mortgage payments each month according to the terms of each separate loan. If you default on either mortgage, the default lender may foreclose or take other measures to satisfy the loan.
How does a second mortgage work?
A second mortgage works similar to a first mortgage. You have to complete an application and submit documentation to the lender about your finances and debts. The lender may require you to get an appraisal on your home that proves the value.
Borrowing requirements vary by lender. Most lenders want the home to have at least 15%-20% equity available. You can usually borrow up to 85% of the home’s current value, minus your first mortgage balance. Keep in mind, that the better your credit score, the better the interest rate and repayment terms. Most lenders also want to see a debt-to-income ratio of 50% or less.
For example, if your land or home is worth $500,000 and you still owe $250,000. You could potentially borrow up to $175,000 for a second mortgage ($500,000 x 0.85 – $250,000).
When should you take out a second mortgage?
A second mortgage is a great solution for repaying high-interest debt. You use it to pay back the consolidating multiple debts into one manageable payment. You spend it to access the equity in your home.
All California Lending offers variable interest rates, which is usually best when interest rates are low. But with interest rates rising, a hard money second in California may be a more affordable solution. It provides a fixed interest rate and predictable payments.
If you sell your home before you pay off your second mortgage, the loan balance comes due immediately. Any outstanding balance will lower what you take home from the sale, even if the renovations don’t increase the value of your home.
Advantage of hard money seconds
If you’re considering taking out a hard money second on your home, consider the pros first.
- A hard money second provides a way to access the equity in your home.
- Interest rates are lower than credit cards and personal loans.
- You can use the funds for any reason, whether improving your home, taking a vacation, or paying for a wedding.
- You can use any lender, even if it’s not the same as your primary mortgage.
If you need to access equity in your property, but are unable to arrange finance to refinance your existing loan, then contact All California Lending today at 877 462 3422. They are happy to discuss your situation and recommend the best hard money seconds option for you.
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