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If you’re looking for a tool you can use to borrow money when you need it, you may be wondering which is the better choice: a personal line of credit or a home equity line of credit (HELOC).

In this guide we’ll compare these two types of credit lines — both of which function similarly to a credit card but typically have a lower interest rate and a higher credit limit. We’ll also cover some of the pros and cons of using a personal line of credit vs. a HELOC.

What Is a Personal Line of Credit?

A personal line of credit, sometimes shortened to PLOC, is a revolving credit account that allows you to borrow money as you need it, up to a preset limit.

Instead of borrowing a lump sum and making fixed monthly payments on that amount, as you would with a traditional installment loan, a personal line of credit allows you to draw funds as needed during a predetermined draw period. You’re required to make payments based only on your outstanding balance during the draw period.

In that way, a PLOC works like a credit card. Generally, you can pay as much as you want each month toward your balance, as long as you make at least the minimum payment due. The money you repay is added back to your credit limit, so it’s available for you to use again.

You can use a personal line of credit for just about anything you like as long you stay within your limit, which could range from $1,000 to $100,000, and possibly more.

A PLOC is usually unsecured debt, which means you don’t have to use collateral to qualify. The lender will base decisions about the amount you can borrow and the interest rate you’ll pay on your personal creditworthiness.

Can a Personal Line of Credit Be Used to Buy a House?

If you could qualify for a high enough credit limit — or if the property you want to buy is being sold at an extremely low price — you might be able to purchase a house with a personal line of credit. But it may not be the best tool available.

A traditional mortgage — there are different types of mortgage loans — secured by the home that’s being purchased may have lower overall costs than a personal line of credit.

A variable rate, which is typical of personal lines of credit, might not be the best option for a large purchase that could take a long time to pay off. Your payments could go lower, but they also could go higher. If interest rates increase, your loan could become unaffordable.

If you use all or most of your PLOC to make a major purchase like a home, it could have a negative impact on your credit score and future borrowing ability. The amount of revolving credit you’re using vs. how much you have available — your credit utilization ratio — is an important factor that affects your credit score. Lenders typically prefer this number to be less than 30%.

💡 Recommended: Personal Loan vs Personal Line of Credit

What Is a HELOC?

A HELOC is a revolving line of credit that is secured by the borrower’s home. It, too, usually has a variable interest rate.

Lenders typically will allow you to use a HELOC to borrow a large percentage of your home’s current value minus the amount you owe. That’s your home equity.

A lender also may review your credit score, credit history, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio (monthly debts / gross monthly income = DTI) when determining your borrowing limit and interest rate.

💡 Recommended: Learn More About How HELOCs Work

Personal Line of Credit vs HELOC Compared

If you’re comparing a personal line of credit with a HELOC, you’ll find many similarities. But there are important differences to keep in mind as well.

Similarities

Here are some ways in which a personal line of credit and a HELOC are alike:

•   Both are revolving credit accounts. Money can be borrowed, repaid, and borrowed again, up to the credit limit.

•   Both have a draw period and a repayment period. The draw period is typically 10 years, with monthly minimum payments required. The repayment period may be up to 20 years after the draw period ends.

•   Access to funds is convenient. Withdrawals can be made by check or debit card, depending on how the lender sets up the loan.

•   Lenders may charge monthly fees, transaction fees, or late or prepayment fees on either. It’s important to understand potential fees before closing.

•   Both typically have variable interest rates, which can affect the overall cost of the line of credit over time. (Each occasionally comes with a fixed rate. The starting rate of a fixed-rate HELOC is usually higher. The draw period of a fixed-rate personal line of credit could be relatively short.)

•   For both, you’ll usually need at least a “good” FICO® score (670 and up on the scale from 300 to 850). Your credit score also affects the interest rate you’re offered and credit limit.

Differences

The biggest difference between a HELOC and a personal line of credit is that a HELOC is secured. That can affect the borrower in a few ways, including:

•   In exchange for the risk that HELOC borrowers take (they could lose their home if they were to default on payments), they generally qualify for lower interest rates. HELOC borrowers also may qualify for a higher credit limit.

•   With a HELOC, the lender may require a home appraisal, which might slow down the approval process and be an added expense. HELOCs also typically come with other closing costs, but some lenders will reduce or waive them if you keep the loan open for a certain period — usually three years.

•   A borrower assumes the risk of losing their home if they default on a HELOC. A personal line of credit does not come with a risk of that significance.

Personal Line of Credit vs. Home Equity Line of Credit
	Personal LOC	HELOC
Flexible borrowing and repayment	✓	✓
Convenient access to funds	✓	✓
Annual or monthly maintenance fee	Varies by lender	Varies by lender
Typicaly a Variable interest rate	✓	✓
Secured with collateral		✓
Approval based on creditworthiness	✓	✓
Favorable interest rates	✓*	✓*
*Rates for secured loans are usually lower than for unsecured loans. Rates for personal lines of credit are generally lower than credit card rates.

💡 Recommended: Credit Cards vs Personal Loans

Pros and Cons of HELOCs

A HELOC and personal line of credit share many of the same pros and cons. An advantage of borrowing with a HELOC, however, is that because it’s secured, the interest rate may be more favorable than that of a personal line of credit.

A HELOC may offer a tax benefit if you itemize and take the mortgage interest deduction. But there are potential downsides, too.

Pros and Cons of HELOCs
Pros	Cons
Flexibility in how much you can borrow and when.	Your home is at risk if you default.
Interest is charged only on the amount borrowed during the draw period	Variable interest rates can make repayment unpredictable and potentially expensive.
Generally lower interest rates than credit cards or unsecured borrowing.	Lenders may require a current home appraisal for approval.
Interest paid is tax deductible if HELOC money is spent to “buy, build, or substantially improve” the property on which the line of credit is based.	A decline in property value could affect the credit limit or result in termination of the HELOC

Pros and Cons of Personal Lines of Credit

Because you draw just the amount of money you need at any one time, a personal line of credit can be a good way to pay for home renovations, ongoing medical or dental treatments, or other expenses that might be spread out over time.

You pay interest only on the funds you’ve drawn, not the entire line of credit that’s available, which can keep monthly costs down. As you make payments, the line of credit is replenished, so you can borrow repeatedly during the draw period. And you don’t have to come up with collateral.

But there are other factors to be wary of. Here’s a summary.

Pros and Cons of Personal Lines of Credit
Pros	Cons
Flexibility in how much you borrow and when.	Variable interest rates can make repayment unpredictable and potentially expensive.
Interest charges are based only on what you’ve borrowed.	Interest rate may be higher than for a secured loan.
Interest rates are typically lower than credit cards.	Qualification can be more difficult than for secured credit.
You aren’t putting your home or another asset at risk if you default.	Convenience and minimum monthly payments could lead to overspending.

Alternatives to Lines of Credit

As you consider the pros and cons of a HELOC vs. a personal LOC, you also may wish to evaluate some alternative borrowing strategies, including:

Personal Loan

With a personal loan, a borrower receives a lump sum and makes fixed monthly payments, with interest, until the loan is repaid.

Most personal loans are unsecured, and most come with a fixed interest rate. The rate and other terms are determined by the borrower’s credit score, income, debt level, and other factors.

You’ll owe interest from day one on the full amount that you borrow. But if you’re using the loan to make a large purchase, consolidate debt, or pay off one big bill, it may make sense to borrow a specific amount and budget around the predictable monthly payments.

Personal loan rates and fees can vary significantly by lender and borrower. You can use a loan comparison site to check multiple lenders’ rates and terms, or you can go to individual websites to find a match for your goals.

Auto Loan

If you’re thinking about buying a car with a personal loan, you may want to consider an auto loan, an installment loan that’s secured by the car being purchased. Qualification may be easier than for an unsecured personal loan or personal line of credit.

Most auto loans have a fixed interest rate that’s based on the applicant’s creditworthiness, the loan amount, and the type of vehicle that’s being purchased.

Down the road, if you think you can get a better interest rate, you can look into car refinancing.

Beware no credit check loans. Car title loans have very short repayment periods and sky-high interest rates.

Mortgage

A mortgage is an installment loan that is secured by the real estate you’re purchasing or refinancing.

There are many types of mortgage loans. You’ll likely need a down payment, and borrowers typically pay closing costs of 2% to 5% of the loan amount.

A mortgage may have a fixed or adjustable interest rate. An adjustable-rate mortgage typically starts with a lower interest rate than its fixed-rate counterpart. The most common repayment period, or mortgage term, is 30 years.

Your ability to qualify for the mortgage you want may depend on your creditworthiness, down payment, and value of the home.

Credit Cards

A credit card is a revolving line of credit that may be used for day-to-day purchases like groceries, gas, or online shopping. Well, you know. You likely have more than one. Gen X and baby boomers have an average of more than four credit cards per person, Experian has found.

Convenience can be one of the best and worst things about using credit cards. You can use them almost anywhere to pay for almost anything. But it can be easy to accrue debt you can’t repay.

Because most credit cards are unsecured, interest rates can be higher than for other types of borrowing. Making late payments or using a high percentage of your credit limit can hurt your credit score. And making just the minimum payment can cost you in interest and credit score.

If you manage your cards wisely, however, credit card rewards can add up. And you may be able to qualify for a low- or no-interest introductory offer.

Credit card issuers typically base a consumer’s interest rate and credit limit on their credit score, income, and other financial factors.

Student Loans

Federal student loans typically offer lower interest rates and more borrower protections than private student loans or other lending options.

But if your federal financial aid package doesn’t cover all of your education costs, it could be worth comparing what private lenders offer.

The Takeaway

A HELOC or a personal line of credit can be useful for borrowers whose costs are spread out over time, especially those who don’t want to pay interest from day one on a lump-sum loan that may be more money than they need.

If you’re a homeowner, tap your home equity with a generous HELOC brokered by SoFi. You might find that the rate and terms unlock lots of possibilities.

Check your rate on a SoFi Personal Loan.

FAQ

What is better, a home equity line of credit or a personal line of credit?

If you qualify for both, a HELOC will almost always come with a lower interest rate.

Can I use a HELOC for personal use?

Yes. HELOC withdrawals can be used for almost anything, but the line of credit is best suited for ongoing expenses like home renovations, medical bills, or college expenses. Some people secure a HELOC as a safety net during uncertain times.

How many years do you have to pay off a HELOC?

Most HELOCs have a “draw period” of 10 years, followed by a repayment period.

What happens if you don’t use your home equity line of credit?

Having a HELOC you don’t use could help your credit score by improving your credit utilization ratio.

How high of a credit score is needed for a line of credit?

Personal lines of credit are usually reserved for borrowers with a credit score of 670 or higher. A credit score of at least 680 is typically needed for HELOC approval, but requirements can vary among lenders. Some may be more lenient if an applicant has a good DTI or accepts a lower loan limit.

Does a HELOC increase your mortgage payments?

The HELOC is a separate loan from your mortgage. The two payments are not made together.

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Photo credit: iStock/KTStock

SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

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If you own a home, you may be interested in tapping into your available home equity. One popular way to do that is with a home equity line of credit. This is different from a home equity loan, and can help you finance a major renovation or many other expenses.

Homeowners sitting on at least 20% equity — the home’s market value minus what is owed — may be able to secure a HELOC.

Here, you’ll take a closer look at this loan product, including:

•   What is a HELOC loan?

•   How does a HELOC loan work?

•   What are the pros and cons of a HELOC?

•   What are alternatives to a HELOC?

How Does a HELOC Work?

The purpose of a HELOC is to tap your home equity to get some cash to use on a variety of expenses. Home equity lines of credit offer what’s known as a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card, and usually have low or no closing costs. The interest rate is likely to be variable (more on that in a minute), and the amount available is typically 75% to 85% of your home’s value.

Once you secure a HELOC with a lender, you can draw against your approved credit line as needed until your draw period ends, which is usually 10 years. You then repay the balance, typically over 20 years, or refinance to a new loan. Worth noting: Payments may be low during the draw period; you might be paying interest only, and then face steeper monthly payments during the repayment phase. Carefully review the details when applying for a HELOC to understand what kind of debt you will be taking on.

Here’s a look at possible HELOC uses:

•   HELOCs can be used for anything but are commonly used to cover big home expenses, like a home remodeling costs or building an addition. These expenditures have been rising steeply: The number of home-improvement projects grew 17% to almost 135 million and spending ticked up 20% to $624 billion, according to recent American Housing Survey data.

•   Personal spending: If, for example, you are laid off, you could tap your HELOC for cash to pay bills. Or you might dip into the line of credit to pay for a wedding (you only pay interest on the funds you are using, not the approved limit).

•   A HELOC can also be used to consolidate high-interest debt. Whatever homeowners use a home equity line or loan for — investing in a new business, taking a dream vacation, funding a college education — they need to remember that they are using their home as collateral. That means if they can’t keep up with payments, the lender may force the sale of the home to satisfy the debt.

HELOC Options

Most HELOCs offer a variable interest rate, but you may have a choice. Here are the two main options:

•   Fixed Rate With fixed-rate home equity lines of credit, the interest rate is set and does not change. That means your monthly payments won’t vary either.

•   Variable Rate Most HELOCs have a variable rate, which is frequently tied to the prime rate, a benchmark index that closely follows the economy. Even if your rate starts out low, it could go up. Or, in these inflationary times, it might go down in the future. A margin is added to the index to determine the interest you are charged. In some cases, you may be able to lock a variable-rate HELOC into a fixed rate.

•   Hybrid fixed-rate HELOCs are not the norm but have gained attention. They allow a borrower to withdraw money from the credit line and convert it to a fixed rate.

HELOC Requirements

Now that you know what a HELOC is, think about what is involved in getting one. If you do decide to apply for a home equity line of credit, you will likely be evaluated on the basis of these criteria:

•   Home equity percentage: Lenders typically look for at least 15% or more commonly 20%.

•   A good credit score: Usually, a score of 680 will help you qualify, though many lenders prefer 700+. If you have a credit score between 621 and 679, you may be approved by some lenders.

•   Low debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: Here, a lender will see how your total housing costs and other debt (say, student loans) compare to your income. The lower your DTI percentage, the better you look to a lender. Your DTI will be calculated by your total debt divided by your monthly gross income. A lender might look for a figure in which debt accounts for anywhere between 36% to 50% of your total monthly income.

Other angles that lenders may look for is a specific income level that makes them feel comfortable that you can repay the debt, as well as a solid, dependable payment history. These are aspects of the factors mentioned above, but some lenders look more closely at these as independent factors.

Example of a HELOC

Here’s an example of how a HELOC might work. Let’s say your home is worth $300,000 and you currently have a mortgage of $200,000. If you seek a HELOC, the lender might allow you allows you to borrow up to 80% of your home’s value:

   $300,000 x 0.8 = $240,000

Next, you would subtract the amount you owe on your mortgage ($200,000) from the qualifying amount noted above ($240,000) to find how big a HELOC you qualify for:

   $240,000 – $200,000 = $40,000.

One other aspect to note is a HELOC will be repaid in two distinct phases:

•   The first part is the draw period, which typically lasts 10 years. At this time, you can borrow money from your line of credit. Your minimum payment may be interest-only, though you can pay down the principal as well, if you like.

•   The next part of the HELOC is known as the repayment period, which is often also 10 years, but may vary. At this point, you will no longer be able to draw funds from the line of credit, and you will likely have monthly payments due that include both principal and interest. For this reason, the amount you pay is likely to rise considerably.

Difference Between a HELOC and a Home Equity Loan

Here’s a comparison of a home equity line of credit and a home equity loan.

•   A HELOC is a revolving line of credit that lets you borrow money as needed, up to your approved credit limit, pay back all or part of the balance, and then borrow up to the limit again through your draw period, typically 10 years.

   The interest rate is usually variable. You pay interest only on the amount of credit you actually use. It can be good for people who want flexibility in terms of how much they borrow and how they use it.

•   A home equity loan is a lump sum with a fixed rate on the loan. This can be a good option when you have a clear use for the funds in mind and you want to lock into a fixed rate that won’t vary.

Borrowing limits and repayment terms may also differ, but both use your home as collateral. That means if you were unable to make payments, you could lose your home.

Recommended: What are the Different Types of Home Equity Loans?

What Is the Process of Applying for a HELOC?

If you’re ready to apply for a home equity line of credit, follow these steps:

•   First, it’s wise to shop around with different lenders to reveal minimum credit score ranges required for HELOC approval. You can also check and compare terms, such as periodic and lifetime rate caps. You might also look into which index is used to determine rates and how much and how often it can change.

•   Then, you can get specific offers from a few lenders to see the best option for you. Banks (online and traditional) as well as credit unions often offer HELOCs.

•   When you’ve selected the offer you want to go with, you can submit your application. This usually is similar to a mortgage application. It will involve gathering documentation that reflects your home’s value, your income, your assets, and your credit score. You may or may not need a home appraisal.

•   Lastly, you’ll hopefully hear that you are approved from your lender. After that, it can take approximately 30 to 60 days for the funds to become available. Usually, the money will be accessible via a credit card or a checkbook.

How Much Can You Borrow With a HELOC?

Depending on your creditworthiness and debt-to-income ratio, you may be able to borrow up to 85% of the value of your home (or, in some cases, even more), less the amount owed on your first mortgage.

Thought of another way, most lenders require your combined loan-to-value ratio (CLTV) to be 85% or less for a home equity line of credit.

Here’s an example. Say your home is worth $500,000, you owe $300,000 on your mortgage, and you hope to tap $120,000 of home equity.

Combined loan balance (mortgage plus HELOC, $420,000) ÷ current appraised value (500,000) = CLTV (0.84)

Convert this to a percentage, and you arrive at 84%, just under many lenders’ CLTV threshold for approval.

In this example, the liens on your home would be a first mortgage with its existing terms at $300,000 and a second mortgage (the HELOC) with its own terms at $120,000.

How Do Payments On a HELOC Work?

During the first stage of your HELOC loan (what is called the draw period), you may be required to make minimum payments toward your HELOC. These are often interest-only payments.

Once the draw period ends, your regular HELOC repayment period begins, when payments must be made toward both the interest and the principal.

Remember that if you have a variable-rate HELOC, your monthly payment could fluctuate over time. And it’s important to check the terms so you know whether you’ll be expected to make one final balloon payment at the end of the repayment period.

Pros of Taking Out a HELOC

Here are some of the benefits of a HELOC:

Initial Interest Rate and Acquisition Cost

A HELOC, secured by your home, may have a lower interest rate than unsecured loans and lines of credit. What is the interest rate on a HELOC? The average HELOC loan rate as of December 15, 2022, was 7.31%.

Lenders often offer a low introductory rate, or teaser rate. After that period ends, your rate (and payments) increase to the true market level (the index plus the margin). Lenders normally place periodic and lifetime rate caps on HELOCs.

The closing costs may be lower than those of a home equity loan. Some lenders waive HELOC closing costs entirely if you meet a minimum credit line and keep the line open for a few years.

Taking Out Money as You Need It

Instead of receiving a lump-sum loan, a HELOC gives you the option to draw on the money over time as needed. That way, you don’t borrow more than you actually use, and you don’t have to go back to the lender to apply for more loans if you end up requiring additional money.

Only Paying Interest on the Amount You’ve Withdrawn

Paying interest only on the amount plucked from the credit line is beneficial when you are not sure how much will be needed for a project or if you need to pay in intervals.

Also, you can pay the line off and let it sit open at a zero balance during the draw period in case you need to pull from it again later.

Cons of Taking Out a HELOC

Now, here are some downsides of HELOCs to consider:

Variable Interest Rate

Even though your initial interest rate may be low, if it’s variable and tied to the prime rate, it will likely go up and down with the federal funds rate. This means that over time, your monthly payment may fluctuate and become less (or more!) affordable.

Variable-rate HELOCs come with annual and lifetime rate caps, so check the details to know just how high your interest rate might go.

Potential Cost

Taking out a HELOC is placing a second mortgage lien on your home. You may have to deal with closing costs on the loan amount, though some HELOCs come with low or zero fees. Sometimes loans with no or low fees have an early closure fee.

Your Home Is on the Line

If you aren’t able to make payments and go into loan default, the lender could foreclose on your home. And if the HELOC is in second lien position, the lender could work with the first lienholder on your property to recover the borrowed money.

Adjustable-rate loans like HELOCs can be riskier than others because fluctuating rates can change your expected repayment amount.

It Could Affect Your Ability to Take On Other Debt

Just like other liabilities, adding on to your debt with a HELOC could affect your ability to take out other loans in the future. That’s because lenders consider your existing debt load before agreeing to offer you more.

Lenders will qualify borrowers based on the full line of credit draw even if the line has a zero balance. This may be something to consider if you expect to take on another home mortgage loan, a car loan, or other debts in the near future.

What Are Some Alternatives to HELOCs

If you’re looking to access cash, here are HELOC options.

Cash-Out Refi

With a cash-out refinance, you replace your existing mortgage with a new mortgage given your home’s current value, with a goal of a lower interest rate, and cash out some of the equity that you have in the home. So if your current mortgage is $150,000 on a $250,000 value home, you might aim for a cash-out refinance that is $175,000 and use the $25,000 additional funds as needed.

Lenders typically require you to maintain at least 20% equity in your home (although there are exceptions). Be prepared to pay closing costs.

Generally, cash-out refinance guidelines may require more equity in the home vs. a HELOC.

Recommended: Cash Out Refi vs. Home Equity Line of Credit: Key Differences to Know

Home Equity Loan

What is a home equity loan again? It’s a lump-sum loan secured by your home. These loans almost always come with a fixed interest rate, which allows for consistent monthly payments.

Some lenders will reduce or waive the closing costs if you don’t pay off the loan within a particular period.

Personal Loan

If you’re looking to finance a big-but-not-that-big project for personal reasons and you have a good estimate of how much money you’ll need, a low-rate personal loan that is not secured by your home could be a better fit.

With possibly few to zero upfront costs and minimal paperwork, a fixed-rate personal loan could be a quick way to access the money you need. Just know that an unsecured loan usually has a higher interest rate than a secured loan.

A personal loan might also be a better alternative to a HELOC if you bought your home recently and don’t have much equity built up yet.

The Takeaway

If you are looking to tap the equity of your home, a HELOC can give you money as needed, up to their approved limit, during a typical 10-year draw period. The rate is usually variable. Sometimes closing costs are waived. It can be an affordable way to get cash to use on anything from a home renovation to college costs.

If a home equity line of credit sounds right for you, see what SoFi offers. We have HELOC options that allow you to access up to 95% or $500,000 of your home’s value at competitively low rates. Plus, the application process is quick and convenient.

Unlock your home’s value with a home equity line of credit brokered by SoFi.

FAQ

What can you use a HELOC for?

It’s up to you what you want to use the cash from a HELOC for. You could use it for a home renovation or addition, or for other expenses, such as college costs or a wedding.

How can you find out how much you can borrow?

Lenders typically require 20% equity in your home and then offer up to 85% or even more of your home’s value, minus the amount owed on your mortgage. There are online tools you can use to determine the exact amount, or contact your bank or credit union.

How long do you have to pay back a HELOC?

Typically, home equity lines of credit have 20-year terms. The first 10 years are considered the draw period and the second 10 years are the repayment phase.

How much does a HELOC cost?

When evaluating HELOC offers, check interest rates, the interest-rate cap, closing costs (which may or may not be billed), and other fees to see just how much you would be paying.

Can you sell your house if you have a HELOC?

Yes, you can sell a house if you have a HELOC. The home equity line of credit balance will typically be repaid from the proceeds of the sales when you close, along with your mortgage.

Does a HELOC hurt your credit?

A HELOC can hurt your credit for a short period of time. Applying for a home equity line can temporarily lower your credit score because a hard credit pull is part of the process when you seek funding. This typically takes your score down a bit.

How do you apply for a HELOC?

First, you’ll shop around and collect a few offers. Once you select the one that suits you best, applying for a HELOC involves sharing much of the same information as you did when you applied for a mortgage. You need to pull together information on your income and assets. You will also need documentation of your home’s value and possibly an appraisal.

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SoFi Mortgages
Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Planning a wedding can be a major endeavor. First, there’s the figuring out financing. According to a recent SoFi survey, the median cost of a wedding is $10,000. And then there’s all the logistics that need wrangling. Dress? Check! Rings? Check! Venue, music, photography, and more?

It can be wise to get organized as early as possible to make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s a look at what you can expect from venues, vendors, and other costs as you plan this happy day.

What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding?

According to The Knot, the average cost of a wedding ceremony and reception in recent years was $19,000, but SoFi’s most recent research found a more affordable median price of $10,000. Either way, that’s a considerable investment: a five-figure amount to pull together or finance.

Typically, the wedding venue and reception account for the largest share of a budget, but all the trimmings (think flowers, gifts for your maid of honor and best man, band, and so forth) all contribute to the bottom line. It’s important to note however, that true wedding costs will vary based on how elaborate the event and the unique vendor and venue costs of the region.

What Goes Into the Cost of a Wedding?

Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking. From the dress to the decor, there are so many details involved that many couples choose to pay the $1,500, on average, for a professional wedding planner to handle them all. These recent numbers are courtesy of The Knot’s Real Wedding Survey.

Pre-Wedding Costs

The purchase of engagement rings is generally what kicks off the entire wedding planning process. While the tradition of spending three month’s salary on a ring may be old and outdated, couples are known to spend $5,500 on rings on average.

The cost of wedding invitations can vary widely depending on many factors. Handmade paper will cost more than cardstock. Letterpress printing will cost more than digital printing. More guests means more invitations, which means a higher cost. The average cost of invitations is $590.

Then comes the dress, which can take months to find. Assuming you’re not bent on purchasing an elaborate couture gown, but definitely want to secure something nicer than what might be found on a bargain rack, a dress can average $1,600.

It would be a mistake not to hold a rehearsal with your full wedding party, and taking the opportunity to treat them to dinner, thanking them for being a part of your celebration, is tradition. Rehearsal dinners can cost around $1900.

Recommended: The Cost of Being in Someone’s Wedding

Vendor Costs

What is your big day if no one is there to capture it? Photographer costs can be as high as $2400 for a wedding. Should you choose to film it as well, you can expect to pay around $1800 for a videographer.

Wedding photos are lifetime memorabilia and people want to look good in them. Average costs for professional services are $110 for hair and another $100 for makeup.

If you need transportation to the wedding, from the wedding to the reception venue, or for a guest shuttle, it can cost around $800 on average.

Wedding decor is a must, and flowers are one of the most common choices. From the choice of your bouquet to the centerpiece arrangements on your guest tables, a proper florist can average $2000.

The star of the show—after the bride—is the cake. Whether traditional white or unconventionally colored, tiered or cupcakes, a wedding cake can cost around $500.

Reception Costs

The reception venue will likely be your largest expense. It is where you will feed and entertain your guests for the longest portion of your celebration and, depending on the type of venue you book, it may or may not come with decor. This can cost around $10,500.

You can’t let your guests go hungry. Catering your reception, accounting for any special dietary restrictions, and toasting with champagne, you’ll pay around $70 per person. If you want to offer top-shelf liquor, that cost can increase.

Now let’s dance! The music is what will set the tone for your celebration, and it’s likely what your guests will remember most after your “I dos.” A DJ can cost around $1200 for a wedding. A live band on the other hand will cost significantly more at $3700.

Some couples choose to give their guests wedding favors, a gift that says ‘thank you for coming.’ Purchasing favors for your guests that remind them of the great time they had on your big day will cost around $400.

A few ways that can help you cut spending costs include trimming the guest list, opting for a cash bar, and enlisting family and friends to help you DIY a few things. Make a shortlist of the planning details that are most important to you and you don’t want to skimp on, and consider spending less on the unlisted details that aren’t as meaningful. Also, be sure to leave a buffer in your budget. You never know if you’ll have to cover an unexpected wedding expense or even a last-minute guest, and having extra room in your budget will allow you to cover those costs without overspending.

Recommended: Affordable Wedding Venue Ideas

Smart Ways to Finance a Wedding

Knowing how much you can expect to spend is only one half of the wedding planning puzzle. The other half is actually funding the spending. With average wedding costs in the tens of thousands of dollars, it’s important to plan ahead so you can enjoy your special day with minimal stress.

Gifts and Contributions

A bride and groom seldom pay for their wedding alone. As a matter of fact, in 2019, couples only contributed 41% toward their total wedding costs with their parents taking on the brunt of expenses. Immediate family members can be a resource to help cover costs and are often happy to do so. Whether it’s the groom’s family that agrees to cover rings and clothes, or the bride’s family that takes care of the flowers and food, having a family discussion about who is able and willing to cover what on your big day can help relieve some of the spending stress.

Also, contributing cash isn’t the only way to help. Any time your family, friends, or even your wedding party can offer with planning, creating, or decorating anything that you might have otherwise paid someone else to do can help keep your budget in the black.

Recommended: Wedding Gift Etiquette

Savings

Being able to cover costs with funds from a saving account is one of the more ideal ways of covering large wedding costs. Couples that plan long engagements might be able to take advantage of this method more so than those with short engagements, simultaneously saving for and planning their big day over several months or years.

Retaining a comfortable amount of savings separate from wedding funds to have on hand for an emergency is always a smart money move that can help prevent financial roadblocks in the future. As much as you may want to fund your big day with savings, if doing so will put you in a financially precarious position or prevent you from reaching other financial goals, it may be better to err on the side of caution. Having those funds post marriage may be more important than spending them now.

Credit Cards

Credit cards provide quick and immediate access to cash that can be used to cover wedding costs. If you have particularly high credit limits, and not much cash on hand, it may be possible for you to cover the entire cost of your wedding on a credit card.

Though this may be one option among many, using your credit card might also come with a few drawbacks, such as high interest rates and an increase in your credit utilization ratio. Charging wedding purchases to your credit cards means you’ll be subject to paying interest on those charges until you pay off those credit cards. Also, using large amounts of credit will increase your credit utilization ratio and could, in turn, trigger a drop in your credit score. If that scenario will keep you from reaching future financial goals, you may want to think twice about using this method.

Personal Loan

Applying for a personal loan is another method for securing wedding funds. Personal loans tend to offer qualified applicants lower interest rates than traditional credit cards. A personal loan may also have a fixed interest rate that can help you manage and maintain steady payments over the life of the loan.

Another benefit of a personal loan is that it can help you build your credit. Diversifying the types of credit you have helps the three credit bureaus view you as a responsible borrower, and in turn may raise your credit score.

The Takeaway

Average costs are just that: average costs. Planning a wedding doesn’t have to be a budget breaker, but an event with this significance does come with some costs that probably don’t easily fit into most budgets. Using a personal loan to pay for wedding costs is reasonable if you are financially able to repay it.

SoFi wedding loans have no fees required, low fixed rates, and can save thousands of dollars in interest compared to using a credit card. Getting prequalified takes just a few minutes, and loans can be funded in as little as three days.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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The average price of a new non-luxury vehicle topped $44,000 in July 2022, according to Kelley Blue Book. That number is dwarfed by the average for a luxury full-size SUV, at over $100,000.

With these prices, buying a new or used car usually involves getting an auto loan. And it’s no surprise that a big car payment can have a major impact on your monthly budget. If money is tight and your credit is excellent, you might be considering refinancing your auto loan.

We’ll discuss the pros and cons of refinancing an auto loan, as well as some alternative financing options you might not be aware of.

What Is a Car Refinance?

Refinancing a car loan essentially means applying for a new loan to pay off the balance on your existing auto loan. The goal is usually a lower interest rate or lower monthly payments. Some people who are unable to lower their rate can attempt to extend their repayment term in order to secure lower monthly payments.

Refinancing a car doesn’t automatically mean a lower interest rate or lower monthly payments. The rate you’re offered depends on your credit score and the lender. But if your credit history and debt-to-income ratio have improved since you took out your car loan, refinancing can potentially save you money. (If you need a refresher on auto loan lingo, this guide to auto loan basics can help.)

Pros of Refinancing a Car Loan

There are a number of situations when it might make sense to refinance a car loan.

1.   Your credit score has improved since you took out your current loan, making it possible to qualify for a lower interest rate on a new loan. If your financial history hasn’t improved since you first got your car loan, or if your credit score has gone down, refinancing might not be for you.

2.   You’re looking to lower your monthly payments, either with an interest-rate reduction or a longer loan term. How much can you save? If your current loan has a term of four years, or 48 months, and a monthly payment of $500, refinancing with a six-year term (60 months) can lower your payments to about $375 — enough to make refinancing worth it for many people.

3.   You want to work with a new lender. Some lenders don’t have the best customer service. That can become a big issue if you have to make a claim. And if you financed your car through the dealership, or if your original lender sold your loan to a third party, you may be better off choosing your own lender and refinancing.

4.   You want to become debt-free faster. If your income has increased or you’ve freed up more money in your budget, you might consider putting more toward your car loan. In that case, you can refinance with a shorter loan term. Your monthly payment will be higher, but you’ll get out of debt faster and own your car outright.

Recommended: Common Uses for Personal Loans

Cons of Refinancing a Car Loan

If you’re deciding whether refinancing is right for you, here are some important caveats:

1.   Extending your loan term on its own doesn’t save you money. Extending the length of a car loan at the same rate will result in lower monthly payments but more interest paid over the life of the loan. For example, a $15,000 auto loan with an APR of 7.5% and five years (60 months) remaining will cost $18,034 in total. Extending that loan to a seven-year period (84 months) will cost $19,326 — a difference of $1,292.

2.   You don’t qualify for a lower interest rate. Refinancing a car loan doesn’t always mean a lower interest rate. If your credit score went down since you took out the loan, you may only be eligible for a higher rate than your current car loan.

3.   You have a balance under $5,000. Most lenders won’t refinance a car loan that has less than $5,000 remaining. For some lenders, the cutoff for refinancing is $7,500.

4.   You have less than two years on your loan. Given the fees and hassle involved in refinancing, it will be very difficult to save money if you have less than 24 months left on your loan.

5.   Your loan has prepayment penalties. Check your existing loan agreement for a “prepayment penalty” clause. If you find one, your current lender can charge you a fee for paying off your loan early — which might cancel out much of your savings.

Recommended: Types of Personal Loans

Alternatives to Car Refinancing

Balance-Transfer Credit Card

Many balance transfer credit cards don’t require interest payments for several months. This move is only worthwhile if the auto loan balance can be paid off during the interest-free time, which can range from six to 21 months.

Be aware that some major credit card issuers don’t allow balance transfers on a loan. And some balance transfers come with a fee of 3% to 5%, which can wipe out much or all of your interest savings.

Personal Loan

A personal loan can be used for almost anything: unexpected medical expenses, home repairs, and yes, paying off an auto loan. Many personal loans are unsecured, meaning they’re not backed by collateral. That makes personal loan interest rates generally lower than credit cards but higher than auto loans.

Personal loan requirements vary by lender. Lenders look at your credit score to help determine your interest rate. The lower your score, the higher your rate. Borrowers also need to show proof of income and employment.

Lenders also look at your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). That’s the ratio of your gross monthly income compared to your monthly debt payments. Lenders prefer a DTI of 36% or lower.

If your car loan balance is over $5,000 and you’re able to get a lower interest rate or change the payback term, a personal loan can be worthwhile. A personal loan calculator can help you decide.

The Takeaway

Although a car loan refinance isn’t for everyone, it may be a good choice for drivers looking to lower their interest rate or change the length of the loan. Some drivers extend their loan term to secure lower monthly payments, but this means they’ll pay more in interest over the life of the loan. Other drivers who want to get out of debt fast may want to shorten their loan term. This will save them money in interest but raise their monthly payments. In some circumstances, it might be worthwhile to pay off your auto loan with a balance-transfer credit card or a personal loan.

If a personal loan of $5,000 to $100,000 sounds like it could be a good fit, check out SoFi fixed-rate personal loans. They come with no fees required and with terms of up to seven years.

Check your rate in just 1 minute.

FAQ

What are the advantages of refinancing your car?

There are a few advantages to refinancing a car loan, though they won’t all apply to every person’s situation. First, if your credit score has improved since you took out the loan, you may qualify for a lower interest rate — and that can save you significant money. Second, even if you don’t get a lower interest rate, refinancing can extend the payback period, lowering your monthly payments. (Just know that you’ll pay more in interest over the life of the loan.) Third, if your income has increased, you might actually want to refinance with a shorter payback term, which may save you money on interest and make you debt-free sooner.

When should you refinance a car loan?

We’re sorry to put it this way, but it depends. Technically, you can refinance a car loan at any time. But typically, you’ll want to wait until your credit score improves to take full advantage of the benefits of refinancing. That can take between six and 12 months. (Also, some lenders won’t consider your application until they’ve seen six to 12 months of your payment history.) On the flip side, you won’t save much money if you have less than two years left on the loan. That’s because lenders charge most of their interest up front.

How soon can you refinance your car loan after purchase?

Although some lenders won’t consider a refinance application until at least six months have passed, you can probably find someone to approve a refinancing as soon as your car rolls off the lot. On the other hand, it’s in the driver’s best interest to wait six to 12 months before refinancing. That way, your credit score has time to improve, qualifying you for a better interest rate — or at least not a lower rate.

Photo credit: Stocksy/Peter Meciar

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SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

¹SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc’s service. Vehicle Identification Number is confirmed by LexisNexis and car values are provided by J.D. Power. Auto Tracker is provided on an “as-is, as-available” basis with all faults and defects, with no warranty, express or implied. The values shown on this page are a rough estimate based on your car’s year, make, and model, but don’t take into account things such as your mileage, accident history, or car condition.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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A construction loan sounds pretty straightforward. Historically, borrowers got them when building a new home on a plot of land. In recent years, more borrowers have been using construction loans for projects like an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a tiny house on a foundation, garage-to-apartment conversion, or basement conversion. But there are complications with this kind of loan that people should be aware of.

We’ll take a look at construction loans, their requirements, and some alternatives to consider.

What Is a Construction Loan?

Construction loans finance the building of a new home or substantial renovations to a current home. They are typically short-term loans with higher interest rates, designed to cover the costs of land, plans, permits and fees, labor, materials, and closing costs. They also cover contingency reserves if construction goes over budget.

How Do Construction Loans Work?

When you buy a house, you can finance the purchase with a mortgage. But when you build a house, getting financing is trickier because there’s no collateral to guarantee the loan. Lenders generally don’t accept undeveloped land as collateral because it cannot be easily appraised and quickly sold.

With construction loans, applicants must submit project plans and schedules along with their financial information. Once approved, they receive funding for the first phase of building only. As construction progresses, assessments are provided to the lender so that the next round of funds can be released. Meanwhile, borrowers make interest-only payments on the funds they’ve received.

When construction is finished — and the borrower now has a home to serve as collateral — the construction loan may be converted to or paid off by a regular mortgage. The borrower then begins repaying both the principal and interest.

Recommended: What Is Revolving Credit?

What Does a Construction Loan Cover?

What construction loans cover varies based on the borrower’s needs. If necessary, these loans can cover the cost of the land, building labor and materials, permits, and a contingency cushion for unforeseen expenses.

Types of Construction Loans

Construction-to-Permanent Loan

Sometimes referred to as a single-close loan, this is a construction loan that converts to a mortgage once the project is finished. The borrower saves money on closing costs by eliminating a second loan closing.

Construction-Only Loan

Also called a standalone construction loan, this loan must be paid off when the building is complete. You will need to apply for a mortgage if you don’t have the cash to do so.

Having separate construction and mortgage loans allows homeowners to shop for the best terms available when applying for each loan. However, they will pay separate closing costs on each loan.

Renovation Construction Loan

This is specifically designed to cover the cost of substantial renovations on an existing home. The loan gets folded into the mortgage once the project is complete.

What Are the Requirements for a Construction Loan?

It’s typically harder to get a construction loan than it is to secure a mortgage. Some people even hire construction loan brokers to facilitate the process. Because your house or ADU isn’t built yet, as we mentioned above, there’s no collateral. And because there’s no collateral, lenders will want to see strong evidence that the home will be completed.

A loan that doesn’t require collateral is also known as an “unsecured loan.” You can learn more about the two types of loans in our guide to secured vs. unsecured loans.

With renovations, the lender wants to see that the project will add to the value of the home. To get an idea of the ROI on your renovation project, check out SoFi’s Home Project Value Estimator.

In order to get approved, you’ll have to show your potential lender an overview of your financial profile, with plenty of documentation. They’ll typically want to see a debt-to-income ratio of 45% or lower and a high credit score.

For new construction projects, they’ll also want you to be able to make a down payment of up to 30%. And for construction-only loans, they may want to know what your repayment plan is — that is, whether you will pay in cash or refinance when the project is complete.

In addition, the lender will want a detailed plan, budget, and schedule for the construction. Some lenders will also need to approve your builder. Because the project will depend on the builder’s ability to complete the construction to specifications, your builder’s reputation may be crucial to getting a construction loan approved.

Lenders typically need to see a builder’s work history, proof of insurance, blueprints, and specifications for the project, a materials list, and your signed construction contract.

What Are the Average Interest Rates and Terms?

Typically, construction loans have variable interest rates that rise and fall with the prime lending rate. They tend to be higher than conventional mortgage rates by about 1%.

The terms also vary. A construction-only loan is usually a short-term loan that must be converted or paid off in one year.

A construction-to-permanent loan will typically have a term of 15 to 30 years once it becomes a permanent mortgage. Again, though, the interest rate will usually be higher than a conventional loan because of the increased risk. The longer the term, the higher the rate tends to be.

Are There Alternatives to Construction Loans?

A lot of time and effort may go into securing a construction loan. It can be difficult to find lenders that offer competitive rates and to qualify for them — particularly if you don’t have a flawless credit history. Plus, construction loans tend to be complicated because it is often the builder who has to carry the loan.

If you are planning a small construction project or renovation, there are a few financing alternatives that might be easier to access and give you more flexibility.

Recommended: The Risks of Payday Loans

Personal Loans for Renovations

An unsecured personal loan can fund a renovation project or supplement other construction financing.

Personal loan interest rates are typically lower than construction loan rates, depending on your financial profile. And you can frequently choose a personal loan with a fixed interest rate.

Personal loans also offer potentially better terms. Instead of being required to pay off the loan as soon as the home is finished, you can opt for a longer repayment period. And getting approved for a personal loan can be much faster and easier than for a construction loan.

The drawbacks? You won’t be able to roll your personal loan into a mortgage once your renovation or building project is finished.

And because the loan is disbursed all at once, you will have to parse out the money yourself, instead of depending on the lender to finance the build in stages.

Cash-Out Refinance for Construction Costs

A cash-out refinance is also a good financing tool, particularly if you have a lot of equity in your current home. With a cash-out refinance, you refinance your home for more than you owe and are given the difference in cash.

You can estimate your building or renovation expenses with this Home Improvement Cost Calculator. Add your estimate to what you owe on your home to get the amount of your refinance.

Using one — or both — of these alternative financing tools may help you avoid some of the hassle and expense that come with construction loans.

The Takeaway

Planning a new home, ADU, or substantial renovation? A construction loan may be the ticket, though this kind of loan is usually harder to get than a mortgage, often carries a higher interest rate, and is typically short-term. For smaller projects, a personal loan or cash-out refinance can be a good option — and a lot less complicated.

Check out SoFi’s personal loan and cash-out refinancing options and get a rate quote in 1 minute.

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SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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