<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">Home equity loans and HELOCs allow homeowners to borrow against their homes' value with different repayment structures.HELOCs offer flexibility as a revolving line of credit, while home equity loans provide a lump sum at a fixed rate.Both options use the property as collateral, and failure to repay can result in the loss of the home.HELOCs of varying amounts - $100K, $250K, and $500K - cater to different financial needs and projects.Different term lengths, like 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 years, offer borrowers flexibility in repayment schedules.Home equity reflects the portion of the home the owner possesses compared to the lender.Utilizing home equity through loans or HELOCs is common for home improvements, debt consolidation, and more.Home equity accrues as mortgage payments are made, increasing the owner's stake in the property.LTV ratios determine how much equity can be accessed, typically not exceeding 80% of the home's value.Calculating home equity involves subtracting the mortgage balance from the home's current appraised value.For example, a $500,000 home with a $250,000 mortgage balance has $250,000 in equity with a 50% LTV.Lenders usually approve home equity loans based on specific LTV ratios, often capped at 80%.