If you’re looking to knock out an expensive task on your to-do list, you have options. One is opening a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which acts as a second mortgage and allows you to use your home’s equity. HELOCs have a revolving credit line, similar to a credit card. With many HELOCs, you […]
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If you’re looking to knock out an expensive task on your to-do list, you have options. One is opening a home equity line of credit (HELOC), which acts as a second mortgage and allows you to use your home’s equity.
HELOCs have a revolving credit line, similar to a credit card. With many HELOCs, you can borrow as much as you need within a generous time frame––often 10 years. Find out more about some of the best Maryland HELOCs available and what to consider before applying in our guide.
Online HELOC lenders, such as the ones we’ve listed below, can save you time by allowing you to apply from anywhere, get almost instant decisions, and access fast funds. They can offer an easy way to compare rates and terms side by side in minutes.
Best overall
Figure offers competitive HELOC rates and a seamless online application process, making it an excellent choice for Maryland homeowners. Figure uses innovative technology to provide a straightforward and efficient borrowing experience, ensuring that customers can access funds with minimal hassle. Its commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction sets it apart from many traditional lenders. Figure’s use of blockchain technology to secure transactions provides an extra layer of security and trust for borrowers. This modern approach, combined with competitive rates and flexible terms, makes Figure an appealing option for those looking to tap into their home equity.
| Rates (APR) | 6.55% – 15.54% |
| Loan amounts | $15,000 – $400,000 |
| Draw period | 5 years |
| Repayment term | 5, 10, 15, or 30 years |
| Funding time | As few as 5 days |
| Properties | Primary home, second home, or investment property |
| Credit score | 640 |
Best credit union
We chose Bethpage for its strong local presence and reputation for excellent customer service. It offers competitive HELOC rates, making it a favorable option for Maryland residents who value community-focused financial institutions.
Bethpage’s commitment to its members is evident in its flexible terms and lack of application or annual fees. Bethpage Federal Credit Union is known for its comprehensive support throughout the borrowing process. It provides personalized guidance and resources, ensuring that members understand their options and can make informed decisions about their home equity loans.
| Rates (APR) | 6.99% for 12 months, then variable |
| Loan amounts | $10,000 – $1 million |
| Draw period | 10 years |
| Repayment term | 5, 10, or 20 years |
| Funding time | 36 – 70 days, on average |
| Properties | Primary |
| Credit score | 670 |
Best marketplace
LendingTree stands out for its unique platform that allows Maryland homeowners to compare multiple HELOC offers from various lenders. This comparison-shopping approach helps users find the best rates and terms tailored to their needs, making the process more transparent and competitive. LendingTree’s extensive network of lenders ensures that borrowers have access to a wide range of options.LendingTree’s user-friendly online platform simplifies the process of obtaining a HELOC. It provides educational resources to help users understand the nuances of home equity loans, ensuring they can make informed decisions. This combination of accessibility, variety, and support makes LendingTree a top choice for HELOC seekers.
| Rates (APR) | Starting at 6.24% |
| Loan amounts | $10,000 – $2 million |
| Draw period | 2 – 20 years |
| Repayment term | 5 – 30 years |
| Funding time | Varies |
| Properties | Varies |
| Credit score | Varies, 620 advisable |
Best for flexible qualification
We chose Hitch for its customer-centric approach and competitive HELOC rates, even as a newer player in the market. It offers a personalized service experience, ensuring that each borrower gets tailored support and guidance. Hitch’s streamlined application process and quick approval times are significant advantages for those needing fast access to funds. Hitch focuses on providing flexibility and convenience to its customers. Its modern platform simplifies the borrowing process, and its competitive rates make it a strong contender in the HELOC market. The combination of personalized service and efficiency makes Hitch an attractive option for Maryland homeowners.
| Rates (APR) | 8.25% – 13.00% |
| Loan amounts | $25,000 – $500,000 |
| Draw period | 10 years |
| Repayment term | 20 years |
| Funding time | 21 days on average |
| Properties | Most single-family homes, including apartments, condominiums, and houses |
| Credit score | 620 (640 preferred) |
Local lenders offer advantages online lenders may not, such as individualized customer service and a deeper knowledge of the local landscape. Interacting with a representative in or near your town may help you get quick answers, special benefits, and support.
| Company | Rates (APR)* | Locations |
| MECU Credit Union | 5.99% – 18.00% 5.99% for 12 months**, then prime minus 0.25% | Multiple (Central Maryland) |
| Point Breeze Credit Union | 2.49% – 18.00% 2.49% for 12 months**, then based on prime rate | Multiple (Central Maryland) |
| Central Credit Union of Maryland | 1.49% – 18.00% 1.49% for 12 months**, then prime rate minus 0.25% | Baltimore, Loch Raven, and Perry Point |
The rates above are variable after the 12-month introductory period ends, and the lenders base their rates on the prime rate, which banks offer their best-qualified customers, along with a margin.
If you’re considering applying for a Maryland HELOC with any of these lenders, in addition to the low introductory rate, pay attention to the closing costs and other fees you’ll owe.
Beyond the best rate for your HELOC, the lender’s location and specific member benefits you’ll use can help you decide on the best option.
Choose between online and local Maryland HELOC lenders based on your financial situation, what you plan to do with the funds, how much you value convenience and customer service, and whether you can pay off your loan sooner rather than later.
Online lenders offer fast decisions and allow for easy rate comparisons from your home. Local lenders can provide a safer way to discuss personal information and an opportunity for professional guidance.
The local lenders we mentioned above can be best for borrowers who want a low introductory APR, to visit a local branch when needed, and unique credit union member benefits.
But if you prefer an easy, user-friendly online experience, fixed rates, and easy comparison shopping, an online lender might be right for you.
In July 2024, the national average HELOC rate is around 9.17%. Many lenders set their rates based on the prime rate, which is now 8.50%, plus an additional margin. In Maryland, lenders tend to follow this trend, using the prime rate as a benchmark, with some offering rates a bit lower.
For creditworthy borrowers with sufficient home equity (often 15% to 20%), living in Maryland doesn’t have a significant impact on HELOC rates, aside from attractive introductory rates during the first year.
Maryland’s average HELOC rates are slightly below the national average. With excellent credit, you might secure rates a few percentage points lower than the national average or those in other states. The key is to maintain a strong credit history, which can help reduce the interest you pay over the life of the loan, saving you time and money. Be sure to consider all your options before committing to a HELOC.
Your eligibility for a HELOC in Maryland can depend on your home equity, credit score, and debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—your monthly debt payments divided by your monthly gross income. A lower credit score or higher DTI increases your risk to lenders, making it harder to secure favorable terms.
To improve your chances of getting a reasonable rate, aim for a FICO credit score above 800, limit your debt relative to your income, and increase your home equity by making extra mortgage payments if possible.
Take the time to compare offers. Spending 20 minutes or less comparing rates and terms can help you find the best HELOC. Start by checking rates online and visiting local lenders. When evaluating your options, consider the following:
In Maryland, you may be required to borrow at least $5,000. Consider another option if you need to borrow less. Before applying for a HELOC in Maryland, read the disclosures. The specific terms, including homeowner’s and flood insurance, should be clear.
You’re responsible for informing your lender of significant changes that may affect your home’s value and the terms of your HELOC. If you sell your home, for instance, your lender would require repayment before you get any of the sale proceeds.
Before entering into a HELOC or any loan agreement, gather all the necessary information to give you peace of mind and empower you to make decisions that will bring you closer to your financial and personal goals. Borrowing is a risk, whether through HELOCs or another avenue. So if your project can wait, consider pushing it to a later date and saving up over time.
Most lenders require a minimum credit score of around 620 to qualify for a HELOC in Maryland. However, to secure the best rates and terms, a FICO credit score above 700 is ideal. Lenders will also consider other factors, such as income, employment history, and debt-to-income ratio, when evaluating your application.
Typical fees for a Maryland HELOC can include application fees, appraisal fees, annual fees, and closing costs. These fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the lender and the loan amount. Some lenders may waive certain fees or offer promotions to reduce upfront costs, so be sure to inquire about fee structures when comparing HELOC options.
Some lenders and financial institutions may offer special programs or incentives for Maryland HELOCs. These can include discounted rates for current customers, no-closing-cost options, or promotional rate periods. Certain community banks or credit unions might have unique programs tailored to local residents. It’s best to check with various lenders to see whether special offers are available.
If you move to another state with a HELOC in Maryland, the terms of your loan remain the same. However, you must continue making payments as agreed upon in your original loan agreement. It’s important to notify your lender of your new address to ensure you receive all necessary communications. Moving shouldn’t affect the loan itself, but if you sell the home securing the HELOC, you’ll need to pay off the remaining balance from the proceeds of the sale.
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