HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) Calculator
Estimate your maximum borrowing limit and potential monthly payments.
Calculation Summary
Warning: Based on your current mortgage balance and the selected LTV, you may not have enough equity for a HELOC.
Understanding Your HELOC Limit
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving credit line that uses your home's equity as collateral. Unlike a standard home equity loan, a HELOC allows you to withdraw funds as needed, repay them, and borrow again during the "draw period."
How is a HELOC Calculated?
Lenders typically use a Combined Loan-to-Value (CLTV) ratio to determine your borrowing power. Most lenders permit a CLTV of 80% to 85%, though some may go higher for borrowers with excellent credit scores.
The formula used in our calculator is:
- Step 1: Home Value × LTV Limit = Total Allowable Debt
- Step 2: Total Allowable Debt – Current Mortgage Balance = Maximum HELOC Limit
Real-World Example
Imagine your home is worth $400,000 and you still owe $250,000 on your primary mortgage. If a lender allows an 80% LTV:
- 80% of $400,000 = $320,000 (Total Allowable Debt)
- $320,000 – $250,000 = $70,000 (Your HELOC Limit)
Key Factors That Influence Your Approval
- Credit Score: Higher scores (720+) often unlock lower interest rates and higher LTV limits.
- Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders prefer a DTI below 43% to ensure you can manage the additional monthly payments.
- Home Appraisal: The final amount is always based on a professional appraisal, not just an online estimate.
Pros and Cons of a HELOC
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Only pay interest on what you use. | Variable interest rates can rise over time. |
| Lower interest rates than credit cards. | Your home is the collateral (risk of foreclosure). |
| Potential tax benefits (if used for home improvements). | Minimum withdrawal requirements may apply. |
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only. Actual loan amounts and interest rates depend on lender criteria, credit scores, and verified appraisals.