The equity in your home that you can access and borrow is known as tappable equity. A home equity loan (HEL) can help you maximize your home equity, whether you're looking to fund home improvement projects or consolidate debt.
Maryland's home equity loan rates are slightly below national averages — 7.6% APR for a 10-year term (7.7% nationally) and 7.9% APR for a 15-year term (7.9% nationally). We've compiled detailed insights on current home equity loan rates in Maryland, including city-specific rates, top lenders, and tips on securing the best rates for using your home's equity.
Home Equity Loan Rates in Maryland (November 2024)
The current home equity loan rates in Maryland for 10-year loans are at 7.6% this November, slightly below the national average of 7.7%. For 15-year loans, Maryland's rate is 7.9%, the same as 7.9% nationally.
Updated: November 24, 2024
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Key Takeaways
Higher LTV ratios lead to higher rates. The average APR for a 15-year HEL in Maryland with an 80% LTV is 7.7%, compared to 8.1% for a 90% LTV.
HEL rates vary by city in Maryland. For example, for 15-year loans, Pocomoke City has an average APR of 6.0%, whereas Chesapeake Beach's is 9.4%.
Different lenders offer varying rates for the same loan types. Dover Federal Credit Union's average APR is 5.4%, whereas Univest Bank and Trust Co.'s is 10.3%.
MoneyGeek examined 55 different banks and credit unions in Maryland using S&P Global's SNL Depository Rates dataset to stay current on the latest home equity loan rates.
This data is accurate as of November 2024.
Current Home Equity Loan Rates in Maryland
The current average APR for a 15-year home equity loan in Maryland is 7.9%, but several factors might affect what lenders offer. For instance, having a higher credit score usually results in a lower APR, while a larger loan amount could increase your rate. Repayment terms also play a role in determining your rate. Check out the table below to compare the average APRs of home equity loans in Maryland across different loan terms.
10Year | 7.6% |
15Year | 7.9% |
5Year | 7.2% |
Interest rates for home equity loans change daily. Monitoring these rates can help you pay less in interest over the life of the loan, saving you money. If you have high-interest debts, a home equity loan at a lower rate can help consolidate those debts and reduce your overall interest payments.
For instance, a 15-year home equity loan with a 7.8% APR has a monthly payment of $472 and results in total interest of $34,973. In contrast, a 10-year loan with a 7.6% APR requires a monthly payment of $596, with total interest of $21,535.
Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are popular options for homeowners to tap into their home's equity. In Maryland, home equity loan rates average 7.5%, while HELOC rates in Maryland average 8.5%. Home equity loans have fixed rates, offering stability, whereas HELOCs have variable rates.
Fixed rates mean predictable monthly payments, providing financial stability. On the other hand, HELOC rates in Maryland can start lower but may increase, leading to higher payments over time. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision.
Home Equity Loan Rates by LTV Ratio
The rate you qualify for depends on your loan-to-value ratio, which measures how much you owe on your mortgage compared to your home's appraised value. To calculate your LTV ratio, divide your current mortgage balance by your home's appraised value and multiply by 100. For instance, if your home is valued at $300,000 and you owe $240,000 on your mortgage, your LTV ratio is 80%.
A higher LTV ratio presents a greater risk to lenders, resulting in higher rates. The average APR of a 15-year equity loan in Maryland with an LTV ratio of 80% is 7.7%, compared to 8.1% for an LTV ratio of 90%. Use the table to see what rates you might qualify for based on your LTV ratio.
7.5% | 7.9% |
Home Equity Loan Rates by City in Maryland
Average APRs vary between cities in Maryland due to several factors. Cities with higher living costs may see slightly higher rates, as lenders face increased operational expenses. Additionally, differences in property taxes or local fees can influence rates, affecting overall borrowing costs.
In Maryland, Pocomoke City has an average APR of 5.6%, while Whiteford has an average APR of 9.6%. Below is a table that shows the cities in Maryland and their average home equity loan rates for different terms.
10Year | 8.6% |
15Year | 8.5% |
5Year | 8.9% |
Home Equity Loan Lenders in Maryland
Home equity loan rates in Maryland vary widely between lenders due to differing policies and market strategies. For instance, Dover Federal Credit Union offers the lowest average APR at 5.4%, while Univest Bank and Trust Co. has the highest at 10.3%.
Comparing rates and terms from various lenders is crucial for obtaining the lowest home equity loan rates. Explore the interactive table below to see which lenders offer the most competitive rates in your city.
First National Bank of Pennsylvania | 6.3% |
TD Bank | 8.3% |
PNC Bank | 10.0% |
Considering credit unions can be beneficial when seeking home equity loan rates in Maryland. They offer an average APR of 7.3%, compared to 8.1% from commercial banks. While credit unions typically provide lower rates, they may have stricter membership requirements. Exploring these options can help you secure better terms.
How to Get the Best Home Equity Loan Rate in Maryland
Obtaining the best home equity loan rates can lead to lower monthly payments and reduced borrowing costs, enhancing your financial flexibility. Imagine using these savings to fund home improvements or consolidate debt. To achieve the best home equity loan rates in Maryland, consider these strategies:
Compare lenders
Lenders may offer different APRs for the same loan amount and credit profile. For instance, Dover Federal Credit Union advertises an average APR of 5.4%, while Univest Bank and Trust Co. offers 10.3%. Comparing different home equity loan lenders in Maryland can help you find better rates.
Increase your home's equity
Having more equity in your home can result in more competitive rates from lenders. Maryland homeowners can increase their home's equity by kitchen remodels or adding home offices.
Improve your credit score
Increasing your credit score can lead to more competitive home equity loan rates. Pay bills on time and reduce credit card debt to improve your credit score. The average credit score in Maryland is 716, according to Experian.
Decrease debt-to-income ratio
A lower debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward paying debts — can lead to better rates as insurers see you as a less risky borrower.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Provide your income and recurring payments to calculate your DTI.
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FAQ About Home Equity Loan Rates in Maryland
MoneyGeek answers common questions about home equity loan rates for Maryland homeowners. We provide clear, factual information on how rates are determined and current averages in the state. Understanding these factors helps homeowners make informed decisions about their financial options.
What is the interest rate on a home equity loan in Maryland?
As of November 2024, the average APRs for home equity loans in Maryland are 7.2% for 5-year, 7.6% for 10-year, and 7.9% for 15-year terms. Rates may vary based on factors like your credit score.
How do you calculate your home equity in Maryland?
Calculate your home equity by subtracting your remaining mortgage balance from your home's current market value, considering home equity requirements.
Do home equity loan rates vary between cities in Maryland?
Yes, rates can vary. For instance, Pocomoke City has an average APR of 5.6%, while Whiteford is at 9.6% as of November 2024.
Does a home equity loan in Maryland have tax benefits?
Interest on a home equity loan may be tax-deductible if the funds are used for home improvements, but this depends on individual circumstances.
What are possible drawbacks of securing a home equity loan in Maryland?
Potential drawbacks include the risk of foreclosure if payments aren't met and possible changes in home value affecting equity.
How long does it take to get a home equity loan in Maryland?
The process typically takes two to six weeks, depending on the lender and the complexity of your application.
How do you get a home equity loan in Maryland?
To get a home equity loan, evaluate your eligibility for a home equity loan and meet credit score requirements.
What can I use my funds for? Are there any home equity loan use restrictions in Maryland?
Funds can typically be used for home improvements, debt consolidation, or other personal expenses, but restrictions may apply based on the lender's policies.
Can you only take out a home equity loan in Maryland on your primary residence?
While you can apply for a home equity loan on your primary residence, some lenders may allow loans on secondary properties, though terms may vary.
What other home equity products can you consider if you want to tap into your home's equity in Maryland?
Besides home equity loans, consider a HELOC or a cash-out refinance, each being a different type of loan with unique terms.
What's the difference between a HELOC and a home equity loan?
A HELOC offers a flexible draw period and may include an annual fee, whereas a home equity loan provides a lump sum with fixed interest rates.
About Zachary Romeo, CBCA
Zachary Romeo is a certified Commercial Banking and Credit Analyst (CBCA), and the Head of Loans and Banking at MoneyGeek. Previously, he led production teams for some of the largest online informational resources in higher education, with over 13 years of experience in editorial production.
Romeo has a bachelor's degree in biological engineering from Cornell University. He geeks out on minimizing personal debt and helping others do the same through people-first content.
sources
- Experian. "What Is the Average Credit Score in the U.S.?." Accessed November 24, 2024.
- TransUnion. "Home Equity Trends Report — Q4 2023." Accessed November 24, 2024.