A second mortgage can either be a
fixed-rate loan or an adjustable-rate credit line. Interest
rates and loan program terms will vary from lender to lender so
it is important to shop around and compare before committing to
any one offer. A second mortgages are ideal when you just want
to tap into your equity, plan to move soon, or are unsure about
the amount you want to borrow. Another plus of a second mortgage
loan is that the interest you pay back on the loan may be tax
deductible.
Consult your tax advisor regarding your
personal situation but in most cases the interest is 100% fully
deductible as long as the combined loan to value of your 1st and
2nd mortgage do not exceed the value of your home. Loan proceeds
from a second mortgage loan can be used for just about anything.
Many consumers take out 2nd mortgage loans to consolidate debt,
do home improvements or pay for their kids college education.
Whatever you decide to do with your loan proceeds it is
important to remember that if you default on your payment you
can lose your home so you will want to make sure that you are
taking the loan out for a worthwhile purpose.
A second mortgages aren't for everyone. You
should weigh the cost of PMI and payments when choosing your
financing options. Borrowing more than 80% of your home's value
will subject you to private mortgage insurance. Your monthly
payments should also be a factor in your decision. By taking out
equity when refinancing your home, you will have a lower payment
than if you had both a mortgage and 2nd mortgage payment. Also,
if you refinance in the future,
you will have to pay off your 2nd mortgage.