Best HELOC Rates and Lenders in Alabama (2024)

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Reviewed byTimothy Manni
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Reviewed byTimothy Manni
Edited byBenjamar Gabawa
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Updated: April 24, 2024

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The best home equity line of credit (HELOC) lender in Alabama is Lower. It offers competitive rates ranging from 8.75% to 13.5% for loan amounts between $15,000 and $500,000. As an online-only lender, it doesn't have physical branches, making it accessible to borrowers with internet access statewide. MoneyGeek's scrutiny of various lenders took into account more than just cost to determine the best option.

MoneyGeek's study included 13 HELOC lenders in Alabama. While there's a broader market of lenders, not all were part of this analysis. Besides the best HELOC lender, local providers like Alabama Credit Union, Alabama Central Credit Union and Avadian Credit Union also offer products with unique benefits for Alabamians.

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    Overall Best HELOC Lender in Alabama

  • Lower

    • 8.75% to 13.5%APR Range
    • $15,000 to $500,000Loan Amount Range
    • 580Minimum Credit Score
    • 10-year draw period; undisclosed repayment period Repayment Terms
    • NoneAnnual Fees

    Lower is the best HELOC lender in Alabama for homeowners looking to use their home equity. With APRs ranging from 8.75% to 13.5%, Lower accommodates various financial situations. The loan amount range spans from $15,000 to $500,000, providing flexibility for small and large projects. A minimum credit score of 580 makes it accessible to a wider audience. Lower's no annual fee and an A+ rating from the BBB offer additional peace of mind, while personalized support ensures that homeowners get the help they need once they start the application process online.

    Pros

    • No annual fee
    • Credit scores from 580 accepted
    • Personalized post-loan support

    Cons

    • No rate discounts offered
    • No fixed-rate HELOC conversion
    • Unclear repayment period length
    Lower
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HELOC Rates in Alabama by Credit Score

When opting for a home equity line of credit (HELOC), Alabama homeowners should note that the APR can vary. Even with good credit and a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio under 80%, rates differ based on your chosen repayment terms. Refer to the provided table to see rate adjustments for different parameters.

Loan Type
APR

HELOC (10 year)

7.24%

HELOC (15 year)

7.24%

HELOC (20 year)

7.24%

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Comparing APRs from different HELOC lenders in Alabama can save you money over the life of your loan. A lower APR means less interest paid, making your borrowing experience more cost-effective. Different lenders offer varied rates, so taking time to compare can lead to significant savings.

HELOC Calculator: Do You Qualify in Alabama?

In Alabama, your shot at a HELOC does hinge on a mix of things, like equity in your home and your credit score. High home equity can often mean room to borrow more, and this is backed by TransUnion's report.

With an average credit score sitting at 692, per findings from Experian data, those around this number may be well-positioned for a HELOC. To pinpoint your eligibility, the HELOC calculator is a direct route. It allows for experimentation with various inputs, sharpening your search for an optimal HELOC fit.

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    Best HELOC Lender in Alabama for Affordability

  • Aven

    • 7.99% to 15.49%APR Range
    • Up to $250,000Loan Amount Range
    • 620Minimum Credit Score
    • Unlimited draw period; 5 to 10-year repayment period for cash out;Repayment Terms
    • NoneAnnual Fees

    Aven is the top pick for Alabama homeowners seeking cost savings in HELOC options. With an APR range from 7.99% to 15.49%, it doesn't charge annual fees, leading to savings. Additionally, Aven's product is a hybrid HELOC that works like a credit card backed by your home's equity. It's reported as a HELOC on your credit report to credit bureaus. Potential savings are boosted by a 0.25% rate discount for setting up autopay. This might benefit those prioritizing affordability, as there are no additional costs for origination, annual fees or prepayment.

    Pros

    • Provides a home equity-backed credit card
    • No origination or annual fees
    • Earns unlimited 2% cashback

    Cons

    • Line limit up to $250,000 max
    • 2.5% fee for certain cash outs
    • 10-day wait for card arrival
    Aven
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    Best HELOC Lender in Alabama for Bad Credit

  • U.S. Bank

    • 8.95% to 13.1%APR Range
    • $15,000 to $750,000Loan Amount Range
    • 660Minimum Credit Score
    • 10-year draw period; up to 20-year repayment periodRepayment Terms
    • Up to $75Annual Fees

    U.S. Bank is the go-to for Alabama homeowners with bad credit looking for a HELOC. Your credit score doesn't lock you out. With a minimum score of 660, U.S. Bank keeps the door open. The APR range is competitive, from 8.95% to 13.1%, and you can lower it further with a 0.5% discount for setting up autopay. Plus, there's no huge commitment — loan amounts start as low as $15,000. For those navigating financial waters with a less-than-perfect credit history, this lender offers a stable option. U.S. Bank is accredited by the BBB, though it currently does not have a rating.

    Pros

    • Offers a fixed-rate option
    • Prequalify online feature
    • 0.5% autopay discount

    Cons

    • Must close in-person at a center
    • Early closure fee up to $500
    • $75 annual fee
    U.S. Bank
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    Best HELOC Lender in Alabama for Large Loans

  • Bank of America

    • Starting at 9.82%APR Range
    • $25,000 to $1,000,000Loan Amount Range
    • UndisclosedMinimum Credit Score
    • 10-year draw period; 20-year repayment periodRepayment Terms
    • NoneAnnual Fees

    Bank of America is the best in Alabama for large HELOC needs. It offers a notable max loan limit up to $1 million and combines this with a 20-year repayment term, helping you manage payments over time. Additionally, the absence of annual fees during the loan's lifetime can save you money. Aven's product is a hybrid HELOC in that it functions like a credit card backed by your home’s equity but appears as a HELOC on credit reports. Homeowners in Alabama can fund high-cost items like home improvements or significant life events with confidence, knowing these favorable terms aid in long-term financial planning.

    Pros

    • Max loan amount is $1 million
    • No fees for application, annual or closing
    • Offers financial hardship assistance

    Cons

    • Minimum online loan is $25,000
    • Must close in-person at branch
    • Charges $450 early closure fee
    Bank of America
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    Best HELOC Lender in Alabama for Debt Consolidation

  • PNC Bank

    • 8.22% to 14.5%APR Range
    • $10,000 to $1,000,000Loan Amount Range
    • UndisclosedMinimum Credit Score
    • Undisclosed draw period; 5-30 year repayment periodRepayment Terms
    • $50Annual Fees

    PNC Bank is the best HELOC lender in Alabama for consolidating high-interest debts like credit card balances and personal loans. With a HELOC, you want a lender that offers lower interest rates than your current debts, provides quick access to funds, and has a loan limit high enough to cover your balances. PNC Bank has a minimum APR of 8.22% and a maximum APR of 14.5%, which can be reduced by 0.25% when you set up autopay from a qualifying PNC checking account, allowing for potential savings over time. Homeowners in Alabama can receive their funds as quickly as three days after closing. Plus, with a maximum loan amount of $1 million, most homeowners will find their debt consolidation needs well-covered. PNC Bank's product is versatile, enabling you to switch from variable to fixed rates when needed.

    Pros

    • Borrow up to $1 million
    • Autopay rate reduction of 0.25%
    • Reimburses various fees

    Cons

    • Charges a $50 annual fee
    • Does not disclose most info
    • Charges a late fee
    PNC Bank
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How to Choose a HELOC Lender in Alabama

Now that MoneyGeek has highlighted the top HELOC lenders in Alabama, you may wish to browse further. These strategies streamline your search, catering to your unique financial needs in finding a suitable lender.

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FAQ: HELOC Lenders and Rates in Alabama

Confused about picking a HELOC lender in Alabama? These FAQs tackle common queries to guide you in finding a lender that matches your financial needs and goals, ensuring you make an informed decision for your home equity line of credit.

A good HELOC rate in Alabama is around 7%. This rate generally applies with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 80% or less and a credit score between 680 to 740. However, homeowners should be aware that rates may vary depending on individual creditworthiness and the specific lender chosen.

Lower is considered the best overall HELOC lender in Alabama due to its competitive APR range of 8.75% to 13.5%, accommodating loan amount range from $15,000 to $500,000, and relatively low minimum credit score requirement of 580. These features make it an attractive option for a wide range of homeowners.

Yes, homeowners with bad credit can still qualify for a HELOC in Alabama. U.S. Bank, for instance, offers HELOC options for those with a credit score as low as 660, though conditions like higher APRs and stricter terms may apply.

Bank of America is recommended for large loans, with a significant loan amount range of $25,000 to $1 million and no annual fees. Homeowners seeking substantial funds often do so for large-scale home renovation projects or to invest in property.

Yes, a HELOC can be a smart choice for debt consolidation due to potential lower interest rates compared to other debts. MoneyGeek's pick, PNC Bank, offers a range from 8.22% to 14.5% APR, funds available within three days after closing, and loan amounts up to $1 million, which can be significant when consolidating large debts.

Finding the right HELOC lender in Alabama depends on your intended use for the funds and your individual financial situation. Assessing your needs and comparing different lenders' offers will help determine the best match for your specific requirements, such as repayment terms and borrowing limits.

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