Best HELOC Rates and Best HELOC Lenders in North Carolina (September 2024)

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Updated: September 10, 2024

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The best home equity line of credit (HELOC) lender in North Carolina is Lower. It offers competitive rates from 8.75% to 13.5% for homeowners seeking to tap into their home equity. Borrowers can get loans ranging from $15,000 to $500,000 without annual fees, serving a broad spectrum of financial needs. MoneyGeek acknowledges that Lower's merits span beyond cost, factoring in its offerings and accessibility.

MoneyGeek's study included 16 HELOC lenders in North Carolina. While there are additional lenders beyond this analysis, local options like Summit Credit Union, Coastal Credit Union and Piedmont Advantage Credit Union are worth considering for their unique benefits. These institutions cater to different financial scenarios and can be excellent alternatives for homeowners.

Best HELOC Lenders in North Carolina

Best Overall: Lower

Best for Affordability: Aven

Best for Bad Credit: U.S. Bank

Best for Large Loan Amounts: Bank of America

Best for Debt Consolidation: PNC Bank

We evaluated each lender in our research against a rubric including APR ranges, annual fees and affordability.

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Our analysis was completed in September 2024 and includes lenders that do business in North Carolina.

16Lenders Analyzed

    Overall Best HELOC Lender in North Carolina

  • 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 top choice for a HELOC lender in North Carolina. Homeowners looking for a flexible way to use their home equity find Lower's APR range of 8.75% to 13.5% and loan amounts from $15,000 to $500,000 suitable for diverse needs. With a minimum credit score requirement of 580, it opens doors for a wider audience.

    Lower's transparency ensures easy access to rate and term information, aiding in informed decision-making without the hassle. Enjoy no annual fee and receive personalized support to guide you through the borrowing process, cementing Lower's commitment to user-friendly experiences.

    Pros

    • Accepts credit scores as low as 580
    • Provides personalized support after completion
    • Minimum loan amount is $15,000

    Cons

    • No rate discounts offered
    • Does not disclose repayment period
    • No fixed-rate HELOC conversion
    Lower

HELOC Rates in North Carolina By Credit Score

For North Carolina homeowners, understand that your home equity line of credit (HELOC)'s APR isn't one-size-fits-all. Even with good credit and an LTV Ratio below 80%, rates vary with different repayment terms. Use the table to see rate changes against selected parameters.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Credit Score:
Credit Score:680 - 740
LTV Ratio:
LTV Ratio:80% - 95%
HELOC (10 year)APR6.68%
HELOC (15 year)APR6.68%
HELOC (20 year)APR6.68%

Where does this data come from?

Shopping around for the best annual percentage rate (APR) on a HELOC in North Carolina can save you money. A lower APR means less interest over time, making each borrowing dollar stretch further. Differing APRs significantly impact overall loan costs, shaping your financial flexibility during the loan's life. Choose wisely to keep more cash in your pocket.

HELOC Calculator: Do You Qualify in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, homeowners enjoy an average tappable equity of $139,000, as per TransUnion's report from the last quarter of 2023. With considerable home equity, you may be able to borrow substantial funds against it. Meanwhile, with an average credit score of 709 cited by Experian, matching or exceeding this figure bodes well for HELOC approval.

Eligibility for a HELOC in North Carolina is grounded on multiple elements, with equity and credit score being key. To better understand your options, use our HELOC calculator. It helps you gauge your eligibility by adjusting figures like equity levels and credit scores, easing your search for a fitting HELOC lender.

HELOC Calculator
Discover borrowing capacity, interest rates, and make informed financial choices with confidence!
You may be eligible for a HELOC. Because you have an LTV at or below 85%, you may be approved for a home equity line of credit.
10 Years Payoff Scenario
$732/mo
Eligible to Borrow
$62,500
Loan-to-Value Ratio
80%
Note: Lenders set varying limits on the acceptable Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio, depending on the property type (owner-occupied or investment). Typically, owner-occupied homes have a higher acceptable LTV, often capped at 85%.

    Best HELOC Lender in North Carolina 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 best HELOC lender for North Carolina homeowners wanting to keep costs low. With an APR range of 7.99% to 15.49%, Aven offers significant savings through no annual fees and the chance to reduce rates by 0.25% with autopay.

    Aven's product functions like a credit card but taps into home equity, providing a flexible financial tool without the usual penalties or fees. Homeowners benefit from manageable costs, custom cash out options and quick access to funds.

    Pros

    • Earns you 2% unlimited cashback
    • No origination and annual fees
    • 0.25% rate reduction for autopay

    Cons

    • Line limit only up to $250,000
    • Card arrival time 10 business days
    • One-time 2.5% cash out fee
    Aven

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for affordability?


    Best HELOC Lender in North Carolina 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 best HELOC lender for homeowners in North Carolina with bad credit. Bad credit doesn't mean you can't get a HELOC. U.S. Bank requires a minimum credit score of 660 and offers a competitive APR range from 8.95% to 13.1%, as well a 0.5% discount for autopay sign-ups.

    Though it currently does not have a rating, U.S. Bank is accredited by the BBB — ensuring reliability for North Carolinians looking to tap into their home equity.

    Pros

    • Offers a fixed-rate option
    • Allows for interest-only payments
    • Minimum line amount is only $15,000

    Cons

    • In-person closing required
    • Early closure fee applies
    • Annual fee of $75 charged
    U.S. Bank

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for people with bad credit?


    Best HELOC Lender in North Carolina 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 top choice for North Carolina homeowners seeking a HELOC for large loan amounts. Homeowners can benefit from this type of credit by addressing big-ticket expenses, such as home renovations or education costs.

    With Bank of America, borrowers enjoy a HELOC with a $1 million cap, no annual fee and a repayment period that extends to 20 years following a 10-year draw period. It's beneficial for those needing both substantial funds and time to pay it back. Additionally, it offers financial hardship assistance to support borrowers when needed.

    Pros

    • Competitive introductory rate for six months
    • Max loan amount up to $1 million
    • Financial hardship assistance available

    Cons

    • Closing must be in person at a branch
    • Undisclosed HELOC minimum requirements
    • Charges $450 early closure fee
    Bank of America

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for large loan amounts?


    Best HELOC Lender in North Carolina 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 go-to for debt consolidation in North Carolina. If you're juggling high-rate credit cards or personal loans, a HELOC can be a strategic move to get on top of your finances. Its minimum APR is a competitive 8.22% and its maximum APR reaches 14.5%. For many, this can prove less expensive than the existing interest rates on other types of debt.

    PNC also enables quick access to funds, often within three days after closing. The maximum loan amount of $1 million would typically cover all your balances. Plus, PNC Bank has perks like rate discounts for autopay enrollment. And if you hit a rough patch, it offers financial hardship assistance.

    Pros

    • Switch between variable and fixed rates
    • Autopay rate reduction from PNC account
    • Assistance during financial hardship

    Cons

    • Charges a $50 annual fee
    • Does not disclose most information online
    • Charges a fee for rate lock changes
    PNC Bank

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for debt consolidation?

How to Choose a HELOC Lender in North Carolina

MoneyGeek has showcased its top HELOC lenders in North Carolina, reflecting diverse homeowner needs. While these options are stellar, you might wish to broaden your search. Here are strategies to find a HELOC lender that aligns with your financial goals.

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    Identify Your HELOC Purpose

    Understanding your HELOC's purpose can guide you to the right lender in North Carolina. For instance, if you're renovating, a lender with flexible draw periods may fit. Conversely, debt consolidation may benefit from low interest periods.

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    Check Lender Reputation

    Always review a lender's standing with the Better Business Bureau and the NC Commissioner of Banks. A solid reputation signifies reliability, ensuring your HELOC experience in North Carolina is with a trustworthy provider.

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    Compare Rates and Fees

    Look beyond rates and examine fee structures, including closing costs, when shopping for a HELOC in North Carolina. Don't overlook the fine print; these details could save money long-term.

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    Assess Community Standing

    A lender's local reputation, such as community awards, speaks volumes. A positive local status in North Carolina could mean a lender focuses on customer satisfaction and reliable service.

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    Gauge Lender Flexibility

    Choose a lender who offers flexibility like interest-only payments or converting variable rates to a fixed-rate HELOC. Accessibility, like online prequalification, is also beneficial, demonstrating a lender's adaptability to your needs in North Carolina.

FAQ: HELOC Lenders and Rates in North Carolina

Navigating HELOC options in North Carolina might be difficult. We've answered some of the common questions, equipping you with the knowledge to select a lender that aligns with your financial circumstances.

What's a good HELOC rate in North Carolina? What are the best HELOC rates in North Carolina?
Which HELOC lender is best overall in North Carolina?
Can I still qualify for a HELOC in North Carolina if I have bad credit?
Which HELOC lender in North Carolina is best for large loans?
Can I use a HELOC to consolidate debt?
How can I ensure I find the right HELOC lender in North Carolina for me?

About Zachary Romeo, CBCA

Zachary Romeo, CBCA headshot

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.

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