Best HELOC Rates and Best HELOC Lenders in Rhode Island (September 2024)

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Updated: September 10, 2024

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The best home equity line of credit (HELOC) lender in Rhode Island is Lower, offering a valuable option for homeowners looking to leverage their home equity. With rates between 8.75% to 13.5% and loans ranging from $15,000 to $500,000, it caters to a wide array of borrowing needs. Available exclusively online, it requires a minimum credit score of 580, making it accessible to a broader audience. MoneyGeek recognized this lender after considering various elements beyond just the cost.

Rhode Island has 13 known HELOC lenders that MoneyGeek included in its research. Not every lender active in the state was part of this analysis, and homeowners could find more choices. Options such as Rhode Island Credit Union, Westerly Community Credit Union and Coastal1 Credit Union offer localized services that might suit individual homeowner needs.

A Summary of the Best HELOC Lenders in Rhode Island

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, among others.

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Our analysis was completed in September 2024 and includes lenders that do business in Rhode Island.

13Lenders Analyzed

    Best HELOC Lender Overall

  • 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 pick for HELOC lenders in Rhode Island, offering competitive features for homeowners. Lower presents an APR range of 8.75% to 13.5%, allowing a broad spectrum of borrowers to potentially secure financing. Loan amounts from $15,000 to $500,000 give flexibility, and the minimum credit score requirement of 580 welcomes a wider customer base. Plus, with no annual fee and a commitment to transparency, information is readily accessible. For Rhode Islanders, these features make tapping into home equity straightforward.

    Pros

    • Accepts low credit scores from 580
    • Personalized post-completion support
    • Minimum loan amount of $15,000

    Cons

    • No rate discounts offered
    • No fixed-rate conversion
    • Unclear repayment period length
    Lower

HELOC Rates in Rhode Island by Credit Score

Your HELOC APR in Rhode Island may fluctuate due to credit scores, LTV ratios and chosen repayment terms. Even with exemplary credit and an LTV ratio at or below 80%, lenders might offer varied rates. Review the table to observe how differing parameters impact your rates.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Credit Score:
Credit Score:680 - 740
LTV Ratio:
LTV Ratio:80% - 95%
HELOC (10 year)APR6.57%
HELOC (15 year)APR6.57%
HELOC (20 year)APR6.57%

Where does this data come from?

When searching for a HELOC in Rhode Island, comparing APRs from various lenders can save you money. Lower APRs mean less interest paid over time, leading to potential savings. Careful comparison ensures you get a deal that best suits your financial situation, for a smoother borrowing experience.

HELOC Calculator: Do You Qualify in Rhode Island?

Eligibility for a HELOC in Rhode Island depends on multiple factors, including your home equity and credit score. It means having both sufficient equity in your home and a credit score that meets lender requirements is key. The average credit score in Rhode Island is 722 according to Experian, so if you're near this range, you stand a good chance of securing a HELOC.

To get a clearer picture of your HELOC eligibility, use our HELOC calculator. By inputting different values, you can see how much you might be able to borrow. For instance, increasing your equity estimate could show a higher potential loan amount.

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 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 a top choice for Rhode Island homeowners seeking HELOCs with a cost-saving edge. With Aven, you access lower rates ranging from 7.99% to 15.49%, a perk for those conscious about their budget. Notably, Aven's product is a hybrid HELOC, acting like a credit card but securing your home's equity. This option could potentially save you money, thanks to no annual or origination fees and a lack of prepayment penalties. Furthermore, a 0.25% rate discount is available for using autopay, streamlining your payments and reducing your rate simultaneously.

    Pros

    • Earns you 2% unlimited cash back for purchases
    • Allows you to cash out directly to your bank
    • 0.25% rate reduction for autopay

    Cons

    • Line limit up to $250,000 only
    • One-time 2.5% cash-out fee
    • 10-day card delivery time
    Aven

How does MoneyGeek create this recommendation?


    Best HELOC Lender 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

    In Rhode Island, homeowners with less-than-perfect credit still have options. U.S. Bank provides a HELOC with a low minimum credit score of 660. With APRs ranging from 8.95% to 13.1%, the potential for a rate discount of 0.5% through autopay is on the table. This lender's product stands as a sensible choice, featuring no closing costs and the possibility of interest-only payments. Plus, with a line as low as $15,000, Rhode Islanders have a flexible starting point. U.S. Bank is accredited by the BBB, though it currently does not have a rating.

    Pros

    • Offers a 0.5% autopay discount
    • Prequalify online available
    • Fixed-rate option offered

    Cons

    • Closing in-person required
    • $75 annual fee charged
    • No financial hardship assistance
    U.S. Bank

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for those with bad credit?


    Best HELOC Lender 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 HELOC lender for Rhode Island homeowners seeking substantial loan amounts. With a HELOC, you can fund high-cost needs like home renovations or cover education expenses. Key features include a maximum loan amount of $1 million and a repayment period of 20 years after a 10-year draw period, offering a long horizon to manage borrowed funds. Moreover, it charges no annual fee, adding to your savings over time. Bank of America's offering includes competitive introductory rates, multiple discounts and no closing costs.

    Pros

    • Maximum loan amount of $1 million
    • No fees for application, annual and closing
    • Discounts available

    Cons

    • Closing must be in person
    • Undisclosed HELOC requirements
    • $450 early closure fee
    Bank of America

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for large loan amounts?


    Best HELOC Lender 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 Rhode Island for debt consolidation. A HELOC is an option to consolidate credit card and auto loan debt. Look for a lender with lower interests than your debts, quick fund access and a high loan limit. PNC offers a loan range of $10,000 to $1 million with a three-day fund access post-closing. With rates from 8.22% to 14.5% and the option to switch between fixed and variable rates, it fits these needs. Plus, PNC reimburses certain fees, adding to the savings for homeowners.

    Pros

    • Switch between variable and fixed rates
    • Borrow up to $1 million
    • Offers financial hardship assistance

    Cons

    • Charges a $50 annual fee
    • Does not disclose most information
    • Charges a late fee
    PNC Bank

How does MoneyGeek recommend lenders for debt consolidation?

How to Choose a HELOC Lender in Rhode Island

MoneyGeek has shared its top HELOC lenders for Rhode Island homeowners. Yet, if you’re looking to broaden your horizons, following these strategies will streamline your hunt for the right lender to fit your unique financial needs.

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    Clarify Your HELOC Purpose

    Understanding what you'll use the HELOC for can guide you to the right lender in Rhode Island. Whether for home renovations, debt consolidation or education expenses, pinpointing this helps focus your lender search. Ask lenders if they have specific terms for your intended use.

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    Check Lender Reputation

    Evaluate lenders with a check on the Better Business Bureau and the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation. These resources assess credibility and ensure lenders meet state regulations.

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    Compare Rates and Fees

    Shop around for favorable rates and review fee structures, including HELOC closing costs. Don’t just focus on interest rates; scrutinize all costs involved in securing a HELOC in Rhode Island.

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    Gauge Community Standing

    A lender's local reputation in Rhode Island, evidenced by community awards, reflects its service quality. Seek lenders well-regarded in your area for assurance of customer satisfaction.

    loanReview icon

    Assess Lender Flexibility

    Consider how a lender accommodates changing needs like switching from variable rates to a fixed-rate HELOC. Online prequalification and options for interest-only payments demonstrate flexibility.

FAQ: HELOC Lenders and Rates in Rhode Island

Navigating the HELOC landscape in Rhode Island can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. The answers to these frequently asked questions offer clear guidance, aiding borrowers in understanding their options and making informed decisions on the most suitable lender for their needs.

What's a good HELOC rate in Rhode Island? What are the best HELOC rates in Providence?

A good HELOC rate in Rhode Island is approximately 6.40%. These rates typically assume a Loan to Value (LTV) ratio of 80% or lower and a credit score between 680 to 740. Homeowners should note that rates may vary due to creditworthiness and choice of lender. The best HELOC rates in Providence usually mirror the best HELOC rates in Rhode Island.

Which HELOC lender is best overall in Rhode Island?

Lower is recognized as the best overall HELOC lender in Rhode Island, largely due to its competitive APR range from 8.75% to 13.5%, loan amounts of up to $500,000 and a minimum credit score as low as 580. These factors are attractive for homeowners searching for flexible borrowing options.

Can I still qualify for a HELOC in Rhode Island if I have bad credit?

Yes, you can qualify for a HELOC in Rhode Island even with bad credit. For instance, U.S. Bank offers HELOCs with a minimum credit score requirement of 660 and discounts for autopay despite an APR range that could go up to 13.1%.

Which HELOC lender in Rhode Island is best for large loans?

For large loans, Bank of America has been selected, with a range from $25,000 to $1 million and no annual fees, suitable for significant expenses like home renovation projects or major life events.

Can I use a HELOC to consolidate debt?

Homeowners considering debt consolidation should note that PNC Bank offers a HELOC with APRs from 8.22% to 14.5%, funds available within three days after closing and up to $1 million in loan amounts. Always consider HELOC pros and cons before you applying.

How can I ensure I find the right HELOC lender in Rhode Island for me?

Finding the right HELOC lender in Rhode Island for you involves understanding your intended use for the HELOC and knowing your financial health. Different priorities, such as lower rates, larger loan amounts or quicker access to funds, can influence which lender is the best match.

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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