Best HELOC Rates and Best HELOC Lenders in Washington (2024)

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Updated: July 9, 2024

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The best home equity line of credit (HELOC) lender in Washington is Lower. It provides loans from $15,000 to $500,000 with an APR between 8.75% and 13.5%, suitable for various home projects or debt consolidation needs. Lower requires a credit score of at least 580 and operates exclusively online, with no annual fees or discounts. MoneyGeek took into account a range of factors beyond cost to pick the top lender.

MoneyGeek's analysis covered 14 HELOC lenders. While other lenders exist in Washington, not all were in this review. Sound Credit Union, Seattle Credit Union and Washington State Employees Credit Union (WSECU) are among local options with unique benefits for residents.

A Summary of the Best HELOC Lenders in Washington

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 July 2024 and includes lenders that do business in Washington.

14Lenders 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 best HELOC lender for homeowners in Washington. With Lower, you get an APR range of 8.75% to 13.5% and can access loan amounts from $15,000 to $500,000. A minimum credit score of 580 makes it accessible to a wider range of borrowers. The lack of annual fees and endorsement from the BBB with an A+ rating demonstrates transparency and reliability. This can suit a homeowner looking to leverage their home's equity without the stress of steep requirements or hidden costs.

    Pros

    • A+ rating from the BBB
    • Provides personalized support
    • No annual fee

    Cons

    • No rate discounts offered
    • Does not offer financial hardship assistance
    • Fixed-rate HELOC conversion not available
    Lower

HELOC Rates in Washington by Credit Score

If you're a homeowner in Washington eyeing a HELOC, your APR isn't just about your credit score or a sub-80% LTV ratio. Different lenders offer varied rates based on repayment terms. Use the provided table to see how your rate shifts with different parameters.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Credit Score:
Credit Score:680 - 740
LTV Ratio:
LTV Ratio:80% - 95%
HELOC (10 year)APR7.55%
HELOC (15 year)APR7.55%
HELOC (20 year)APR7.55%

Where does this data come from?

Comparing APRs from various HELOC lenders in Washington can lead to significant savings over time. Lower APRs mean less interest paid, making borrowing more affordable. Differences in rates impact monthly payments and the total cost of borrowing, shaping your financial health. Take the time to shop around to find a rate that aligns with your budget needs.

HELOC Calculator: Do You Qualify in Washington?

Homeowners in Washington can tap into their home equity if it's high, based on TransUnion's report. If your home has appreciated in value, you may be able to borrow more through a HELOC. Meanwhile, the average credit score in the state is 735, according to Experian. Being at or above this mark sets you up nicely for HELOC approval.

Eligibility for a HELOC in Washington hinges on a mix of factors, with equity and credit score being key. However, it's not just these two considerations. Check your standing using the HELOC calculator; it allows exploration of different eligibility scenarios. This simple tool is a helpful first step when hunting for the right HELOC in Washington.

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 the best HELOC lender in Washington for those seeking cost savings. It stands out with competitive APRs that range from 7.99% to 15.49%, coupled with no annual fees or origination charges. Rate reductions like a 0.25% discount for setting up autopay add to the savings. Aven’s product acts like a credit card backed by your home's equity and offers 2% unlimited cashback. Homeowners in Washington can enjoy these financial benefits without worrying about prepayment penalties or early closure fees, optimizing for a wallet-friendly solution in leveraging home equity.

    Pros

    • Credit card backed by home's equity
    • Unlimited 2% cash back on purchases
    • 0.25% autopay rate reduction

    Cons

    • Line limit up to $250,000
    • 2.5% fee for bank transfers
    • Card delivery takes 10 days
    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

    U.S. Bank is the best HELOC lender for Washington homeowners with bad credit. A low credit score doesn't bar you from a home equity line of credit; it can impact your terms. U.S. Bank's HELOC starts with a minimum credit score of 660 and offers a maximum APR of 13.1%. You'll find a 0.5% rate discount with autopay. This can make borrowing more affordable. U.S. Bank is accredited by the BBB, though currently does not have a rating.

    Pros

    • Allows for interest-only payments
    • Fixed-rate option available
    • Only $15,000 minimum line amount

    Cons

    • Closing must be done in person
    • Early closure fee up to $500
    • $75 annual fee
    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 pick for large HELOCs in Washington. Homeowners often use HELOCs for funding renovations or education costs efficiently. Bank of America's product offers a maximum loan amount of $1 million, which accommodates substantial borrowing needs. With a 10-year draw period and a 20-year repayment term, homeowners receive ample time to repay the borrowed funds. Unlike some lenders, it does not charge annual fees, reducing the overall cost of the loan.

    Pros

    • No application or annual fees
    • Offers multiple discounts
    • Assistance during financial hardship

    Cons

    • Charges a $450 early closure fee
    • Minimum $25,000 loan for online apps
    • In-person closing required
    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

    In Washington, if you're looking to blend your high-interest debts, such as credit card bills and personal loans, into one manageable payment, PNC Bank is the go-to HELOC lender. It trumps others with competitive rates ranging from 8.22% to 14.5%. The bank shines with a quick turnaround, delivering access to funds within just three days of closing. Notably, PNC Bank endorses flexibility through features like the ability to toggle between fixed and variable interest rates and throws in a reduction of 0.25% off your rate for autopay enrollments from a PNC checking account.

    Pros

    • Offers variable and fixed rate flexibility
    • Autopay discounts with a PNC checking account
    • Online application tracking and document upload

    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 Washington

MoneyGeek has spotlighted top HELOC lenders in Washington tailored for diverse needs. The following strategies will streamline the process of selecting a lender that matches your specific scenario in the Evergreen State.

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    Define Your HELOC Purpose

    Knowing why you need a HELOC helps find a lender in Washington with suitable terms. For home renovations, some may offer better rates, while debt consolidation might get different terms.

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    Check Lender Reputation

    Always review lenders through the Better Business Bureau and Washington Department of Financial Institutions. High ratings often mean reliable service.

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    Compare Rates and Fees

    Don't just look at interest rates. Evaluate all loan features, including closing costs. This ensures a HELOC that fits your financial plan.

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    Assess Community Reputation

    A lender's local standing, such as awards for service, can be a reliable indicator. Choose one with a strong community reputation in Washington.

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    Consider Lender Flexibility

    Lenders that offer online prequalification or the option to convert variable rates to a fixed-rate HELOC show adaptability to your needs.

FAQ: HELOC Lenders and Rates in Washington

Navigating the nuances of HELOCs can seem daunting. The answers to these frequently asked questions arm you with the knowledge to confidently select a HELOC lender in Washington, aligning your financial goals with the ideal borrowing terms.

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

Sources

Better Business Bureau. "Get Consumer Help." Accessed July 7, 2024.

Experian. "What Is the Average Credit Score in the US?." Accessed July 7, 2024.

Washington Department of Financial Institutions. "Verify a License with DFI." Accessed July 7, 2024.

TransUnion. "Home Equity Trends Report Q3 2023." Accessed July 7, 2024.

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