How a Home Equity Loan Works & Benefits

Are you surfing the web to find the finances for your home renovation or to cover unexpected expenses? Home equity loans can help you in a better way. This loan is designed to help you arrange funds for several financial projects or needs.

In the UAE, homeowners are using a home equity loan for various purposes, including buying a new property, remodifying a home, repaying debts, and more. Scroll down this article, and understand more about this loan type.

Top Home Loan Plans in UAE

Plan Name First Time Buyers
Minimum Salary (AED) AED 12,000
Maximum Amount (AED) 50,000,000
Fixed Rate 1.79%
Down payment 20%
Plan Name Standard Mortgage Loan
Minimum Salary (AED) AED 15,000
Maximum Amount (AED) 20,000,000
Fixed Rate NA
Down payment 20%
Plan Name Saadiq Home Finance
Minimum Salary (AED) AED 15,000
Maximum Amount (AED) 18,000,000
Fixed Rate 1.66%
Down payment 20%
Plan Name Home Loan For Expats
Minimum Salary (AED) AED 15,000
Maximum Amount (AED) 15,000,000
Fixed Rate 2.06%
Down payment 25%

What is a Home Equity Loan? 

A home equity loan, also known as an equity loan or second mortgage, is a type of loan through which you can borrow a large sum of money using the equity of your house as collateral. You can get this loan from financial institutions or banks on the appreciated value of your property.

It is helpful for homeowners in many ways, such as paying off the existing mortgage interest or making strategic investments. Typically, they have fixed interest rates and tenure, which means that you can plan your future finances accordingly.

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Pros and Cons of Home Equity Loan

We have mentioned the pros and cons of a home equity loan for your better understanding:

Pros of Home Equity Loan Cons of Home Equity Loan
  • Interest rates are low compared to other loan types
  • You can borrow a large amount. 
  • You can use the fund for a variety of purposes
  • Monthly EMIs and repayment term is fixed in home equity loans
  • You can increase the value of your property by using the funds for renovations 
  • The approval process is faster than the other loan types
  • Chances of losing your house if you fail to repay the loan amount 
  • Additional fees are associated with it, such as application costs, appraisal fees, and more
  • May adversely affects your credit Score as it is considered as a second mortgage 
  • The loan amount can be used for limited purposes as many banks in the UAE are providing home equity loans for home renovation purposes

Eligibility Criteria for Home Equity Loan

In the UAE, expats and nationals can take a home equity loan by meeting the eligibility criteria established by the banks.

UAE nationals have the advantage of typically borrowing a loan of up to 85% of the value of their property. On the other hand, this rule might be stricter for expats as they are only allowed to borrow a maximum of 80% of the property’s value.

Other factors also play a crucial role in determining your eligibility for a home equity loan, such as your credit score, existing liabilities, income, and more. With a good credit score and a stable income, you can easily take out an equity release loan.

🔔 Heads-Up: Don’t take the maximum amount of loan just because you are qualified for it — make a decision that aligns with your long-term goals!

How to Get a Home Equity Loan in the UAE?

Following a few simple steps, you can access a home equity loan in the UAE:

  • Check your eligibility before applying for a home equity loan. Your home equity should be higher than the liability you owe, and you should have a good credit score. 
  • You need to submit some basic documents, such as income proof, property ownership certificate/paper, and more. So, be ready with them. 
  • Research and compare the interest rates, tenure, and financing options by different lenders in the UAE. 
  • Choose one offering the best home equity loans with better terms and start making EMI payments on time. 

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How to Calculate Home Equity?

If you are wondering “how much home equity loan can I get,” the answer largely depends on your home equity. So, how would you calculate this?

It’s easy to calculate home equity as it’s the difference between the value of the property and your current liabilities.

Let’s understand this with an example:

The market value of your property is AED 2000,000. Let’s say the existing loan balance is AED 70,000. Then, the home equity will be calculated based on the formula:

  • Home Equity = Value of the Property- Existing Loan Balance
  • Home Equity = AED 2000,000- AED 70,000
  • Home Equity = AED 1,930,000

So, in this case, your home equity amount would be AED 1,930,000. You can apply for a home equity loan based on this value and utilise the funds for various financial needs. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a home equity loan and how does it work?

A home equity loan is a loan in which you take on the equity of your property as collateral. It works like the other loans, meaning you borrow a certain amount and then you need to repay the money in the form of monthly EMIs for a fixed year or term.

Q2. What is the difference between home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOC)?

The basic difference between home equity loans and home equity lines of credit is the interest rate. In home equity loans, the interest rate is usually fixed for the whole loan tenure. But in home equity lines of credit, it fluctuates over the tenure based on market conditions.

Q3. How to get a home equity loan with no mortgage?

You can get a home equity loan even if you have no mortgage. For this, you need to contact the lender, and they will guide you on how much amount you can borrow on what interest charges and terms.

Q4. Is equity release good for me?

Equity release is a cost-efficient option if you are about to renovate your home, need finances for business expansion, and more.

Q5. How much home equity loan can I get in the UAE?

It depends upon your nationality, type of lender, and the property’s value.

Q6. Is it safe to get a home equity loan?

Yes, home equity loans are beneficial for individuals looking to revamp their property or increase its value.

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