Unlike HELs and HELOCs, home equity agreements aren't loans. That means there are no monthly payments or interest charges..
A company provides you with a lump sum in exchange for partial ownership of your home, and/or a share of its future appreciation. You don't make monthly repayments of principal or interest; instead, you settle up when you sell the home or at the end of a multi-year agreement period (typically between 10 and 30 years).
Home equity sharing may also be wise if you don't want extra debt reflected on your credit profile. "These agreements allow homeowners to access their home equity without incurring additional debt," says Michael Crute, a real estate agent and operations strategist with Keller Williams in Atlanta.
The application process for a home equity line of credit can vary depending on the lender, but typically you will need to provide your current mortgage information, as well as your credit score and income. The application process may also require you to submit proof of current debt payments and assets.