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.
Taking equity out of your home can be risky because it involves borrowing against the value of your property. This means you are increasing your debt and potentially putting your home at risk if you are unable to repay the borrowed amount.
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.
Generally, you can borrow up to 80% of your home's value minus your remaining home debts, meaning you're not eligible for an HEA until you have at least 20% equity in your home. Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: Calculate what percentage of your monthly gross income goes toward your debt payments.