A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, can be a great way to tap into your home equity and use it for almost any purpose. For example, you can use the loan proceeds to help consolidate high-interest debt or renovate your home.
Whatever the reason, shopping around for HELOCs in Montana will help you find the best rates and terms for your financial profile. To help, look at the following local and online HELOC lenders in Montana to find one that suits your needs.
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Reviews of the best online HELOCs in Montana
One of the main benefits of online lenders compared to local lenders in Montana is that they may be more convenient. Applicants may be able to submit their application and paperwork online, see and compare quotes with other online lenders, and even sign HELOC closing documents online.
Though it may not always be the case, you may be able to receive funding quickly with online lenders. Figure, for example, offers funding as fast as within five days, helping you get the money you need for your goals.
Consider our list of the best online Montana HELOC lenders to see what you may qualify for.
Figure
Why we picked it
Figure stands out for its competitive fixed interest rates, which provide stability by eliminating the uncertainty of fluctuating payments.
The process is highly streamlined, requiring no in-person appraisal, and offers the flexibility to redraw up to 100% of the funds. Funding can be available in as few as five days, making it a fast and efficient option.
Additionally, you can check your rate without affecting your credit score, which adds an extra layer of convenience and transparency.
- Fixed interest rates
- No in-person appraisal is needed
- Option to redraw up to 100% of funds
- Funding can be available in as few as 5 days
- Check your rate without affecting your credit score
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | 6.55% – 15.54% |
| Loan amounts | $15,000 – $400,000 |
| Draw period | 5 years |
| Repayment term | 5, 10, 15, or 30 years |
| Funding time | As few as 5 days |
| Properties | Primary home, second home, or investment property |
| Credit score | 640 |
Bethpage FCU
Why we picked it
Bethpage is ideal for those looking for large HELOCs with minimal fees. It offers no application, origination, or appraisal fees, and qualified borrowers can benefit from a 12-month fixed introductory rate and $0 closing costs.
Converting part of your HELOC to a fixed-rate option adds flexibility and financial stability.
- No application, origination, or appraisal fees
- Convert part of your HELOC to a fixed-rate option
- 12-month fixed introductory rate for qualified borrowers
- $0 closing costs
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | 7.24% for 12 months, then variable. |
| Loan amounts | $10,000 – $1 million |
| Draw period | 10 years |
| Repayment term | 5, 10, or 20 years |
| Funding time | 36 – 70 days, on average |
| Properties | Primary homes, second homes, or condos |
| Credit score | 670 |
LendingTree
Why we picked it
LendingTree excels as a marketplace, providing access to multiple lenders. This allows comprehensive comparison tools to find competitive rates and customizable loan options.
LendingTree’s extensive network of lenders ensures borrowers can access a wide range of HELOC products, making it easier to find a loan that meets specific needs and preferences.
- Access to multiple lenders
- Comprehensive comparison tools
- Competitive rates
- Customizable loan options
Loan details
| Rates (APR) | Starting at 6.24% |
| Loan amounts | $10,000 – $2 million |
| Draw period | 2 – 20 years |
| Repayment term | 5 – 30 years |
| Funding time | Varies |
| Properties | Varies |
| Credit score | Varies, 620 advisable |
Local HELOCs in Montana
HELOC lenders local to Montana or your immediate area can offer a more personalized process than online lenders. For one, many lenders in your local area may have a more vested interest in helping out residents. Those who prefer in-person service may like that they can do so at their local bank or credit union.
When choosing between local Montana HELOC lenders, consider factors such as rates, terms, and the level of customer support you may receive. Since some or all of the application process may take place offline, you’ll want a lender who will walk you through it and answer any questions you may have.
Once you receive a quote from multiple lenders, take the time to understand the loan breakdown, including the rate you’ll pay, the length of your draw period, and when you’ll need to start repaying the entire loan.
Understanding your HELOC inside out will help you with borrower responsibilities, such as making on-time payments and knowing the maximum amount you can take out.
What’s the difference between online and local HELOCs in Montana?
The main difference between local and online lenders is the amount of information you can access online and how you can apply for a HELOC. Since online lenders tend not to have physical branches, you’ll need to complete tasks like getting prequalified and signing closing documents online.
Local lenders may not have the digital advantages online ones do, but you may be able to receive more personalized service and have someone walk you through your loan options.
Many, like Three Rivers Bank of Montana, offer other financial products, such as bank and investment accounts. This allows you to build a relationship with a local bank and conveniently do all your financial transactions in one place.
Online lenders may be best suited for those who are fine with handling paperwork independently and want the convenience of going through the process even outside of business hours. Local lenders may be the better choice for those who want to speak to someone in person and may want a bit more hand-holding throughout the loan process.
How do Montana HELOC rates compare to other states?
According to the Wall Street Journal, the average national HELOC rate is 9.31% as of January 2024. Montana HELOC rates appear below the national average, with online lenders offering APRs starting at 6.24% and local lenders offering APRs as low as 4.24%.
That being said, the rate you qualify for may be higher or lower than the national average. Lenders tend to offer rates based on your financial and credit profile.
Still, you may be able to score a competitive rate, considering many online lenders like Figure are available in Montana. Local lenders may also be willing to help you find rates and terms that can help you save thousands of dollars or more in loan costs.
According to Zillow, housing prices went up by 4% over the past year, and the average home price is $470,917. Homeowners in this state may be able to tap into their home equity to help achieve their various financial goals.
How to get the best HELOC rates in Montana
Lenders in Montana consider several factors when determining whether to approve you for a HELOC and at what rate. These include your home equity, credit history, and debt-to-income ratio.
To get the best HELOC rates in Montana, aim to meet the requirements lenders seek in borrowers.
Available home equity
Your home equity is the amount or percentage of your home you own. Lenders want to see that you have enough home equity — typically, your line of credit is based on this amount. In most cases, lenders only offer you a HELOC if you own at least 10% to 20% of your home. Plus, you may only be able to borrow up to 80% of your available equity.
Good credit history
Lenders want to know that you’ll be able to repay the amount you borrow. They assess your credit behavior by looking at your credit history and credit score. The higher your credit score, the more likely you’ll qualify for the most competitive rates.
Low debt-to-income ratio
Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) measures the percentage of your gross income that goes towards loan payments. The higher the percentage, the more of your income goes towards debt and could signal to lenders you may find it hard to afford a new loan.
Ideally, you’ll have a low DTI to get the lowest rates—you can do so by paying down existing debts before applying for a HELOC.
Even if you can meet all the above criteria, shop around to help ensure you get the best rate. Different lenders may offer you different HELOC rates and terms, so being able to look through all your options will help you find the right fit.
Are there any Montana-specific requirements or regulations?
According to our research, there don’t seem to be any Montana-specific laws or regulations that may affect HELOC rates or terms. Borrowers do have legal protections within the Montana Consumer Protection Act (MCPA), which includes mandates preventing deceptive and misleading practices.
Lenders must also follow regulations for home equity plans stipulated by federal laws. For example, lenders are required by law to provide disclosures and documents clearly stating HELOC terms and rates. Lenders are also required to state what happens if you cannot pay back your loan.
HELOC lenders in Montana may have their own requirements for their applicants. For example, some lenders may require that you have homeowners insurance or that your home is in good condition. Check when speaking with multiple lenders to see what you need to be eligible for a HELOC.
FAQ
What credit score do you need for a Montana HELOC?
The minimum credit score required for a HELOC in Montana varies by lender. Most lenders prefer a minimum credit score of around 620 to 640, but some lenders, such as Lower, may approve applicants with scores as low as 580. A higher credit score can help you secure better interest rates and terms.
What are the typical fees for a Montana HELOC?
The typical fees for a HELOC in Montana can include application fees, origination fees, appraisal fees, and closing costs. These fees vary by lender but usually fall between 2% to 5% of the total loan amount. Some lenders may offer promotions with reduced or waived fees, so it’s essential to compare different offers to find the best deal.
Are there any special programs or incentives for Montana HELOCs?
While Montana does not have state-specific HELOC programs, many lenders offer special incentives such as introductory interest rates, waived fees, or flexible draw and repayment terms.
For instance, some lenders provide rate discounts when setting up autopay or may offer no closing costs under certain conditions. Shopping around and comparing different lenders can help you find the best available incentives and programs.
How we picked the best Montana HELOCs
Since 2018, LendEDU has evaluated home equity companies to help readers find the best home equity loans and HELOCs. Our latest analysis reviewed 850 data points from 34 lenders and financial institutions, with 25 data points collected from each. This information is gathered from company websites, online applications, public disclosures, customer reviews, and direct communication with company representatives.
These star ratings help us determine which companies are best for different situations. We don’t believe two companies can be the best for the same purpose, so we only show each best-for designation once.
Recap of Montana HELOC rates and lenders
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