How we research

Where questions come from

Topics come from the questions people type into search engines about this subject, gathered from free public autocomplete suggestions, then narrowed to the ones this site's focus can answer well.

Sources we rely on

Pages cite these primary sources, among others. Each guide lists the exact sources it used at the bottom of the page.

• CFPB: Home equity loans, cash-out refinances and other options similar to a HELOC
• CFPB: What is a home equity line of credit (HELOC)?
• CFPB: What is a Loan Estimate?
• CFPB: Loan Estimate explainer
• Fannie Mae Selling Guide B2-1.3-03: Cash-out refinance transactions
• Fannie Mae Selling Guide B3-4.1-01: Minimum reserve requirements
• FHFA: Conforming loan limit values

How a page is checked

1. Each rule is checked against the current version of its source document.
2. Plain-language wording is compared back to the source so meaning is not lost.
3. A page shows a new review date only after it has been rechecked.

Pages written this way

• Should I keep my first mortgage and add a second lien?
• Using a HELOC while keeping your first mortgage
• Home equity loan vs cash-out refinance
• When a cash-out refinance beats a second lien
• Jumbo cash-out refinance vs jumbo HELOC
• First and second liens explained
• HELOC draw period vs repayment period: what changes
• Refinancing your first mortgage when you have a HELOC

About the Home Equity vs. Cash-Out Guide blended rate check

The Home Equity vs. Cash-Out Guide blended rate check uses only what you type, works entirely in the browser and keeps nothing.