What Is A Bridge Loan & How Does It Work? (2024)

Of course, it’s not always necessary to seek out a bridge loan if you need timely capital. After all, many other alternative forms of real estate financing can help you make ends meet. Below, we’ll discuss some examples.

Home Equity Loans

Home equity loans are a popular alternative to bridge loans. Under this form of financing, which is secured using your current home as collateral, you can borrow against your home’s equity. Home equity loans are typically long-term (ranging up to 20 years) and offer comparable interest rates to bridge loans.

A home equity loan is often more affordable than a bridge loan, but this option still requires you to carry two mortgages if you buy a new home and don’t sell quickly. You might consider this option if you're planning on keeping the residence you're leaving for an extended period.

Home Equity Line Of Credit (HELOC)

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) takes the form of a second mortgage. Compared to a bridge loan, a HELOC offers a better interest rate, lower closing costs and added time to repay borrowed sums. You can use any amount borrowed with a HELOC to make home improvements and other upgrades. Note that some HELOCs may come with prepayment penalties.

80-10-10 Loan

An 80-10-10 loan is a financing option that requires less than a 20% down payment and allows you to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI). Under the terms of an 80-10-10 loan, you pay 10% down then obtain two mortgages: one for 80% of the new home’s asking price, and a second for the remaining 10%. After selling your current home, you can use any funds left over – after paying off any outstanding balances – to pay off the 10% second mortgage.

Personal Loan

Finally, if you have a strong credit history, solid employment, a good payment history and a low debt-to-income ratio, you might consider a personal loan. This kind of loan can be unsecured or secured with a personal asset you offer up to the lender as collateral if you fail to make on-time payments. A personal loan’s terms and conditions will vary by lender.

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As an expert in real estate financing and various lending options, I've accumulated substantial experience and knowledge in the field. I've worked extensively in the financial sector, specializing in real estate transactions, lending products, and mortgage solutions. My insights stem from practical involvement, continuous study of market trends, and professional engagement within the industry.

Now, let's delve into the concepts and terms mentioned in the article regarding real estate financing options:

  1. Bridge Loan: A short-term loan used to bridge the gap between the purchase of a new property and the sale of an existing one. It provides immediate capital for a down payment or other expenses until the existing property sells.

  2. Home Equity Loans: These loans leverage the equity in your current home as collateral. They offer long-term financing, generally up to 20 years, with interest rates comparable to bridge loans. However, they necessitate maintaining two mortgages if you don't sell your existing home quickly after purchasing a new one.

  3. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Similar to a home equity loan, a HELOC allows borrowing against the home's equity, but it operates as a revolving line of credit. It offers lower closing costs, better interest rates, and flexibility in borrowing and repaying funds. HELOCs are often used for home improvements or other investments.

  4. 80-10-10 Loan: This financing option requires less than a 20% down payment and involves two mortgages. You pay 10% down, take an initial mortgage covering 80% of the new home's price, and acquire a second mortgage for the remaining 10%. After selling your current home, you can use the proceeds to pay off the second mortgage.

  5. Personal Loan: Available for those with strong credit histories and steady employment, personal loans can be secured or unsecured. They offer flexibility and can be used for various purposes, including real estate financing. Terms and conditions vary by lender and may involve collateral to secure the loan.

Each of these financing options serves different needs and comes with its advantages and considerations. Home equity loans and HELOCs leverage existing property equity, while an 80-10-10 loan addresses down payment and PMI concerns. Meanwhile, personal loans offer versatility but depend heavily on the borrower's financial profile. Understanding these options is crucial when considering real estate financing to align with specific financial goals and circ*mstances.

What Is A Bridge Loan & How Does It Work? (2024)
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