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San Rafael homeowners have built serious equity. Marin County values have climbed steadily, leaving many owners sitting on six-figure gains they haven't touched.
A HELoan — a fixed-rate second mortgage — lets you pull that equity out as a lump sum. You keep your first mortgage intact and get a separate loan with its own fixed payment.
620+
Min Credit Score
Up to 85%
Max Combined LTV
Fixed
Rate Type
Lump Sum
Loan Structure
3–6 Weeks
Typical Close Time
Home Equity Loans (HELoans) in San Rafael
Most lenders want a combined loan-to-value ratio — your total mortgage debt vs. your home's value — at or below 85%. In San Rafael, that threshold is easy to clear for owners who've been in their homes a few years.
You'll also need a credit score of at least 620. Stronger scores, typically 700 and above, get better rates. Expect lenders to verify income, assets, and a full appraisal. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect home equity loans (heloans) eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in San Rafael.
San Rafael homeowners have built serious equity. Marin County values have climbed steadily, leaving many owners sitting on six-figure gains they haven't touched.
A HELoan — a fixed-rate second mortgage — lets you pull that equity out as a lump sum. You keep your first mortgage intact and get a separate loan with its own fixed payment.
Most lenders want a combined loan-to-value ratio — your total mortgage debt vs. your home's value — at or below 85%. In San Rafael, that threshold is easy to clear for owners who've been in their homes a few years.
Banks, credit unions, and wholesale lenders all offer HELoans — but their guidelines vary more than most borrowers expect. Some cap loan amounts, others have strict debt-to-income limits.
Working with a broker gives you access to 200+ wholesale lenders at once. That matters when you're trying to match loan size, rate, and term to your specific equity position.
The biggest mistake San Rafael homeowners make: assuming their current bank offers the best deal. Banks price HELoans for convenience, not competitiveness.
The second mistake is treating a HELoan and a HELOC as interchangeable. If you need a defined amount for a specific project — a remodel, debt payoff, a tuition bill — a HELoan's fixed rate is cleaner. HELOCs are better for ongoing access to funds.
A cash-out refinance replaces your first mortgage entirely. If your current rate is low, breaking it to pull equity is expensive. A HELoan leaves that rate alone.
A HELOC gives you a revolving line you draw from over time. Rates are usually variable. For a homeowner who knows exactly what they need — say, $120,000 for a kitchen gut — a HELoan's fixed payment is more predictable. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
San Rafael sits in one of the most equity-rich markets in California. High property values mean many owners qualify for larger loan amounts than they'd get in most other counties.
Marin properties can also appraise conservatively in some micro-pockets. A broker who knows how appraisals work in this market can flag that risk early and help you choose a lender with appraiser panels familiar with the area.
Most lenders allow up to 85% combined LTV. In San Rafael, high home values mean that often translates to large loan amounts.
No. A HELoan is a separate second mortgage. Your first mortgage rate and payment stay exactly as they are.
Typically 3 to 6 weeks. An appraisal is required, which adds time — schedule that early.
It may be if funds are used for home improvements. Talk to a tax advisor — rules depend on how you use the money.
Most lenders start at 620. Scores of 700 and above qualify for meaningfully better rates. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Yes, but income documentation is more involved. Expect lenders to review two years of tax returns and business financials.