Tapping the equity in your home may well be the best way to lower your interest payments when financing a car. Both a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and a home equity loan often provide lower rates than traditional car loans because they are secured against the value of your home. The interest on home-equity credit is also usually tax deductible if you itemize it on your federal tax return. Consult a tax advisor about your particular situation.
Of the two choices, a HELOC often has the lowest initial interest rate but, because its rate is variable, it can leave you vulnerable to the possibility of increased payments should rates rise. It’s therefore often considered more suitable for car loans of 36 months or less. For loans over 36 months, a fixed-rate home equity loan that has a guaranteed rate for its entire term may be a better choice.
It’s important, however, before choosing to secure your vehicle loan against your home, to understand the risks involved with this type of financing. Because you are using your home as collateral, you must have the discipline to make all the necessary payments on time or you could end up in a position of having to sell your home.
Be careful of zero interest loans
Although no interest car loans sound attractive, they may not be your best bet, particularly if you’re giving up a substantial rebate in return. Let’s say you’re buying a car for $16,000 and can pay zero interest for 36 months through the dealer or receive a $2,000 rebate. The monthly payment on a $16,000 purchase at zero interest is $444.44. However, if you take the rebate and finance through a bank at 5 percent, your monthly payment comes to $419.59. You save $24.85 a month, or $894.60 over three years.
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