If you default on home equity loans, the consequences can be severe.
Maintain your financial health and homeownership with the help of this blog. We discuss the consequences and reveal 6 tips to avoid defaulting on your loan.
2 main consequences of Defaulting on Home Equity Loans
1. Collection Agency Involvement: When borrowers default on their home loans, lenders often sell the debt to a debt collection agency.
These agencies will attempt to recover the outstanding balance through persistent calls, demand letters, and possibly sending collectors to your home. This process can be stressful and damaging to your credit score.
2. Foreclosure: In more severe cases, the lender may initiate foreclosure proceedings to recover the money lent. Foreclosure means the lender can sell your home to recoup their losses. The primary mortgage lender takes priority over the home lender during a foreclosure sale.
If the primary lender holds the certificate of title, they are entitled to the proceeds first. However, depending on the completion status and holder of the certificate of title, refinancing complications can affect which lender gets paid first.
Bad credit
6 Tips to Avoid Defaulting on Your Home Equity Loan
1. Communicate with Your Lender:
Avoiding your lender’s calls or ignoring their letters will not improve your situation. However, being transparent about your financial difficulties can encourage them to assist you.
If you’re struggling with payments, contact your lender immediately. Explain your financial situation and express your willingness to find a solution. They understand that working with you increases the likelihood of recovering their money
They may offer to modify the loan terms, adjust interest rates, or restructure your repayment plan. This can help to make the loan more affordable so you can avoid defaulting on your home equity loan.
2. Explore Foreclosure Alternatives:
If you’re struggling with payments, you could explore alternative options to provide temporary relief and prevent foreclosure.
It is worth noting that you should only do this if you lack funds due to a short-term cash flow issue. If you can’t afford repayments full stop because your circumstances have changed or you have racked up an uncontrollable amount of debt, then taking out another loan will only add to this financial burden.
Alternative forms of finance that might be suitable to prevent foreclosure include:
- Mortgage Arrears loan
- Bad Credit Home Loans
- Investment Property loan
- Mezzanine Financing
- Bridging Loans
3. Consider Debt Consolidation:
If multiple debts overwhelm you, consolidating them into one low-rate loan with manageable monthly payments can help you regain control of your finances.
4. Refinance Your Mortgage:
Refinancing can lower your monthly payments and interest rate, making staying current on your loan easier. However, carefully consider the terms, as extending the loan term can increase the total cost over time.
5. Consult a Financial Advisor:
A financial advisor can provide valuable guidance on managing your finances and exploring potential solutions. They can help you create a feasible financial plan to navigate through tough times.
6. Resell and Downsize:
While drastic, selling your home and downsizing can be a practical solution. Use the proceeds to pay your mortgage and secure a smaller, more affordable living arrangement. This option can alleviate financial pressure and prevent foreclosure.
Don’t Default On Your Home Equity Loan
Contact Australian Lending Centre today to learn more about your options and find a suitable financial solution available to you.