HELOC and home equity loan rates Sunday, February 15, 2026: How to get your best rate offer

Core Insights - Interest rates for home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) and home equity loans are currently at one-year lows, providing an opportunity for homeowners to secure below-market rates if they shop around [1][2] Interest Rates Overview - The average HELOC rate is 7.23%, with a 52-week low of 7.19%. The national average for home equity loans is 7.44%, with a low of 7.38% recorded in early December 2025 [2] - Rates are based on applicants with a minimum credit score of 780 and a combined loan-to-value ratio (CLTV) of less than 70% [2] Home Equity Access - Homeowners with low primary mortgage rates may find it challenging to access their home's increasing value. HELOCs or home equity loans can provide a solution without sacrificing their low mortgage rates [3] - The Federal Reserve estimates that homeowners have approximately $34 trillion in equity locked in their homes, indicating a significant opportunity for accessing this equity through second mortgages like HELOCs or home equity loans [4] Rate Structure and Flexibility - Home equity interest rates differ from primary mortgage rates, typically based on an index rate plus a margin. For example, with a prime rate of 6.75% and a margin of 0.75%, the HELOC rate would be 7.50% [5] - Lenders have flexibility in pricing second mortgage products, making it beneficial for borrowers to compare offers based on credit score, debt levels, and credit line relative to home value [6] Loan Types and Features - HELOCs often come with introductory rates that may last for a limited time, after which rates become adjustable. In contrast, home equity loans (HELs) usually have fixed rates for the duration of the loan [6][7] - The best HELOC lenders offer low fees, fixed-rate options, and generous credit lines, allowing homeowners to utilize their equity as needed [8] Current Offers and Considerations - LendingTree currently offers a HELOC APR as low as 6.13% for a credit line of $150,000, but borrowers should be aware of the variable nature of HELOC rates [9] - Home equity loans may be easier to navigate due to their fixed rates and lump-sum disbursement, eliminating concerns about draw minimums [10] Market Conditions and Recommendations - The national average for HELOCs is 7.23% and 7.44% for home equity loans, with rates varying significantly based on lender and borrower creditworthiness [11] - For homeowners with low primary mortgage rates and substantial equity, now may be an optimal time to consider a HELOC or home equity loan for purposes such as home improvements [12]