Published May 12, 2025

Custom-Built Homes and HELOCs: How to Access Your Equity Efficiently

Executive Vice President/Head of Marketing

Built Your Dream Home? Now Make It Work for You

A custom-built home is more than just a personal sanctuary—it’s often one of your largest financial assets. And with appreciation, upgrades, and significant down payments, it can also hold untapped equity.

But how do you access that equity without refinancing your low-rate mortgage or taking on a high-interest personal loan?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) gives custom home owners a fast, flexible way to unlock liquidity—without disrupting your carefully built structure or financial plan.

Access cash within days

Tap into your home’s potential in minutes. Start our streamlined digital application to discover if a HELOC is right for you.

Why Custom-Built Homes Often Hold More Equity

Custom homes tend to:

This combination often results in substantial equity—even in the first few years of ownership.

HELOCs: A Smarter Way to Tap Custom Home Equity

A HELOC allows you to:

Unlike cash-out refinances, which replace your entire loan, a HELOC adds a second lien—preserving your original terms and flexibility.

Smart Uses of HELOCs for Custom Homeowners

1. Phase 2 Projects

Finish that detached garage, pool, guesthouse, or ADU now that the main build is complete.

2. Luxury Upgrades or Additions

Upgrade to solar, smart home systems, outdoor kitchens, or custom landscaping.

3. Bridge to Investment

Use your home’s equity to fund real estate or business investments—then repay once liquidity arrives.

4. Emergency Liquidity

Keep a HELOC open as a safety net—ready for medical, family, or unexpected home needs.

Key Benefits for Custom Homeowners

BenefitWhy It Matters
Preserve Low Mortgage RateAvoid replacing a 3% loan with 7%+ refinance
Draw Only What You NeedIdeal for phased upgrades or long-term projects
Faster Access Than RefinanceHELOCs fund faster—perfect for time-sensitive goals
No Prepayment PenaltyPay off early or repay in chunks at your pace
Keep Control of Design & FinancingNo need to deal with new appraisals, underwriters, or loan resets

FAQs About HELOCs and Custom-Built Properties

Can I get a HELOC even if my custom home was just built recently?

Yes—if you have sufficient equity (typically at least 15–20%), you may qualify. HomeEQ uses soft credit checks and fast appraisals.

Can I use a HELOC from HomeEQ on a custom home?

Yes—if it’s your primary residence, HomeEQ offers fully digital HELOCs with flexible use of funds.

Is interest tax-deductible on home upgrades?

If HELOC funds are used to “buy, build, or substantially improve” the home securing the loan, the interest may be deductible. Confirm with a CPA.

Will a HELOC affect my mortgage?

No. It’s a separate credit line and does not replace your primary mortgage.

Real Example: Custom Homeowner, Custom Financing

Scenario:
Arjun recently finished a $2.2M custom build in Colorado. He wants to add a detached home office and install a smart energy system—budgeted at $150K.

Option 1: Cash-Out Refinance

Option 2: HomeEQ HELOC

Result: Arjun completes his upgrades, keeps his low-rate mortgage, and maintains flexibility.

Make Your Custom Home Work for You

Your home was built to fit your life—now let it support your goals. With a HomeEQ HELOC, you can access equity quickly and flexibly, all through a seamless digital experience.

👉 Check Your HELOC Rate in Minutes
No credit impact. No bank visits. Just smart access to your custom-built equity.

💡 Ready to unlock capital from your home without selling a thing?
Explore your options with HomeEQ’s digital HELOC tool — fast, flexible, and fully online.

Check Your Rate or Learn More


Further Reading

Unlock your home’s potential

Access cash from your home within days. Try our streamlined digital application to discover if a HELOC is the key to your financial success. Get started to see your personalized offer.
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