A Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loan is often called a second mortgage

Unlike a HELOC, it doesn’t act like a credit card.

Instead, you get all the money up front and pay it back in regular monthly payments over a set time.

Here’s how it works:

1. You Borrow a Lump Sum

With a fixed-rate home equity loan, the lender gives you the entire amount you’re approved for right away.

Example: If you qualify for a $40,000 loan, you get all $40,000 up front.

2. Fixed Payments

Your monthly payment stays the same every month. This makes it easy to budget because there are no surprises.

Payment includes both principal (the amount you borrowed) and interest (the cost of borrowing).

3. Fixed Interest Rate

The interest rate is locked in when you take out the loan. It won’t change, no matter what happens in the market.

4. Typical Term Lengths

Most fixed-rate home equity loans are repaid over 5 to 15 years, depending on the lender and loan size.

5. When a Fixed-Rate Loan Makes Sense

• You need a large lump sum for one project or expense (like debt consolidation or home improvements).
• You want predictable payments that won’t change.
• You prefer the stability of a fixed rate instead of the flexibility of a HELOC.

Tip from Smart with Debt: A fixed-rate home equity loan is usually best if you know exactly how much money you need up front and want steady, reliable payments.