Home equity planning

Refinancing an existing HELOC: what to compare first

Compare the existing agreement with a new loan before assuming a refinance helps.

Stonehaven Lending · 2026-09-12

Guide overview
FocusA homeowner decision
ReviewLender requirements apply

Find the problem you want to solve

Is the issue an approaching repayment date, a different desired structure, or a request for additional funds? These are different goals. Start with the current balance, agreement dates, and payment terms so a broker can discuss the right question.

Compare the old and new obligations

Put current payoff, any closure charges, proposed fees, new term, and remaining balance on one sheet. A fresh draw period may also extend the time you carry debt. Compare both the expected monthly payment and the cost over the period you actually plan to keep the borrowing.

Keep servicing and new credit separate

Stonehaven can review a HELOC refinancing request, but does not become the servicer of your current account by receiving an inquiry. Contact the current lender for account questions or an upcoming payment you cannot manage. A new loan remains subject to approval.

Prepare the next conversation

Use the home equity planning worksheet to organize your assumptions. Leave anything you do not know blank for discussion. The worksheet does not check eligibility or obtain a lender offer. You can request a broker conversation when you are ready to review your estimated home value, mortgage balance, and requested amount. Do not send account numbers or financial documents through a public inquiry form.

Read the source guidance. Provider examples describe that provider only. This guide is educational. A home-secured loan puts the property at risk if repayment fails. Program availability, documentation, costs, and approval depend on the lender and your circumstances.

Editorial standards and corrections · Meet the team

Share your financing question for follow-up by text. An initial review is not approval.

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Review your HELOC options

Start with your estimated home value, mortgage balance, and the amount you want to request.

Request a HELOC review

This educational guide uses hypothetical examples and does not describe a completed transaction. These examples are not offers, rate quotes, or a promise that any similar transaction will be approved; every deal is subject to lender underwriting and program availability, which varies by state. Names, addresses, and identifying details are omitted or generalized. NMLS #1752355 · Equal Housing Opportunity.

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