Home Equity Lending Market Outlook, 2029

The Home Equity Lending industry has been a significant part of the financial landscape for decades, providing homeowners with the opportunity to leverage their property's value for various purposes. Home equity is the difference between the current market value of a home and the outstanding balance of any mortgages or loans secured by the property.

This equity can be tapped into through home equity loans, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), or cash-out refinances. Home equity lending involves homeowners borrowing against the equity they have built up in their properties. This type of borrowing is commonly used for major expenses such as home renovations, medical bills, education costs, or debt consolidation.

Home equity loans, also known as second mortgages, allow homeowners to access funds based on the current market value of their property. Recent data indicates a substantial increase in the amount of home equity available for lending, with U.S. homeowners experiencing significant equity growth. This trend has led to a surge in home equity lending products, offering opportunities for mortgage lenders to expand their market share and profitability. However, despite the potential benefits, lenders have been hesitant to fully embrace home equity lending due to various challenges.

To ensure transparency and consumer protection in the Home Equity Lending industry, regulations such as the Home Equity Loans Consumer Protection Act (HELCPA) have been enacted. These regulations aim to regulate the disclosure and advertising practices of lenders, providing borrowers with essential information about the risks and terms associated with home equity loans. Loans provided by the global banking industry are observing a continuous increase over the years resulting in an increase in demand for collateral as a risk mitigation strategy by the banks.

United States, Canada, Russia, China, and Australia had emerged as countries post covid with the largest increase in y-o-y housing prices leading to an increase in loan value secured through Home Equity lending. With an increase in interest rate by monetary authorities to curb the inflation home equity lending has observed an increase with a comparatively higher price rise of housing markets.

According to the research report, the market is anticipated to cross USD 35 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 29.78 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 3.58% CAGR by 2024-29. The home equity lending industry has evolved significantly over the years, with changes in regulations, economic conditions, and consumer preferences shaping its trajectory. In the United States, the industry's growth was initially spurred by the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which made home equity loans more attractive by allowing borrowers to deduct the interest from their taxes. Economic conditions, such as fluctuations in housing prices and interest rates, can profoundly impact the home equity lending market.

For instance, a booming real estate market increase homeowners' equity positions, spurring demand for home equity products. Conversely, economic downturns or housing market corrections dampen enthusiasm for such borrowing. Regulatory changes play a crucial role in shaping the home equity lending industry. In the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis, stricter lending standards and enhanced consumer protections were implemented to prevent the irresponsible lending practices that contributed to the housing market collapse. These regulations, including the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, have imposed stricter requirements on lenders and enhanced disclosure obligations for borrowers.

Advancements in technology have revolutionized the way home equity lending operates. Online platforms and digital tools have streamlined the application and approval process, making it faster and more convenient for borrowers to access funds. Additionally, data analytics and artificial intelligence have enabled lenders to assess credit risk more accurately and offer personalized loan terms tailored to individual borrowers' needs.

Market Drivers

• Access to Credit: Home equity lending serves as a valuable source of credit for individuals who may face challenges accessing traditional unsecured loans or credit cards. Because home equity loans are secured by the borrower's property, lenders may be more willing to extend credit even to those with lower credit scores or irregular income. This accessibility can empower borrowers to meet various financial needs, such as debt consolidation, major purchases, or funding education expenses.
• Tax Advantages: In certain jurisdictions, homeowners may benefit from tax deductions on the interest paid on home equity loans or lines of credit, particularly if the funds are used for home improvements that increase the property's value. This tax advantage can effectively lower the cost of borrowing, making home equity financing a more attractive option for eligible borrowers. Homeowners are often encouraged to consult with tax professionals to understand the specific tax implications of using home equity for various purposes.

Market Challenges

• Volatility in Property Markets: While rising property values can enhance homeowners' equity positions, fluctuations in property markets can pose challenges for both borrowers and lenders. Rapid changes in property values can affect the accuracy of property valuations, potentially impacting loan-to-value ratios and lending decisions. Moreover, declining property values can expose borrowers to the risk of negative equity, wherein the outstanding loan balance exceeds the property's current market value. Lenders must closely monitor market trends and adjust lending practices accordingly to mitigate these risks.
• Risk of Negative Equity: Borrowing against home equity entails the risk of negative equity, particularly in scenarios where property values decline or when borrowers leverage a significant portion of their equity. Negative equity can leave homeowners vulnerable, limiting their options for refinancing, selling, or accessing additional credit. Lenders must assess borrowers' financial positions and collateral values prudently to mitigate the likelihood of negative equity situations. Additionally, borrowers should exercise caution when tapping into their home equity and avoid overleveraging themselves to minimize the risk of negative equity.

Market Trends

• Customized Products and Flexibility: To meet the diverse needs of borrowers, lenders are offering increasingly customized home equity products with flexible features and terms. These products may include options such as adjustable repayment schedules, variable interest rates, and the ability to choose between lump-sum loans and lines of credit. By tailoring offerings to individual preferences and financial circumstances, lenders can enhance the appeal of equity lending and better serve their customer base.
• Integration with Fintech: The rise of financial technology (fintech) is reshaping the home equity lending landscape, with companies leveraging digital innovations to streamline the borrowing process and enhance customer experiences. Fintech solutions in home equity lending often incorporate online applications, automated underwriting processes, and real-time access to loan information. By harnessing technology, fintech firms aim to simplify the lending experience, expedite loan approvals, and provide borrowers with greater transparency and control over their home equity products. This integration of fintech elements is driving efficiency gains and fostering competition within the home equity lending market.

Fixed-rate loans are leading in the home equity lending market due to their stability and predictability, providing borrowers with assurance against interest rate fluctuations.

Fixed-rate loans are leading in the home equity lending market primarily due to their stability and predictability. Unlike variable-rate loans, where the interest rate can fluctuate with market conditions, fixed-rate loans offer borrowers the assurance of a consistent interest rate for the entire duration of the loan. This stability is highly valued by borrowers because it provides them with a sense of security and allows for better financial planning. With a fixed-rate loan, borrowers know exactly what their monthly mortgage payments will be throughout the life of the loan, making budgeting easier and more reliable.

In a variable-rate loan, borrowers are vulnerable to increases in interest rates, which can lead to higher monthly payments and financial strain. In contrast, fixed-rate loans shield borrowers from such fluctuations, offering peace of mind and financial stability. This protection becomes especially crucial during times of economic uncertainty or when interest rates are expected to rise. Moreover, fixed-rate loans are favored by borrowers who prioritize long-term financial planning and prefer to avoid the risk associated with variable-rate loans.

By locking in a fixed interest rate, borrowers can accurately forecast their housing expenses over the duration of the loan, making it easier to manage their finances and avoid unexpected financial burdens. Fixed-rate loans provide borrowers with the opportunity to take advantage of historically low-interest rates. When interest rates are low, borrowers can secure a favorable fixed rate, which remains constant even if interest rates rise in the future. This allows borrowers to benefit from low rates without worrying about potential increases down the line.

Furthermore, the stability and predictability offered by fixed-rate loans make them an attractive option for homeowners looking to tap into their home equity for various financial needs, such as home improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses. By choosing a fixed-rate loan, borrowers can access the equity in their homes while enjoying the peace of mind that comes with knowing their interest rate and monthly payments will remain unchanged.

Bank service providers are leading in the home equity lending market due to their established reputation, extensive resources, and ability to offer competitive interest rates and terms.

Bank service providers have established themselves as leaders in the home equity lending market primarily because of their reputation, resources, and ability to provide competitive offerings. Banks typically have a long history of serving customers' financial needs, earning trust and credibility in the market. This established reputation often makes them the first choice for borrowers seeking home equity loans, as they are perceived as reliable and trustworthy financial institutions. Additionally, bank service providers possess extensive resources, including a large customer base, robust infrastructure, and access to capital, which enable them to offer a wide range of home equity loan products tailored to meet the diverse needs of borrowers.

These resources allow banks to efficiently process loan applications, provide personalized customer service, and offer competitive interest rates and terms, making them an attractive option for borrowers looking to access their home equity. Bank service providers often have established relationships with their customers, which can result in preferential treatment and more favorable loan terms. This can include discounts on interest rates or fees for existing customers who already have accounts or other financial products with the bank. These incentives further strengthen banks' position in the home equity lending market and attract borrowers seeking cost-effective financing options.

Moreover, banks' comprehensive suite of financial products and services, including home equity loans, allows them to cross-sell to existing customers and attract new customers who may be interested in bundling their banking needs. By offering a one-stop-shop for all financial needs, banks can enhance customer loyalty and retention while capturing a larger share of the home equity lending market.

North America is leading in the home equity lending market due to its mature financial infrastructure, widespread homeownership culture, and favorable regulatory environment.

North America's dominance in the home equity lending market can be attributed to several key factors. The region boasts a mature financial infrastructure characterized by well-established banking systems, robust regulatory frameworks, and advanced technological capabilities. This infrastructure enables financial institutions to efficiently originate, process, and manage home equity loans, facilitating smoother transactions for borrowers and lenders alike. North America has a strong culture of homeownership, with a significant portion of the population owning property.

This widespread homeownership culture creates a large pool of potential borrowers who may seek to leverage their home equity for various purposes, such as home improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses. As a result, there is a consistently high demand for home equity loans in the region, driving growth in the market. Additionally, North America benefits from a favorable regulatory environment that supports the home equity lending market while safeguarding the interests of consumers. Regulatory bodies such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in the United States oversee lending practices and ensure compliance with consumer protection laws, promoting transparency and fairness in the market.

This regulatory oversight instills confidence among borrowers, encouraging them to explore home equity lending options with greater trust and peace of mind. North America's strong economic performance and stable housing market contribute to the region's leadership in home equity lending. Moreover, a stable housing market characterized by moderate appreciation rates and low foreclosure rates provides lenders with confidence in the value of collateral backing home equity loans, reducing credit risk and facilitating lending activity.

• In September 2023, Frost, the subsidiary of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc., and one of the largest banks based in Texas, introduced its Progress Home Equity Loan, designed to offer funding to low-to-moderate income homeowners at competitive rates and terms.
• In April 2022, Redfin completed its previously announced acquisition of Bay Equity Home Loans for US$137.8 million in cash. The union of Redfin’s national brokerage with Bay Equity’s full-service mortgage lending operation accelerates Redfin’s strategy to become a one-stop shop for consumers to buy, sell, rent, and finance a home.
• In July 2022, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board acquired HomeQ which exists as a parent company of HomeEquity Bank, from Birch Hill Equity Partners Management Inc. HomeEquity Bank exist as a Canadian Bank offering a range of reverse mortgage solutions product and Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board is a global investor.

Years considered in this report:

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in the report:

• Home Equity market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type:

• Fixed rate Loans
• Home Equity line of Credits

By Service Providers:

• Bank
• Online
• Credit Union
• Other

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. After this, the analysts made primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once the analysts acquired primary data, they started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the home equity industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.