An equity loan (often called a "second mortgage") allows you to borrow against the value of your home that is not already tied up in a primary mortgage. Unlike a primary mortgage used to purchase a home, an equity loan provides a lump sum for expenses like home improvements, debt consolidation, or education.

: A common guideline is the 28/36 rule , where no more than 28% of your gross monthly income goes to housing costs and no more than 36% goes to total debt. Some lenders may allow a back-end DTI up to 43%.

: Lenders often limit the combined total of your primary mortgage and equity loan to 80-85% of your home's appraised value.

Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit | Consumer Advice

: The current market value of your home minus the remaining debt on your primary mortgage.