PNC Bank HELOC Review 2023
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Our Take
5.0
The bottom line:
PNC Bank’s HELOC stands out for rate discount and options for a variable rate as well as a fixed rate, which can help keep payments predictable. It has no minimum draw in most states, but be aware of the annual fee.
Full Review
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customizable sample rates available online.
- Available for second homes in most states.
- Offers a rate discount for autopay from a PNC checking account.
Cons
- Not available in all states.
- Investment property HELOC available only to wealth-management customers.
- Charges an annual fee.
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Full Review
PNC Bank HELOC rates and discounts
Most home equity line of credit, or HELOC, interest rates are indexed to a base rate called the prime rate. The annual percentage rate, or APR, that you’re offered will include a margin the lender has added to the prime rate. Offered margins depend largely on factors like your credit score, your existing debt and the amount you wish to borrow, but they will vary by lender.
Current prime rate | Prime rate last month | Prime rate in the past year — low | Prime rate in the past year — high |
|---|---|---|---|
8.25%. | 8%. | 3.5%. | 8.25%. |
PNC Bank posts a sample HELOC rate on its website. The lender offers a variable rate, which can go up or down with market forces, and a fixed rate, which remains stable and can keep payments predictable. On the day we checked, the variable rate was 9.82%. A rate discount is available for borrowers who elect to make automatic payments from a PNC checking account.
» MORE: A closer look at HELOC rates
Applying for a PNC Bank HELOC
Borrowers can apply online, in person at a PNC Bank branch or by phone. On the day we called, it took less than a minute to reach an advisor familiar with the HELOC process. The lender does not offer a live chat or chatbot on its website. To apply for a HELOC, you’ll need to supply:
Some personal information.
Credit history.
Financial and tax details about your home.
Closing and managing a PNC Bank HELOC
No matter how you apply for a HELOC, you’ll close the line of credit in person at a PNC Bank branch. Branches are not available in every state. The line of credit can close seven to 10 days after approval, the lender says. The HELOC offers a 10-year draw period with a 30-year repayment period in most states. Borrowers can access funds in various ways, including checks, a Visa-backed card and through online banking. Payment can be made by mail, online, through autopay and by bank transfer.
» MORE: Best HELOC lenders
Alternatives to a PNC Bank HELOC
Bank of America offers a HELOC up to $1 million with no annual fees or closing costs, and U.S. Bank offers a HELOC with a rate discount for current customers.
HELOCs offer a flexible way to access home equity over a period of time and pay interest only on the funds you withdraw. However, rising interest rates can bump up your monthly payment, and, as with credit cards, it takes discipline to avoid overspending.
Alternatives to home equity lines of credit include a home equity loan, which offers a lump sum with a fixed rate, or a cash-out refinance, which replaces your existing mortgage with a larger loan. PNC Bank does not offer a home equity loan, but cash-out refinancing is available.
Methodology
NerdWallet’s HELOC star ratings are awarded by the editorial team based on the following evaluated factors: whether a fixed-rate option is available, combined loan-to-value ratio, annual fees and transparency on key factors.
