We just became debt free with a paid off mortgage; home worth $425K, joint ownership. Upon having our taxes done in Feb, the accountant suggested getting a HELOC so we have accessible money for some home repairs/remodel desperately needed bathroom, etc. on current home, so when we downsize in 4-6 years (or possibly sooner, our home will be ready to sell without rushing to get ‘er done. DH plans to retire around in that same timeframe putting him at 64ish. We were approved for $250K no fees HELOC, but upon going in to sign the loan papers, we found that the bank rep put DH as sole responsible signer. FYI: The larger HELOC is just in case we find a home to buy before ours sells so we have cash to put down. Luckily, we now live in an extremely desirable neighborhood where the homes have always sold in 2-3 weeks.
We generally do most things jointly. Not sure why the rep made DH sole signer other than when I filled out the paperwork, I did not include my income since it’s not much and goes back into my small biz (self-employed). DH brings home the dough and I handle all finances/bills (though he’s in tune with things). Upon finding out about the sole signer, we postponed closing to decide whether to keep the HELOC docs as is or have me as listed as joint owner. Both of our credit scores are over 800, btw, and we are extremely responsible to use the loan only for its intended purpose (I've heard stories of others...). My question is: Does it really matter if DH is the only signer, or is it best to have both of us on the note as owners? We were dealing with a different banker yesterday as oppose to the one who originated the loan PW, so I’ll find out next week why she did it this way. Thoughts. Thanks.
We generally do most things jointly. Not sure why the rep made DH sole signer other than when I filled out the paperwork, I did not include my income since it’s not much and goes back into my small biz (self-employed). DH brings home the dough and I handle all finances/bills (though he’s in tune with things). Upon finding out about the sole signer, we postponed closing to decide whether to keep the HELOC docs as is or have me as listed as joint owner. Both of our credit scores are over 800, btw, and we are extremely responsible to use the loan only for its intended purpose (I've heard stories of others...). My question is: Does it really matter if DH is the only signer, or is it best to have both of us on the note as owners? We were dealing with a different banker yesterday as oppose to the one who originated the loan PW, so I’ll find out next week why she did it this way. Thoughts. Thanks.
