Hello. I’m writing an article for Bankrate and am seeking to interview real estate experts, lending professionals, business faculty, personal finance experts, certified financial planners, and other experts for the following story: Can you use a HELOC like an emergency fund or credit card? I can only accept written responses to the following questions (below), due by noon Central, Thursday, June 19, 2025. Please contact me if you’d like to participate. QUESTIONS: 1. Please explain the strategy of establishing a HELOC not using it right away – just keeping it in reserve for emergencies or as needs/expenses arise. How does this work? Please provide one or more hypothetical examples with math. 2. Is this strategy allowed? Do you have to provide the lender with a reason for your HELOC? 3. What are the pros/benefits of this strategy (using a HELOC like an emergency fund or credit card)? 4. What are the disadvantages of this strategy? 5. Who are good candidates for this strategy and why? Who should stay away? 6. Please explain how to shop for and what to look for in a HELOC and a HELOC lender when pursuing this strategy (e.g., no or low maintenance fees, no minimum drawer initial draw when opening the HELOC, long draw period, etc.) 7. Any other thoughts, tips, or ideas?

posted6/16/2025

deadline6/19/2025

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published9/23/2025