How Soon Can You Get a HELOC After Buying a House? (2026)

Just bought your home and need a HELOC? Most lenders require a waiting period called "seasoning." But some don't—and there are ways around it.

Here's what you need to know.

What Is HELOC Seasoning?

Seasoning is the time you must own your home before a lender will approve a HELOC. Think of it as a waiting period.

Why do lenders require it?

Fraud Prevention Without seasoning requirements, someone could buy a home, immediately borrow against it, and disappear. The waiting period reduces this risk.

Value Stability Your purchase price might not reflect true market value. Waiting 6-12 months lets values stabilize and gives appraisers more confidence.

Payment History Lenders want to see you can make your mortgage payments before extending more credit.

Typical seasoning ranges from 6-12 months depending on the lender.

Typical HELOC Seasoning Requirements

Major Banks: 6-12 Months Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and similar large banks typically require 6-12 months of ownership. They're conservative and have strict underwriting.

Credit Unions: 6 Months or Less Local credit unions often have more flexible policies. Some allow HELOCs at 3-6 months. Membership required.

Online Lenders: Varies Widely Digital lenders range from immediate approval to standard seasoning. Figure, for example, focuses on equity rather than ownership duration. Others match traditional banks.

Portfolio Lenders: Often Flexible Smaller banks that keep loans on their books (rather than selling them) can set their own rules. Worth asking local community banks.

Can You Get a HELOC Immediately After Buying?

Sometimes. Lenders may waive seasoning if you have:

Large Down Payment Put 30%+ down? You already have significant equity, reducing lender risk. Some will approve immediately.

Excellent Credit 740+ credit scores signal reliability. Combined with equity, this opens doors.

Strong Income Documentation W-2 employees with stable income are easier approvals. Self-employed borrowers face more scrutiny.

Important note: Without seasoning, most lenders use your purchase price as the value—not a new appraisal. If your home appreciated since closing, you won't capture that gain yet.

Why Waiting Can Be Worth It

Rushing a HELOC isn't always smart:

Your Home May Appreciate Wait 6-12 months and your home might be worth more. More value = more equity = higher HELOC limit.

More Payment History Helps Six months of on-time mortgage payments strengthens your application.

Rates May Improve If rates are high now, waiting could mean better terms later.

Less Underwater Risk If values drop after purchase, you could owe more than your home is worth. Time reduces this risk.

Alternatives If You Can't Wait

Need funds now but can't get a HELOC? Consider:

Cash-Out Refinance Different seasoning rules apply. Some lenders allow cash-out refis with less waiting time. You'll refinance your entire mortgage, so compare rates carefully.

Personal Loan No home equity required. Higher rates but no waiting period. Best for smaller amounts you can repay quickly.

0% Credit Card Offers For short-term needs, a 0% intro APR card could work. Pay it off before the promotional period ends or interest hits hard.

Wait for the 6-Month Mark Often the shortest path. Six months passes faster than you think, and it opens most lender options.

What About Inherited or Gifted Homes?

Different rules often apply:

Inherited Property Seasoning typically starts when you took title, not when the original owner bought it. You may need estate settlement documentation.

Gifted Property Similar to inheritance—the clock starts at transfer. Documentation requirements may be stricter.

Transferred in Divorce Usually based on when the transfer occurred. The property's overall history may also matter.

Ask lenders specifically about your situation. These cases need individual review.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the minimum waiting period?

Some lenders have no waiting period if you have 30%+ equity and excellent credit. Most require 6 months. A few require 12.

Does seasoning differ by state?

Policies are typically lender-specific, not state-specific. However, local lenders may have different standards than national banks.

Can I apply before seasoning is complete?

Yes. Start the application 30-45 days before you hit the seasoning threshold. By the time you close, you'll meet the requirement.

The Bottom Line

Most lenders want 6-12 months of ownership before approving a HELOC. But exceptions exist for strong borrowers with substantial equity.

If you need funds now, explore alternatives. If you can wait, you'll have more options and potentially better terms.

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Recently bought your home? Check if you qualify for a HELOC with HonestCasa—even if you just closed. Some borrowers can access equity immediately.

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