Figure

Figure is an online lender that specializes in mortgage refinancing and home equity lines of credit. Unlike traditional lenders, the company uses blockchain technology to record, process and store loan application data. Its application process requires minimal borrower input; the company collects W-2 forms, bank statements and pay stocks online. Because the application is online and it collects many important forms itself, it can approve applications within just a few minutes.

Figure works by providing mortgage refinance loans and home equity lines to individual and joint borrowers. Refinancing is exclusively for single-family homes and townhouses borrowers maintain as primary residences. It also offers first and subordinate liens, meaning you can still get a HELOC even if your home is already paid off.

You can apply for more than one loan, but the total loan amount is limited to $250,000 per borrower and $250,000 per property. The financial products below are serviced by Figure or approved sub-servicers.

• Home equity line: Up to $250,000 with the option to redraw up to 100%. Select from five-year to 30-year fixed term options.
• Cash-out refinance: Up to $500,000 with custom rates and payment options. Available in 15-year and 30-year terms.
• Jumbo refinance: Up to $1,500,000 (maximum 80% the home’s value). Available with a 30-year term.
• Personal loan: Up to $50,000. Multiple terms are available with competitive fixed rates.

In most states, Figure requires a minimum credit score of 620 (720 in Oklahoma) to qualify for a home equity line of credit. Applicants also need a higher credit score of at least 680 for investment properties. Eligible applicants must also have a verifiable employment history.

Its application and processing are fully streamlined. This lets Figure approve home equity lines of credit within a few minutes and lets homeowners close in as few as five days. In some areas, the company also provides video notary services in some states.

Minimum lines of credit start at $15,000 in most states ($25,001 in Alaska and Wisconsin). Depending on your credit score, the loan limits for terms over five, 10 and 30 years are as follows.

To refinance a conforming loan, Figure requires applicants have a minimum FICO score of 620. A score of 700 is required for jumbo loans. For a cash-out refinance, you can borrow up to 75% of your home’s value ($1,000,000 maximum). With a rate refinance, you can get up to 80% of your home’s value ($1,500,000 maximum).

You can fill out the quick application to see your estimated refinancing rates. If you decide to borrow from Figure, you’ll have to fill out a more comprehensive form that requires a credit check. You will likely also need a home appraisal.

The refinancing application takes longer to process, but most applicants get a decision in less than a month. Though the application process is entirely online, you may be required to attend an in-person closing. Other terms and conditions may apply.

As of publishing, APRs start at 2.49% for home equity lines. However, your credit, combined loan-to-value ratio, loan term, occupancy status and other factors affect the actual rate you qualify for. You should fill out an online application for the most accurate rate estimates.

We like that Figure doesn’t charge maintenance fees or prepayment penalties. Depending on the county you live in, you might have to pay a release-recording fee up to $105. Like most lenders, Figure charges origination, appraisal, title and settlement fees, which vary based on terms and location.

In some states, you can pay a higher origination fee in exchange for a lower APR. Figure also offers discounts to reduce your APR rate. You can get a 0.25% rate reduction for enrolling in autopay and a 0.50% APR rate reduction for opting into a Quorum Federal Credit Union membership.

We like that the fully online services allow for rapid loan approvals and closing times. Figure is a good loan company for homeowners with single-family homes or townhouses who want to refinance their mortgage or access a line of credit. It's not a good choice for those who own multifamily properties, investment properties, second homes or homes as part of an LLC or trust. If you need to reduce your mortgage rate or pull cash from your home quickly, Figure might be a good fit.