Over $2 billion invested, 22,000+ homeowners served, and up to $600K available with zero monthly payments. The most trusted name in home equity investments with a 4.8/5 customer rating.
Quick comparison
Side-by-side look at the top HEI companies for 2026.
| Company | Max investment | Equity share | Term | Min. credit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hometap
Our Pick
|
$600K | 10–25% | 10 years | 500+ | Get Estimate → |
Unison
Longest term
|
$500K | Variable* | 30 years | 620+ | Get Estimate → |
*Unison's equity share is proportional to investment amount and varies by individual circumstances. Rates and terms accurate as of March 2026.
In-depth reviews
Our editors spent 40+ hours evaluating terms, transparency, customer experience, and long-term value.
Hometap
Industry leader with over $2 billion invested, serving 22,000+ homeowners across 16 states and D.C.
- Largest investment amounts — up to $600K
- Available in 16+ states and D.C.
- No monthly payments, ever
- No income or DTI requirements
- No impact on DTI during the term
- Settle anytime within 10 years
- Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
- Excellent customer reviews — 4.8/5 stars
- Not available in all 50 states
- Settlement required at sale or 10-year term end
- Lump-sum repayment — plan your exit accordingly
Hometap is the gold standard for home equity investments. With $2B+ deployed to 22,000+ homeowners, they offer the best mix of large investment amounts, transparent pricing, and flexible exit terms. If you need substantial cash without monthly payments, start here.
Unison
Industry pioneer since 2004 — the longest 30-year term and widest coverage across 29 states and D.C.
- Longest 30-year term in the industry
- Most states — 29 plus D.C.
- Industry pioneer since 2004 with 20+ years of history
- Up to $500K available
- No monthly payments or interest
- Shares in depreciation — protection in down markets
- Lower minimum credit score at 620
- Higher origination fees at 3.9%
- Complex equity share formula
- 5% discount applied to home value at start
- Mixed reviews on long-term settlement costs
- May complicate future refinancing
Unison pioneered the HEI category in 2004 and offers unmatched flexibility with its 30-year term — you're never rushed to sell or refinance. With the widest state availability and a lower 620 credit bar, they're the best option for homeowners planning to stay long-term.
With over 10 years of personal finance experience, we spent 40+ hours researching and stress-testing HEI providers — analyzing terms, fee structures, customer satisfaction, and real settlement outcomes.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before applying.
