Point Launches New Home Equity Investment Program

The firm introduces a third-party originator program as scrutiny grows over the classification of home equity products.

Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Residential

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stylized house shape and a geometric coin, representing home equity investment programs. — Point has introduced a third-party originator program for home equity investments as the industry faces increased scrutiny and regulatory pressure. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Would you consider a home equity investment to access cash without making monthly payments?

Point has launched a new third-party originator program for home equity investments, a move occurring as the industry faces legal and regulatory pressure. These agreements provide homeowners with a lump sum in exchange for a share of future property appreciation.

Why it matters

Shared equity products are gaining traction because many homeowners are unable to access traditional credit. With 35% of cash-out refinance and HELOC applications denied in 2024, originators are seeking new ways to reach consumers.

Approximately 25% of home equity investment users held credit scores below 600, while some cases show implied effective interest rates of 30% or more. These products remain a point of contention in ongoing lawsuits against major industry firms.

The players

Point

Point is a financial services company that specializes in home equity investments.

Unison

Unison is a company that provides home equity investment products to homeowners.

Unlock

Unlock is an originator that offers home equity agreements to individuals seeking access to cash.

Hometap

Hometap is an investment firm that provides capital to homeowners in exchange for a portion of future home value.

The details

Homeowners using these products typically have 10 to 30 years to repay the investment without making monthly payments. The principal is recouped only when the owner sells or refinances the property, a model currently subject to a Senate proposal that would define the products as residential mortgages under the Truth in Lending Act.

From 2015 to 2025, the three largest home equity investment firms originated 54,000 total agreements.
During 2024, approximately 35% of applications for traditional home equity credit were denied.
Point introduced its new third-party originator program in October 2026.

Culture Shift

The expansion of shared equity products reflects a move away from traditional lending as homeowners grapple with limited access to conventional credit. This trend highlights the growing tension between innovative financial products and the consumer protections established by the Truth in Lending Act.

Homeowners should be aware that these agreements may result in repayment costs far exceeding traditional loan interest rates, with some cases reaching 30% annually. It is essential to weigh the benefit of immediate cash against the long-term claim the provider holds on future property appreciation.

The takeaway

Homeowners who cannot access traditional bank loans should carefully review the specific terms of home equity agreements to understand how future home price appreciation affects their long-term equity. Because these products function differently than standard mortgages, it is important to treat them as complex financial contracts rather than simple cash advances.