re: HELOC options in Louisiana?

Few things from a banker:

-A HELOC is a floating rate line of credit that is secured with your home (secured). Some banks might offer a teaser rate, but that rate will go up and will be variable.
-If you truly want a home equity option (would not be my 1st or 2nd option) you probably want a Home equity loan, which gives you a fixed rate vs a floating rate (HELOC).
-You did not disclose what the $52k in debt was, so assuming it is cc debt then that is debt is probably unsecured. I would explore other options than securing a new loan with your home as collateral