Four Smart Ways to Put Your Home Equity to Work

Your Home Equity May Be One of The Most Powerful Financial Tools You Have

Homeowners currently hold trillions in accessible equity

Four Smart Ways to Put Your Home Equity to Work

Your home isn’t just where life happens.
For many homeowners, it’s also one of their strongest financial assets. 

Over the past several years, home values have risen steadily while many homeowners have continued paying down their mortgages. The result? Significant equity.

But equity isn’t just a number on paper. It’s leverage. It’s flexibility. It’s opportunity.

Let’s look at what that really means — and how it can support your next move. 

How Much Equity Do Homeowners Really Have?

Equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on it. As your property value increases and your loan balance decreases, your ownership stake grows.

National data shows (see chart): 

• 39% of homeowners own their homes free and clear
• 27% have at least 50% equity
• The typical homeowner holds nearly $300,000 in equity 

Sources: Census, ATTOM

That’s substantial. And whether your number is above or below the national average, the key question is this:

How could your equity support your goals right now?

1. Move Into a Home That Fits Your Life Today

Life changes. Families grow. Children leave. Careers shift. Priorities evolve.

If your current home no longer aligns with your lifestyle, equity can provide the down payment — or even allow for a strong cash position — on a home that better supports this next chapter.

For many of my clients, equity is what makes the transition seamless.

2. Reinvent the Home You’re In

Not every change requires a move.

If you love your location but want better functionality, equity can help fund meaningful upgrades — kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor living spaces, or even layout improvements.

The key is being strategic. Not all renovations bring equal return. Before investing in updates, it’s wise to understand what adds real value in our local market. That’s where thoughtful guidance matters.

3. Fund a Major Life Goal

Equity can extend far beyond housing decisions. 

Some homeowners use it to: 

• Launch a business
• Invest for retirement
• Cover education expenses
• Help a loved one with their first home purchase

For many families, real estate becomes a generational wealth tool. Used wisely, equity can create long-term opportunity.

4. Create a Safety Net in Challenging Times

If financial pressure ever becomes a concern, equity can provide options.

Rather than facing foreclosure, many homeowners are able to sell and walk away with proceeds in hand. Having equity gives you choices — and choices create stability.

If this is something weighing on you, confidential conversations can make a significant difference.

If You’re Curious About Your Equity, Here’s Where to Start

Step 1: Request a personalized home value and equity review. Online estimates are broad averages. A local evaluation provides clarity.

Step 2: Speak with a financial advisor before making decisions. Understanding loan-to-value ratios and maintaining a healthy equity cushion — typically 20% or more — is important for long-term stability.

National data shows homeowners currently hold trillions in accessible equity while still maintaining that financial buffer.

The opportunity is real. The key is using it wisely.

The Bottom Line

Your home equity may be one of the most powerful financial tools you have.

Whether you’re considering a move, exploring renovations, or planning your next big goal, it’s worth understanding what’s available to you.

If you’d like a clear picture of your home’s value and how your equity could work for you, I’m here to help you evaluate your options — thoughtfully and strategically.

What would you pursue right now if the funds were already in place?