Equity and home value

Learn what equity is and the different ways it can benefit you

Featured resources

A large red brick house with a spacious yard, showcasing a substantial residential property.

7-minute read

Is a home equity loan a good idea?

A home equity loan can be a good idea for some homeowners but risky for others. Here are the financial and personal factors to consider before applying.

Someone painting the outside of a house, symbolizing sweat equity in home improvement.

6-minute read

Sweat equity in real estate: What is it and how to leverage it

Sweat equity is the unpaid time and effort someone puts into a project. Here’s how it works and how to leverage it in real estate to help boost your re...

A family with a dog, suggesting a family accompanied by a pet in a residential setting.

4-minute read

What is negative equity and can you avoid it?

Learn about negative equity and how it can affect you. Read on to see what you can do if your assets are underwater.

A man working on paperwork, potentially related to mortgage documents or financial planning.

7-minute read

How to get a home equity loan with 'bad' credit: A guide

Wondering how you can get a home equity loan with "bad" credit? Learn more about what's required to get a home equity loan if you have a low credit score.

A dad walking with his son on a sidewalk.

5-minute read

How to build equity in a home

Building equity in a home strengthens your asset and may give you access to cash. Read about the ways you can build equity in your home.

A woman hugging her father in front of a property possibly in woods.

4-minute read

Step-up in basis defined: How does it work?

Deciding between gifting your home or bequeathing it? You may want to weigh the tax implications first. Learn how a step-up in basis affects inherited property.