As a new homeowner, understanding home equity is crucial for managing your financial future. Here’s what you need to know about home equity and how you can build and utilize it effectively!
What is Home Equity?
Home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and the outstanding balance of any loans secured on the property. In simple terms, home equity is the amount of the home you own outright. For example, if your home is valued at $300,000 and you owe $200,000 on your mortgage, your home equity would be $100,000.
Building Home Equity
As you build equity, you’re increasing your net worth and creating a valuable financial asset. Having substantial home equity can provide homeowners with greater financial security. Here are the two ways you may be able to build home equity:
- Paying Down Your Mortgage: Depending on the type of mortgage you have, each mortgage payment you make may reduce your loan balance, which can increase your home equity. If you want to accelerate your equity even further, consider making additional payments toward your mortgage principal balance each month!
- Property Appreciation: If the market value of your home increases, your equity may also increase. Regular maintenance and investing in home improvements can greatly increase your home’s value!
Building equity through mortgage payments and home improvements may allow you to leverage your home to achieve some long-term financial goals. As you continue to make memories in your home, be sure to stay informed about your home’s market value and make strategic choices to improve your home equity effectively!
