Home equity is the estimated value of your home minus the amount you still owe on loans secured by the property.

How much equity can I access?

The amount depends on your home value, mortgage balance, credit profile, income, and lender requirements. Many lenders also require homeowners to keep a portion of equity in the property.

Is a HELOC the same as a home equity loan?

No. A HELOC is generally a revolving line of credit, while a home equity loan typically provides a fixed lump sum with scheduled payments.

Smarter homeowner finance

Your home built the equity. Now put it to work.

Understand what your equity may be worth, compare common financing paths, and move forward with clarity—not pressure.

Calculate My Equity Explore your options

Freeplanning tools

Clearside-by-side guidance

No pressureeducation first

Estimated home equity Growing

$128,400

Home value$425,000

Loan balance$296,600

Renovate

Consolidate

Invest

Home improvements◆Debt consolidation◆Education◆Emergency reserves◆Investment property◆Major life expenses

Choose with confidence

One asset. Several ways to access it.

Each option works differently. The right fit depends on your goals, timeline, budget, and comfort with repayment risk.

↗

Flexible access

HELOC

A revolving credit line that lets you borrow as needed, often with a variable interest rate.

Borrow only what you need
Useful for ongoing projects
Rates and payments may change

See your estimated range →

Predictable payments

Home Equity Loan

A lump-sum loan that generally comes with a fixed rate and set monthly payments.

Receive funds at once
Fixed repayment schedule
Best for defined expenses

Estimate available equity →

⌂

Replace your mortgage

Cash-Out Refinance

Replace your existing mortgage with a larger one and receive the difference in cash.

One combined mortgage payment
Closing costs may apply
Compare against your current rate

Learn what to compare →

Equity snapshot

See what may be hiding in your home.

Enter two numbers for a quick estimate. This tool is for educational purposes and does not represent a loan offer or appraisal.

Simple formula Home value − loan balance = equity

A clearer path forward

From estimate to informed decision.

Slow down the sales process and focus on the numbers that matter.

Know your starting point

Estimate your property value, mortgage balance, monthly budget, and credit profile.

Compare the full cost

Review rates, fees, repayment terms, closing costs, and the risk of using your home as collateral.

Choose for the long term

Select the option that supports your goal without stretching your future monthly cash flow.

Spend with purpose

Equity is powerful. Use it intentionally.

Borrowing against your home can create opportunity, but it also adds risk. Start with a goal that can justify the cost over time.

Read common questions →

Improve your home

Prioritize repairs or improvements that support comfort, safety, efficiency, or resale value.

Simplify expensive debt

Compare total costs carefully before exchanging unsecured debt for debt secured by your home.

Fund a major milestone

Plan for education, business, or family needs with a realistic repayment strategy.

Get grounded

Questions homeowners ask first.

Good financial decisions begin with clear, plain-English answers.

What is home equity?+

Home equity is the difference between your home's estimated market value and the balance of loans secured by the property. It can rise as you repay your mortgage or as the property value increases, and it can fall if home values decline.

How much equity can I actually borrow?+

Lenders typically consider your loan-to-value ratio, credit history, income, existing debts, property type, and other underwriting factors. Many require you to keep a minimum percentage of equity in the home.

What costs should I compare?+

Compare the annual percentage rate, interest structure, origination fees, appraisal fees, closing costs, annual fees, draw requirements, prepayment rules, and how payments may change over time.

Can using home equity put my house at risk?+

Yes. Home equity loans, HELOCs, and cash-out refinances use your property as collateral. Missing required payments can lead to serious consequences, including foreclosure.

Does the calculator guarantee approval?+

No. It is an educational estimate only. It is not an appraisal, credit decision, loan commitment, or guarantee of available funds.

Start with the math

Your equity deserves a thoughtful plan.

Estimate My Equity