Basics
What is home equity?
Borrowing against the equity in your home can be a smart move if you’re careful.
Home equity loan requirements
When lenders check your financial situation, these criteria will count the most.
How to build home equity
Building equity is a smart financial move, and there are a few ways to do it.
How to calculate home equity
Use these five steps to learn how much equity you have in your home.
Editor's Picks
Latest Articles
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Home equity: Elevated rates will linger
The long-term picture is brighter, but only for borrowers with good credit.
1 min read Apr 29, 2009
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Home equity lenders may block refinance
Home equity lenders have to OK a refinancing, and many are saying no. They want the loan paid off.
3 min read Feb 26, 2009
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National home equity loan averages
Here are the average home equity rates from Bankrate’s weekly survey.
1 min read Feb 26, 2009
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Rate best bets: Home equity
How were home equity rates affected by the Federal Reserve meeting?
1 min read Jan 28, 2009
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How do I: Claim a tax deduction for home equity interest
If you’ve taken out a home equity loan or HELOC, don’t forget you can deduct the interest.
1 min read Jan 23, 2009
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Chapter 2: Decisions, decisions
Which type of equity loan is right for you? It depends on why you need the cash, and how long you’ll be borrowing.
1 min read Oct 20, 2008
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How bad is home equity debt?
Savings rates in America are low, while the debt load continues to climb. Is home debt bad?
1 min read Jun 16, 2008
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6 things to know about home equity debt
Good and bad reasons to tap that equity in your home and how to keep it in line.
1 min read Jun 16, 2008
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Interview: Barbara Corcoran
TV show contributor and real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran once used the equity in her home to save her company.
4 min read May 21, 2007
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Homeowners upside down in homes
Find out what the nation’s homeowners have to say about their homes’ equity and how they use it.
6 min read May 21, 2007