Home Equity
Find out what home equity is and how to use it, plus news, advice and tools on home equity loans and HELOCs.
Basics
Editor's Picks
Latest Articles
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What is negative equity? A guide to underwater mortgages
It’s when your home’s value sinks below the amount you owe on your mortgage.
6 min read Jan 09, 2024 -
How to unlock your home equity during financial turmoil
Some ways your home can cushion you when unexpected expenses arise.
5 min read Jan 05, 2024 -
Forecast: Big drops in HELOC rates, modest declines for home equity loans in 2024
Bankrate Chief Financial Analyst Greg McBride shares his take on what will happen to home equity rates in 2024.
2 min read Jan 02, 2024 -
Should you use a home equity loan to pay off an auto loan?
Probably not. Here are all the pros and cons to consider.
5 min read Dec 15, 2023 -
Home equity loan or HELOC vs. reverse mortgage: Which is right for you?
They all let you tap your ownership stake, but they differ significantly in a lot of ways.
12 min read Dec 14, 2023 -
Does a HELOC affect your credit score?
You bet — in ways both good and bad.Here’s how to judge its impact.
5 min read Dec 13, 2023 -
Should you use a home equity loan for debt consolidation?
It can be a smart strategy, provided you understand what you’re risking.
12 min read Dec 12, 2023 -
Should I use a home equity loan to buy a car?
It’s not so much whether you can, but if you should.
5 min read Dec 12, 2023 -
How your home can pay for emergency repairs
Use your home to fix your home by tapping your equity stake. Just bear the risks in mind.
8 min read Dec 08, 2023 -
How to build equity in your home (and why you should)
Building home equity is a smart financial move. Here’s how to do it.
9 min read Dec 08, 2023