How to Calculate Equity Calc
What is Equity Calc?
Home equity is the portion of property value you own: current market value minus outstanding mortgage balance. Equity grows as you repay the mortgage and as property values rise.
Formula
Home equity = Current market value − Outstanding mortgage balance; Equity % = Equity / Current value × 100%; LTV = Mortgage / Current value × 100%
- V
- Current market value (Currency)
- M
- Outstanding mortgage balance (Currency)
- E
- Home equity (Currency)
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Equity = Current value − Mortgage balance
- 2Equity % = Equity / Value × 100
- 3LTV = Mortgage / Value × 100
- 4HELOC lets you borrow against equity up to ~80% LTV
Worked Examples
Input
Home $420k, mortgage $260k
Result
Equity = $160k (38.1%); LTV = 61.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does equity increase automatically?
Two ways: (1) Paying principal reduces mortgage balance. (2) Home price appreciation increases value. Both grow equity. Price drops reduce it (negative equity possible).
What's the maximum I can borrow against equity?
Typically 80–85% LTV for HELOC or home equity loan. So a $300k home with $100k equity may let you borrow $140k (50% LTV cushion).
Is accessing equity via HELOC a good idea?
It's a tool. Low rates make it attractive for debt consolidation, repairs, or investments. But spending equity on consumption is risky—you're leveraging your home.