The phrase “as-is” shows up often in real estate listings, and it tends to raise eyebrows. For some buyers, it feels like an opportunity – a chance to get a deal on a property that others might overlook. For others, it sounds like a trap.
You’ve probably heard it’s good to build equity in your home. But what is home equity, exactly? How can you calculate the equity you have in your home? What can you even use that home equity to do?
While you’ve heard that your house is your biggest asset, you might be unsure how to take advantage of the fact. Property is illiquid–which means, it isn’t ready money you can just use.
If your child is making the transition to college this year, you yourself may be anticipating a transition of your own: the “empty nest.”
Technically, the “Accessory Dwelling Unit” (ADU) has been around since the 1980s, though the concept itself is much older. If the phrase doesn’t ring a bell, you might know it better as “granny house” or “backyard cottage.”
It’s a universal truth that the vast majority of homeowners are sitting on an enormous amount of equity. That equity is most often trapped in their homes, where it can’t be used to help them with their pressing needs.
We’ve long considered ourselves privileged to empower homeowners to achieve financial freedom and wellbeing by helping them tap into their home equity.
Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are often associated with traditional borrowers who have steady W-2 income. However, if you're retired, self-employed, or receiving disability income, you might be wondering if this financial tool is accessible to you. The good news is that it can be – provided you meet certain criteria and understand the nuances involved.
Whether you’re planning to sell someday soon or simply want to build equity along the way, choosing renovations that increase home value can offer the best of both worlds – a more beautiful, functional home and a stronger financial future.
Traditional “second mortgage” options like HELOCs or home equity loans often bring larger monthly payments, stricter qualifications, and added stress – which isn’t what you need when cash flow feels tight.
If you own a home, there’s a good chance you’re sitting on a significant amount of equity. The challenge? Most of it is trapped in your property – which means it can’t help you cover pressing needs like renovating an aging home, paying down debt, saving for retirement, or investing in new opportunities.
For many California homeowners, the pressure isn’t just the daily cost of living. It’s also the weight of high-interest debt – credit cards, medical bills, car loans, student loans – all can make it feel like you’re running in place, even if the home you own has appreciated in value over the years.
If you’re a Bay Area homeowner, you probably know the feeling: your home has gone up in value, but using that value – for big expenses, renovations, or paying down debt – doesn’t feel as simple as it should.