Discover how your equity has been quietly building behind the scenes.
When was the last time you checked the true value of your home? For many homeowners in Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, and Bonney Lake, the answer is “not nearly often enough.” Yet your home is likely your biggest financial asset—and one that’s been working for you in the background.
Even with recent shifts in the market, most homeowners are sitting on significant wealth through home equity. This is the difference between what your home is worth today and what you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your loan and as property values rise, your equity grows—often faster than you realize.
For example, if your home is worth $500,000 and your remaining mortgage is $200,000, that’s $300,000 in equity. Nationwide, the average homeowner with a mortgage now has about $302,000 in equity, according to recent data.
Why Your Equity May Be Higher Than Expected
There are two main reasons:
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Home prices have surged nearly 54% in the past five years, meaning your home is likely worth much more than when you bought it.
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Longer homeowner tenure—with people staying in their homes around 10 years—has allowed equity to accumulate steadily through regular mortgage payments and market appreciation.
Over the past decade, the typical homeowner has gained about $201,600 in wealth solely from price growth. That’s a major financial advantage you may be sitting on right now.
How to Put Your Equity to Work
Equity isn’t just a number—it’s a tool. You can:
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Use it for a down payment on your next home (possibly even buying in cash).
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Invest in renovations that boost your comfort and add resale value.
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Fund a new business or opportunity you’ve been waiting to launch.
If you’re considering making a move in Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, or Bonney Lake, now may be the perfect time to see what your home is truly worth. A trusted local agent can help you assess your options and make the most of your equity.
Curious about how much equity you’ve built up? Visit your real estate story to explore your home’s potential and take the next step toward your goals.
