Refresh, Remodel, or Reimagine: How to Use Your Home Equity for Smart Home Improvements

Homes & real estate
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Refresh, Remodel, or Reimagine: How to Use Your Home Equity for Smart Home Improvements

Homes & real estate

Turn Equity into Opportunity

Your home does more than provide a place to live. It’s a place that grows with you and supports the projects, improvements, and dreams you have for your life. If you have built up equity, you may be able to put that money to work to refresh your home, make needed repairs, or take on the projects you have been thinking about for years.


Popular Ways to Invest in Your Home

Kitchen upgrades:
The kitchen is often called the heart of the home, and for good reason. Updating counters, cabinets, or flooring can give the space a refreshed look while improving everyday function. Swapping out older appliances for energy-efficient models may also help reduce utility costs over time. Even small updates like new lighting, hardware, or a backsplash can make the space feel brighter, more welcoming, and more enjoyable to use.

Bathroom remodels:
Refreshing a bathroom can range from replacing outdated fixtures and mirrors to fully retiling and updating the shower or tub. Improvements such as better ventilation, a modern vanity, or walk-in showers can add comfort and convenience to daily routines. An updated bathroom can also enhance overall appeal when it comes time to sell.

Outdoor living:
Expanding your living space does not always mean building an addition. Outdoor upgrades like a deck, patio, pergola, or refreshed landscaping can create a relaxing retreat and boost curb appeal. Adding comfortable seating areas or soft lighting can help you enjoy your outdoor space more often and for longer parts of the year.

Whole-home refresh:
Not every project requires a full renovation. Sometimes a fresh coat of paint, updated trim, or new flooring can completely change the feel of a home. Updating light fixtures, window treatments, or interior doors can help older spaces feel more cohesive, modern, and inviting.


Benefits of Using Home Equity for Improvements

Lower interest rates:
Compared to credit cards or personal loans, home equity options often come with lower interest rates, which can help keep your project costs more manageable over time.

Potential tax advantages:
In some cases, the interest paid on a home equity loan or line of credit used for qualified home improvements may be tax-deductible. Always check with a tax consultant to confirm eligibility based on your specific situation.

Increased property value:
Well-planned improvements can make your home more functional and appealing while potentially increasing resale value. Even smaller updates that modernize key spaces or improve efficiency can provide lasting benefits.


Before You Begin

It is helpful to approach renovations with a clear plan. Think through your priorities, set a realistic budget, and consider which updates will bring the most enjoyment or long-term value to your home. Taking time to plan and research costs can support confident decisions that balance comfort, style, and overall value.