Buying guide

Guide: using equity to buy a second property, renovate, or invest

Do you know how much equity you have?

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 3 February 2025 | 5 min read
AI

AI summary

As a homeowner, you can leverage your usable equity—the value above the required 20% minimum—to fund major goals without a cash deposit. This powerful financial tool can be used for various purposes.

Common strategies include:

- Securing a deposit for a second property or bach

- Funding renovations that add value, such as adding a bedroom or bathroom

- Investing in a business or helping family buy a home

Unlocking equity means increasing your debt, so carefully consider the higher repayments and consult a mortgage broker.

How much equity is in my house?

Equity = House market value - Home loan amount

Useable equity = Equity - 20% of home value

If you've owned your house for a while you might be surprised what you can borrow.

Can you use equity as a house deposit?

What else can I do with my equity?

Building a home

Helping your kids buy a home

It may even be possible to build a new home using equity from your existing home.

Renovating or extending

Getting cash out

How to get started

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer