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Equity grows in two ways — you owe less, or the home is worth more. You can push both.
Pay down principal faster
Extra principal payments, biweekly schedules, or a shorter loan term all shrink the balance quicker and cut total interest. Even one extra payment a year makes a visible dent.
Start with more down
A larger down payment means instant equity and a lower starting LTV.
Add value carefully
Kitchens, bathrooms and added square footage tend to return the most; not every project pays back. See using equity for home improvement.
Let time work
Long-run appreciation quietly builds equity. Track your progress with the LTV calculator.