Here's how to use (and not use) your home equity this fall, according to experts

There are both smart and risky ways to borrow money from your home this fall. alexkich/Getty Images

Interest rates are elevated, and the cost of living keeps rising, so many homeowners are turning to their property for financial breathing room. Home prices are still high, and most homeowners have substantial home equity , about $313,000 on average, according to a March 2025 ICE Mortgage Monitor report . Understandably, many want to utilize it with a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) for much-needed cash.

Of course, there's a benefit-risk ratio to consider with any loan product. On the one hand, using a home equity loan or HELOC the right way could help you achieve a major financial goal or strengthen your overall situation. But using it the wrong wa