Equity

Equity unlock calculator

Estimate how much equity you have in your home and how much of it you could use, based on your property's value, what you owe and the LVR you choose.

What it shows

Total equity and usable equity.

Your total equity

Your property's estimated value less what you owe on it. It's the share of your home you own outright.

Your usable equity

The amount you could borrow against, usually worked out at 80% of the property's value less your current loan. It's often well below your total equity.

The effect of your LVR

Change the loan-to-value ratio to see how going above or below 80% changes what's available, and where lenders mortgage insurance may come in.

Using your equity

Equity is borrowing power, not free money.

Accessing equity means increasing your loan, so it needs a plan. Whether you're renovating or buying an investment property, these are the things that shape how much you can use.

The valuation matters

Your usable equity depends on what the lender's valuer thinks your property is worth, which can differ from online estimates and agent appraisals. We can arrange a valuation before you commit to anything.

You still need to service it

Even with plenty of equity, a lender will check that your income can cover the larger loan. Equity sets how much you could access; your income decides how much you can borrow.

Common ways people use it

A deposit for an investment property, a renovation, or clearing higher-interest debts. Keeping the new borrowing in its own loan split makes it easier to track, especially where tax is involved.

Going above 80%

Some lenders will let you borrow beyond 80% of your property's value, but lenders mortgage insurance usually applies. It can still make sense in the right situation, and we'll show you the real cost first.

Equity questions

Know what your home is really worth to you.

The questions homeowners ask us most about using their equity. Got another? Book a chat.

What is usable equity?

Usable equity is the part of your home's value you can borrow against. Lenders usually work it out as 80% of the property's value, less what you still owe. A $900,000 home with a $500,000 loan has $400,000 of total equity and $220,000 of usable equity at 80%.

How can I access the equity in my home?

Usually by refinancing or increasing your existing loan, often as a separate loan split or line of credit. The lender will value your property and assess your income to make sure you can manage the higher repayments.

Can I use equity to buy an investment property?

Yes. Many investors use equity to cover the deposit and costs of their next purchase instead of saving a cash deposit. How you structure it matters, so it's worth planning with a broker and your accountant.

Will using my equity increase my repayments?

Yes. Borrowing more increases your loan balance, so your repayments go up. The calculator shows what's available, and we can model the repayments before you decide.

How often can I have my property revalued?

You can ask for a valuation whenever you're looking to access equity or refinance. If your property has grown in value since you bought it, a new valuation may show more usable equity than you had.

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