What is home equity?
It’s the portion of your home you own outright. Its uses are almost endless.
9 min read
Mar 31, 2026
Allison Martin
Contributor, Personal Finance
EXPERTISE
- Personal finance
- Taxes
- Mortgages and real estate
- Consumer loans
- Small business loans
- Student loans
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s, University of South Florida
- Master’s, University of South Florida
Allison Martin is a contributor to Bankrate covering personal finance, including taxes, mortgages, auto loans and small business loans. Martin’s work began over 10 years ago as a digital content strategist, and she’s since been published in several leading outlets, including The Wall Street Journal, MSN Money, MoneyTalksNews, Investopedia, Experian and Credit.com. Martin, a Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFE), also shares her passion for financial literacy and entrepreneurship with others through interactive workshops and programs.
Allison's latest articles
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What is owner financing, and how does it work?
In this arrangement, the seller — not a a mortgage lender — loans money to the buyer.
5 min read Mar 13, 2026 -
Can you return a car you just bought? What to do about buyer’s remorse
It can’t hurt to dispute the car’s purchase. Here’s what to do.
6 min read Feb 28, 2026 -
How to save for a down payment
Saving the cash you’ll need upfront on a house can be tough. These tactics can help.
5 min read Feb 09, 2026 -
Bank of America personal loan alternatives
Bank of America does not offer personal loans.
5 min read Jan 07, 2026 -
How to get a lower car payment: The 6 best strategies
If you need space in your budget, here’s how to get a lower car payment.
5 min read Sep 23, 2025 -
Where to get a business loan
You can get small business loans from banks, online lenders and even nonprofits.
5 min read Sep 16, 2025 -
How your mortgage affects your credit score
Does it ding it? Increase it? It can do both. Here’s what to expect.
4 min read Sep 09, 2025