Home equity, noun: the difference between the market value of your home and the amount you owe on your mortgage. For instance, if your home is worth $200,000 and you still owe $100,000 on your mortgage, you have $100,000 in home equity.
Home equity is important because it can be used to secure a home equity loan or line of credit, which can be used to finance home improvements, pay for education, or consolidate debt. Historically, home equity was the primary way that homeowners built wealth, as home prices have traditionally risen over time.