
CoreLogic’s latest Equity Report revealed that “over the past 12 months, 712,000 borrowers moved into positive equity.” This is great news, as the share of homeowners with negative equity (those who owe more than their home is worth), has dropped more than 20% since the peak in Q4 of 2009 (26%) to 4.9% today.
The report also revealed:
- The average homeowner gained approximately $14,900 in equity during the past year.
- Compared to Q3 2016, negative equity decreased 22% from 3.2 million homes, or 6.3% of all mortgaged properties.
- U.S. homeowners with mortgages (roughly 63% of all homeowners) have seen their equity increase by a total of $870.6 billion since Q3 2016, an increase of 11.8%, year-over-year.
The map below shows the percentage of homes by state with a mortgage and positive equity. (The states in gray have insufficient data to report.)

Significant Equity Is on The Rise
Frank Nothaft, Chief Economist at CoreLogic, believes this is great news for the “housing market.” He went on to say:
“Homeowner equity increased by almost $871 billion over the last 12 months, the largest increase in more than three years. This increase is primarily a reflection of rising home prices, which drives up home values, leading to an increase in home equity positions and supporting consumer spending.”
Of the 95.1% of homeowners with positive equity in the U.S., 82.9% have significant equity (defined as more than 20%). This means that more than three out of four homeowners with a mortgage could use the equity in their current home to purchase a new home now.
The map below shows the percentage of homes by state with a mortgage and significant equity.

Bottom Line
If you are one of the many homeowners who are unsure of how much equity you have in your home and are curious about your ability to move, let’s meet up to evaluate your situation.
Hi, I am Chrysti. I am a Fair Oaks based REALTOR® and Real Estate Advisor who believes real estate works best when it feels human, calm, and supported. If you like a big sister energy kind of guide, you and I will get along just fine.
I have lived in the Sacramento and Placer foothill communities for more than three decades, and I care deeply about the people and stories here. I created I Love Fair Oaks because this town has a heartbeat, and I wanted a place to celebrate it. That work spills naturally into real estate because helping people move through life with clarity and confidence is what I love most.
My background includes real estate, mortgages, title, photography, design, and marketing. All of that helps me protect my clients and make the process feel as smooth as possible. When things get confusing, I explain. When things get stressful, I steady the room. When you need someone in your corner, I am right there with you.
I serve Fair Oaks, Orangevale, Carmichael, Gold River, Folsom, Granite Bay, Roseville, Rocklin, and the foothill communities that surround them. If you are planning a move or exploring what is next, I am here to help you find your way.
Contact916 320 2663c@chrystitovani.comCA DRE 01118449eXp Realty of California

It’s clear the 2022 housing market has been defined by rising mortgage rates. With rates on the rise, it’s also become more costly to purchase a home. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR): “Compared to one year ago, the monthly mortgage payment rose to $1,944 from $1,265, an increase of 53.7%.” If you’re […]
If you’re thinking of selling your house, it may be because you’ve heard prices are rising, listings are going fast, and sellers are getting multiple offers on their homes. But why are conditions so good for sellers today? And what can you expect when you move? To help answer both of those questions, let’s turn […]
With higher mortgage rates and moderating buyer demand, conditions in the housing market are different today. And if you’re thinking of selling your house, it’s important to understand how the market has changed and what that means for you. The best way to make sure you’re in the know is to work with a trusted […]