Equity is the difference between the market value of your property and the amount you still owe on your home loan. This equity is often accessed by investors to help finance an investment property, enabling an investment property purchase much sooner than if using savings alone. 

Knowing the basics of how to calculate the equity in your home can help with planning for the purchase of an investment property, both in terms of the timing of when this purchase could be achieved and also in clarifying what you can afford. 

Following are the basics of how to calculate the equity in your home and some points to consider when looking to access this equity. Of course, this article is intended as a guide only and you should discuss your individual circumstances with your accountant and/or financial advisor before taking any action.