Cotality’s Q1 2026 Homeowner Equity Insights report highlights the continued strength of the U.S. housing market. Homeowners with mortgages now hold nearly $18 trillion in equity, while total home equity across all owned homes has reached approximately $34 trillion. The average homeowner with a mortgage has $311,000 in equity, providing a substantial financial cushion.
The report also shows that negative equity remains historically low, with just 1.9% of mortgaged homes (slightly more than 1 million properties) underwater. This is a dramatic improvement from the 26% peak seen during the housing crisis in late 2009, reflecting years of home price appreciation and mortgage principal paydown.
While rising mortgage rates and oil prices have slowed traditional rate-and-term refinancing, the strong equity position of most homeowners creates new opportunities. Mortgage professionals can help borrowers eliminate mortgage insurance, leverage home equity for debt consolidation when appropriate, and prioritize purchase lending. The report also encourages expanding referral networks with CPAs and financial advisors, who may be less rate-sensitive and can provide a steady source of new business.
Source : MBS Highway
By: Jon Iacono