Your Home Is Worth More Than You Think. Here's How to Put That Equity To Work

If you've owned your home for even just a few years, you're sitting on more financial power than you might realize. Property valuations across Lancaster County have risen significantly.

With many homeowners seeing assessed values jump anywhere from $50,000 to over $100,000 in recent years, an increase like that isn't just a number on paper. That increase is real, accessible equity, and it can fund the renovations you've been putting off.

One of the most common things Lincoln homeowners are searching for right now? Financing Home Improvements. From kitchen and bathroom remodels to basement finishes, renovation projects are at the top of minds across the county. Good news, you don't need to drain your savings to make it happen.

What Is Home Equity? Why Does It Matter To You?

Home equity is simply the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your loan and your home's value grows, that gap widens -- and it becomes one of the most flexible, low-cost financial tools available to you as a homeowner. At LincOne Federal Credit Union, homeowners can access that equity with a Fixed Home Equity Loan or HELOC with *$0 application fees, *$0 closing costs, and *$0 origination fees, now through May 31st, 2026. You can borrow up to *100% of your home's equity with a fixed home equity loan, and up to 90% of your home's equity with a Home Equity Line of Credit, giving you real flexibility to take on the projects that matter most.

Top Home Improvement Projects Lincoln Homeowners Are Tackling

Lancaster County homeowners are actively investing in their properties, and for good reason. Smart improvements not only make your home more comfortable and functional, but they can also increase its resale value. Here are the upgrades that Lincoln residents are searching for and focusing on most:

Kitchen Remodels - Updated cabinetry, countertops, and modern appliances consistently rank among the highest-ROI home projects in Nebraska.

• Bathroom Renovations - Walk-in showers, updated fixtures, and fresh tilework make a large impact for a relatively modest investment.
• Basement Finishing - Lincoln's older housing stock often has unfinished basement space that, when converted, dramatically increases livable square footage.
• Energy-Efficient Windows and Siding - With Nebraska winters being let's say, intense, energy upgrades pay for themselves over time through reduced utility bills.
• Outdoor Living Spaces - Decks, patios, and landscaping have surged in popularity as homeowners invest in their outdoor environments. Whatever project is on your list, your home equity can check them off, without draining your savings or resorting to high-interest financing.

Which Home Equity Product Is Right for Your Project?

At LincOne, we offer two ways to access your home's equity, and which one works best depends on your specific project:

Fixed Home Equity Loans: Best for One-Time Projects

If you have a specific project with a known cost such as a full kitchen remodel or a basement finish, a Fixed Home Equity Loan gives you a lump sum up front with a fixed interest rate, and predictable monthly payments. As of March 1st, 2026, rates start as low as 5.75% APR* with terms of 60 or 120 months. Rates subject to change.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC): Best for Ongoing Renovations

Tackling your home projects over time? A HELOC works like a revolving line of credit you can draw from as needed within a 5-year period. As of March 1st, 2026, Rates start as low as 6.75% APR.** Rates subject to change. Only pay interest on what you use, making it ideal for multi-stage renovation plans or projects where costs may shift along the way. From March 1st through May 31st, 2026, LincOne pays ALL closing costs* on both Fixed Home Equity Loans and HELOCs. That means $0 application fee, $0 origination fee, and $0 closing costs out of pocket. We also allow you to borrow up to 100% of your home's equity on a fixed loan, and up to 90% on a HELOC. Take on ambitious projects without running short on funds.

Don't Let Your Equity Sit Idle

Lancaster County's housing market remains strong heading into 2026, and with home values continuing to appreciate, your equity opportunity is ready to roll. Whether your dream is a straight out of magazine-worthy kitchen, a fully finished basement for family movie nights, or finally replacing those drafty windows, a home equity loan from LincOne can make it a reality.

Ready to Start Your Home Project?

Apply for a Home Equity Loan or HELOC here or stop by any LincOne branch location. Our advisors are here to help you figure out the best path forward. No pressure, just honest guidance. Schedule a virtual appointment or stop by in-person.

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Call us at 402.441.3555

*All Closed End Loan Rates include .50% off for automatic payments made from LincOne Checking Account. All rates advertised require an autopay from a LincOne Checking Account. With approved credit. $25 Savings account balance is required. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. LincOne will pay for ALL closing costs on fixed-rate and HELOC loan applications. The member is responsible for escrow payments and/or prepaid costs, if required, including property taxes and assessments, homeowners’ and flood insurance premiums, association fees/dues and assessments, and prepaid interest.

**No application fees or closing fees on new loans now through 5/31/2026, new money only.