What should you actually do with the equity you've built in your home?

In this episode of the Newport Mastermind Collective, Certified Mortgage Advisor Dat Nguyen and wealth advisor Richard Riva break down how homeowners can strategically access and use home equity—and when leaving it alone may be the smarter move.

Dat explains the differences between a HELOC, home equity loan, and cash-out refinance, including why homeowners with low first-mortgage rates may want to think carefully before replacing that mortgage.

They also discuss real-world ways homeowners may use equity, including:

• Using a HELOC for the down payment on an investment property
• Comparing the cost of borrowing against potential investment returns
• Using home equity to address high-interest consumer debt
• Helping children with the down payment on their first home
• Structuring family gifts or loans responsibly
• Evaluating reserves, risk, cash flow, and an exit strategy before borrowing

For homeowners in Orange County, Southern California, and throughout California who have built substantial equity, this conversation provides a practical framework for thinking about that equity as part of a larger financial and wealth-building strategy.

The goal isn't simply to borrow against your house. It's to understand when using home equity makes financial sense, what it costs, what the money will accomplish, and what risks need to be considered before you make the move.

Featuring Dat Nguyen, Certified Mortgage Advisor and founder of Everyday Lending Group, and Richard Riva of Wealth Management Solutions.

Educational purposes only. Mortgage, investment, tax, and financial strategies should be evaluated based on your individual circumstances.

Learn more at https://newportmastermindcollective.org

Richard Riva is a wealth advisor with Wealth Management Solutions and can be found at www.wms-llc.com.

Connect with Dat Nguyen at dat@elendingteam.com