If you own a home in Conejo Valley, there’s a good chance you’re sitting on more wealth than you realize.

From Agoura Hills to Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and Newbury Park, homeowners have seen steady appreciation over the past several years. And as property values rise and mortgage balances shrink, equity grows.

But what does that actually mean for you?

What Is Home Equity?

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you still owe on your mortgage.

If your home is worth $1,000,000 and you owe $600,000, you have $400,000 in equity.

National data shows:

• 39% of homeowners own their homes outright

• 27% have at least 50% equity

• The typical homeowner has close to $300,000 in equity

In higher-value markets like Conejo Valley, that number can often be even more substantial.

Why Equity Matters in Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks & Beyond

Equity isn’t just a number on paper. In markets like Agoura Hills and Thousand Oaks—where inventory has been tight and demand remains strong—it can be a powerful financial tool.

Here’s how local homeowners are using it:

1. Move Into a Home That Better Fits Your Life

Maybe you need:

• A single-story home in Westlake Village

• More yard space in Newbury Park

• A smaller, low-maintenance property closer to shopping and dining

Your equity can become the down payment—or in some cases, allow you to purchase your next home in cash.

In today’s market, strong equity often means stronger negotiating power.

2. Upgrade Your Current Home

Not ready to move?

Many Conejo Valley homeowners are reinvesting in:

• Kitchen remodels

• Bathroom updates

• Outdoor living spaces

• ADUs for multigenerational living

Before starting renovations, it’s smart to talk with a local real estate expert who understands which upgrades add value specifically in Thousand Oaks or Agoura Hills—because not every improvement delivers the same return in every neighborhood.

3. Fund Major Life Goals

We’re seeing local homeowners use equity to:

• Help children with down payments

• Pay for college

• Launch businesses

• Strengthen retirement plans

With strong appreciation across Conejo Valley, equity has become a meaningful wealth-building tool for many families.

4. Create Options During Financial Hardship

Equity can also be a safety net.

Homeowners with strong equity positions often have the ability to sell and walk away with funds rather than facing foreclosure. In markets like Westlake Village and Newbury Park, where values have remained resilient, this flexibility matters.

Smart Next Steps for Conejo Valley Homeowners

If you’re wondering how much equity you have, here’s where to start:

Step 1: Request a personalized equity assessment specific to your neighborhood in Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or Newbury Park.
Step 2: Meet with a financial advisor to discuss how using that equity fits into your broader goals.

As a general guideline, maintaining at least 20% equity provides a healthy financial cushion. Many homeowners today are well above that threshold.

The Bottom Line for Conejo Valley

Your home in Conejo Valley isn’t just where you live—it may be one of your largest financial assets.

Whether you're considering moving, remodeling, downsizing, upsizing, or simply planning ahead, understanding your equity gives you options.

If you live in Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or Newbury Park and want to know what your home is worth in today’s market, a local analysis can give you real numbers—not estimates pulled from national algorithms.

What would you do if you had access to the equity in your home right now?