Homeowner equity is property value less the sum of all debts secured by the property. If equity is negative, it means that the debts exceed the property value.
Homeowners who think of themselves as tenants may not be much bothered by negative equity. As long as they make their monthly payments, they can continue to live in the house, just as if they were tenants. But homeowners with a homeowner -- rather than a tenant -- mentality are looking to a future in which they build equity. more...
