For many homeowners, the equity they've built in their homes is one of the most powerful financial tools they have. Thanks, in large part, to home values rapidly climbing over the last few years, the average homeowner now has access to  over $300,000 in home equity , with many homeowners having even more to tap into. And, as other types of borrowing rates remain elevated, home equity rates remain low , which means that opting for a home equity loan is an increasingly attractive option for