Homeownership is one of the great dreams of many people, but affording it can be a challenge. One way to make it more affordable is to use your home equity. Home equity is the difference between your home's market value and the amount you owe on your mortgage. By tapping into your home equity, you can increase your buying power and make homeownership more affordable. Here are some ways your home equity can help you become a homeowner and stay within your budget.