Taking out Equity in your Home

There are several good reasons for doing this...and a few pleasant surprises, depending upon the purpose and your credit standing.
 
Consolidate Other Debt
Pay off credit cards and possibly car loans - in fact anything with an interest rate higher than the mortgage rate you can qualify for.
Renovations and Home Improvements
Add to the value of your home by carrying out those long-planned improvements and use the equity in your home to do it.