 Money News on WTOP, 10 and 40 past the hour, brought to you by PenFed. Great rates for everyone. Back to Jeff Claybaugh. If you're a long-term homeowner, you may be sitting on quite a cushion. The reluctance of owners to sell has increased the number of years homeowners are staying put. Home equity is now a record $17 trillion. In just one year, homeowners have gained an average $28,000 in equity.