March 27, 2026
Turn Spring Projects Into Lasting Value With a HELOC
You’ve heard of spring cleaning—a time to declutter and take care of tedious cleaning chores so we can breathe a little easier in our space with the changing of the season.
But spring can also be a great time to survey your space for bigger, more permanent improvements to your home that can ultimately add value to one of your biggest investments and provide a quality-of-life boost.
Maybe you want to entertain friends and family on a new or upgraded patio, install energy-efficient windows, add new floors that beautify your home and make cleanup easier, or overhaul your home’s siding.
But any big project requires planning on the front end to ensure your vision is carried out.
Here are a few helpful tips to keep you on track:
Start with a strict budget: Think through every aspect of the cost of your desired projects, such as buying materials, paying contractors, and other expenses. Also factor in unexpected costs and taxes. For instance, you could bake that in as 20% of your overall cost.
Survey your options: Start your search early enough to comfortably price out a sufficient number of contractor options, ensuring that you get a sense of the best prices available for the required work.
Consider projects that will add value to your home: Improvements such as installing new countertops, bathroom fixtures, and outdoor enhancements can add appeal that will make your investments worthwhile if you ultimately decide to sell.
If you determine the timing is right to set your big home improvement project in motion, you may need help funding the project.
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) from First Commerce Credit Union can make it possible to install the dream features that make your living space shine.
A HELOC allows you to borrow against the equity in your home, which is the home’s current value minus the amount you owe on your mortgage.
Tapping into the value of your home can provide a powerful financial resource. Plus, with a HELOC from First Commerce, you also get real financial flexibility. Pull only the funds you need and spend them on just about anything.
Our online financial education content library, SmartMoney Online powered by Enrich, can help you better understand HELOCs, when to use your home equity for home improvement projects, and much more.
Watch: 6 Ways to Use Home Equity
First Commerce Credit Union provides this content to inform and inspire. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee this information is accurate, complete or current. This information is not professional advice (tax, legal, financial, etc.) and should not replace your individual consultation with qualified advisors. Laws, rules, and personal circumstances can change, so please verify how this information applies (or does not apply) to your situation and location. All decisions remain your responsibility. First Commerce Credit Union and its affiliates and employees assume no liability for outcomes resulting from the use of this material.
Who We Are
Established in 1940, First Commerce is a full-service, not-for-profit credit union with locations across North Florida and South Georgia. We are a member-owned cooperative and committed to the communities we serve. Our purpose is to empower people to enhance their financial well-being by helping them achieve their financial goals – whether it’s simplifying their day-to-day finances, buying their first car or home, or building a great retirement. When you bank with First Commerce, you get a truly personal experience backed by 80 years of financial expertise.
