Am I Underwater on My Home? How to Check
By Kris Lindahl Real Estate. Updated 2026-11-10.
What underwater means
If your mortgage balance is higher than what the home would sell for, you are underwater. It is also called negative equity.
How to check
Find your payoff amount on your latest mortgage statement. Then ask an agent what homes like yours are selling for. Subtract. If the first number is bigger, you are underwater.
Why it is happening to more people
Many buyers bought at higher prices and with small down payments. Now prices have cooled in many areas, and bills have gone up. Foreclosure filings rose 21% in the first half of 2026, according to ATTOM.
What to do next
Do not wait until you miss payments. A quick call can show you what is possible. We will run the numbers for free.