(4) ADD CURB APPEAL. Can add about 3-5% to the value of your home. Trim shrubs, plant flowers, paint your front door & pressure wash your siding & all done for just a few bucks. (5) SHORTEN YOUR LOAN TERM. Choose of switch to a 15 year loan instead of a 30 year loan. Higher monthly payments so be sure you can handle them OR make an extra payment each month or each quarter. JUST BUILD UP YOUR EQUITY!