sweat equity

American  

noun

1. unreimbursed labor that results in the increased value of property or that is invested to establish or expand an enterprise.

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Etymology

Origin of sweat equity

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Working with civil rights activist Bob Woodson, the two developed a program to allow people in public housing to put in sweat equity and eventually gain ownership of their units.

From Washington Times • Jan. 1, 2024

Viewers may notice how much this sounds like Steve's observations about home repair and sweat equity in the previous episode.

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2023

He said that Zhong owned 80% of their business while Kemker, who held the remaining share, provided sweat equity.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 7, 2022

And it’s good for a lot of kids who have put in a lot of sweat equity for one school but have hit a roadblock for whatever reason and could excel in a different situation.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 25, 2022

Burr suggests searching for a less expensive fixer upper where value can be added over time with sweat equity.

From Washington Post • May 25, 2022