Other Services
Equity Release
Equity release allows older homeowners to access some of the value in their home. It is a significant, long-term decision that is not right for everyone.
Overview
What is equity release?
Equity release is a group of later life products that allow homeowners, usually aged 55 or over, to access some of the value tied up in their property without moving. The two main types are a lifetime mortgage and a home reversion plan.
A lifetime mortgage is a loan secured against your home. Interest is typically added to the balance and rolls up over time, so the amount owed can grow considerably. The loan is usually repaid when you die or move into long-term care. A home reversion plan involves selling all or part of your home to a provider in return for a lump sum or regular income, while retaining the right to live there.
Who might this be suitable for?
- Homeowners typically aged 55 or over
- Clients who have considered alternatives such as downsizing
- Households who wish to discuss options with family involved
- Clients seeking clear information rather than a sales conversation
How Help to Lend can help
- 01We explore alternatives first, including downsizing, savings and other borrowing.
- 02We explain how interest roll-up affects the amount owed over time.
- 03We encourage family involvement in the discussion where you wish.
- 04We refer to a qualified later life adviser where specialist permissions are required.
Assessment
What may lenders and providers consider?
Effect on your estate
Equity release reduces the value of your estate and what you may leave to beneficiaries.
Means tested benefits
Releasing funds may affect entitlement to certain means tested benefits.
Interest roll-up
Where interest is not paid monthly, the amount owed can increase significantly over time.
Long-term commitment
These are lifetime arrangements and early repayment can carry substantial charges.
Criteria vary between providers and can change at any time. Nothing here confirms that a particular lender or insurer will accept an application.
The Process
How we work through it together.
- 01
Understand
We start with a conversation about your circumstances, plans and objectives.
- 02
Assess
We review your position, affordability and mortgage requirements in detail.
- 03
Recommend
We identify suitable mortgage and protection options and explain the reasoning.
- 04
Apply
We prepare and manage the application, liaising with the lender on your behalf.
- 05
Progress
We keep the case moving and keep you informed at every stage.
- 06
Complete
We support you through to completion and remain available afterwards.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Related
Related expertise
Speak to an adviser about your circumstances.
We'll explain the options clearly and tell you what to prepare, with no obligation.
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