What is Equity Release? 

Equity Release allows homeowners over the age of 55 to release a lump sum from the value of their property without having to work longer, sell their property, downsize or even give up ownership, allowing them to enjoy their retirement. We have put together the 7 most popular reasons why people take out equity release:

1. Paying for home and garden improvements

This is one of the most popular reasons for homeowners to release equity from their property. According to recent lender research, 30% of equity release borrowers questioned quoted home improvements to the property and or garden as a reason to unlock equity. Home improvements can add value to the property and greatly improve quality of life.

2. New Home

People are often surprised to learn that you can use equity release to purchase a new home. This can be a second home but does not have to be.

3. To pay off an existing mortgage and debts

It may sound strange to borrow money to pay off another loan. However, it is a very popular reason to release equity. According to recent research, one in five people expecting to stop work this year will owe an average of £33,900. According to their research, the proportion of people retiring in debt is 19%.

A Lifetime Mortgage is different from an ordinary mortgage because you only pay off the loan when you die or if you need to move into long-term care, removing the need to meet monthly mortgage repayments. There are different options available to you in terms of how you pay the interest and whether you want to take one lump sum or drawdown more money later if you need to. A qualified equity release adviser can help you understand all of the options available to you. You can also get a Lifetime Mortgage with a ‘no negative equity guarantee’ to ensure that you never owe more than the value of your home.

4. Increase disposable income

So many of us are heading for a cash-squeezed retirement. However, as many homeowners have benefited significantly from rising house prices, equity release can be a practical solution. A tax-free lump sum can provide a long-term top-up to retirement income. Some people choose a draw-down facility which means that you can take further cash out as and when you need it. An equity release adviser can discuss all of the different options with you.

5. To help family members financially

We are often asked if it is possible to leave an inheritance for loved ones if equity is released from the home. It is possible and there are ways to guarantee an amount. Some people prefer to “gift” an amount of money now rather than leaving everything until after they die. They may release cash from their home in order to help children or grandchildren to buy their first home for example or pay university fees. Inheritance Tax Planning is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Your equity release adviser may refer you to specialists for help with tax and wills.

6. Holidays

How many of us dream of traveling the world when we retire? Ticking off destinations on the bucket list and perhaps visiting friends and relatives who live far from home. Many people use some of the money they have released to make these dreams a reality. When you release equity from your home, you can use the money for any purpose.

7. New Car

For some clients, a new car is high up on the list of things that they would do with the money raised from equity release. A modern and reliable new car is a big expense that is out of reach for many in retirement. We have helped to make the dream car a reality for some of our clients through equity release.

Need advice?

Equity Release is not for everyone, which is why you must take professional financial advice from a qualified equity release adviser to make sure it is a suitable option for you. Don’t hesitate to call us today, where one of our advisers will help you to understand all of the options, the benefits and the potential risks.