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What is equity release?
Equity release is a way of accessing the money in your property. Normally, your property is an asset you can’t make use of unless you sell it. Equity release allows you to ‘release’ some of that cash from the property whilst continuing to live there. The two types of equity release are Lifetime Mortgage and Home Reversion.
What is a lifetime mortgage?
A lifetime mortgage is an equity release mortgage available to homeowners that lasts the rest of your life. When you pass away or go into care, the capital borrowed and interest built up will need to be repaid, by the sale of your property or in cash. You will always own 100% of your home with a Lifetime Mortgage, you’re simply borrowing against it.
What is home reversion?
Home Reversion means selling part of your home to a reversion company. You’ll get one payment into your account, receive it monthly or a mix of both. You can continue living in your home until you pass away or go into care. The property will then be sold, and you or your heirs will receive their share, minus what the reversion company are owed. The minimum age to apply is 60.
Frequently asked questions
How does equity release work?
Equity release is essentially like lending someone your property (or a piece of it). You take money in exchange for it and pay that back once you no longer own it.
You don’t need to worry about negative equity using a Lifetime Mortgage, as they have a ‘no negative equity guarantee’. Whereas Home Reversion is best used later in life, when you have no intention of paying off a mortgage or interest.
Can I still sell my house if I release equity?
If you are using a Lifetime Mortgage equity release, you can sell and move home, taking the mortgage with you or paying it off. With Home Reversion, you cannot move, as the reversion company now owns part of your property.
How do I apply for equity release?
The best thing to do is to find a legal expert who knows about equity release, to make sure it’s the right choice for you and your family. They can help ensure that you qualify, that it’s in your best interest and that you’re getting the best deal.
What are the downsides to equity release?
With a Lifetime Mortgage you need to consider whether you’ll pay back a monthly fee to cover the interest, or let it build up and be aware of whether the interest is variable or fixed. While Home Reversion limits you from moving unless you are going into a care facility.
How much will setting up equity release cost?
In order to apply for equity release, you’ll need both legal and financial advice, which could cost around £1000, depending on the complexity of the case. Your solicitor is there to ensure you fully understand the product and the conditions it comes with. A financial advisor is there to confirm it won’t leave you in a negative financial situation.
