Securing a Lifetime mortgage

Navigating the intricacies of financial decisions later in life can be daunting, especially when it involves the value stored in your most cherished asset: your home. Lifetime mortgage has emerged as a popular option for many looking to release equity from their homes, providing an additional source of funds during retirement or for other significant expenses. However, understanding the ins and outs, implications, and options available is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll delve deep into the world of lifetime mortgages, exploring its nuances and answering key questions to empower you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions for your financial future.

What is a lifetime mortgage?

A lifetime mortgage is a type of equity release scheme available in the UK that allows homeowners, typically aged 55 and over, to release a portion of the equity from their property while retaining the right to live in it. The money can be taken as a lump sum, in several smaller amounts, or as a combination of both. Unlike a conventional mortgage, homeowners do not make regular monthly repayments. Instead, the interest on the loan accumulates over time. This interest is added to the loan amount, and the total is usually repaid when the homeowner dies, goes into long-term care, or sells the property. The homeowner retains full ownership of the property until then.

Will I qualify for a lifetime mortgage?

Whether you qualify for a lifetime mortgage depends on various factors. Here are the general criteria and considerations for lifetime mortgages in the UK:

Age: Typically, you need to be at least 55 years old, though some lenders might have a higher age minimum.

Property value: Your property should be of a certain value, which varies by lender but often starts around £70,000 or more.

Existing mortgage: If you have an existing mortgage or secured loan on your property, you might still qualify, but you’d usually need to pay it off (or substantially reduce it) using the funds you release.

Property condition and type: The property should be in reasonable condition, and some types of properties might not be eligible. For instance, a standard brick-built home is usually acceptable, but non-standard constructions might be scrutinised more closely.

Location: Your property should be in the UK, and some lenders might have geographical restrictions.

Debt and financial standing: While you don’t need to have a monthly income to qualify, lenders might look into your credit history and other debts.

Health and lifestyle: Some lenders offer enhanced terms if you have certain health conditions or lifestyle habits that might reduce your life expectancy.

How is the loan amount for a lifetime mortgage determined?

The loan amount for a lifetime mortgage is primarily determined by the value of your property, your age, and prevailing interest rates. Lenders will use these factors to calculate the percentage of your home’s value that you can borrow. Generally, the older you are, the more you can borrow. This is because, statistically, the lender may not need to wait as long for the loan to be repaid.

Additionally, the health and lifestyle of the applicant can also influence the amount, with some lenders offering enhanced terms if you have certain health conditions or lifestyle habits that might reduce your life expectancy. Typically, as you reach older age brackets, the percentage of your property’s value that you can release increases.

However, it’s essential to note that the exact amount can vary widely between different providers, so it’s beneficial to shop around or seek advice from a specialist before making a decision.

How does a lifetime mortgage work?

A lifetime mortgage is a type of loan where homeowners borrow money using their home as collateral, yet they retain ownership and continue to live in it as their primary residence.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

Borrowing against your home: Homeowners take out a loan against their property’s value. This loan amount is based on a percentage of the home’s current value, and the exact amount can be influenced by the homeowner’s age, property value, and other factors.

Retention of ownership: Even after taking the mortgage, the homeowner retains the ownership of the house. They can continue living in the property until they pass away or move into long-term care.

Interest accumulation: Interest is charged on the borrowed amount. Depending on the specific mortgage terms, this interest can either be paid periodically or, more commonly, it rolls up. This means the interest gets added to the loan, and over time, compound interest will accrue on both the initial amount and the rolled-up interest.

Repayment: The loan doesn’t need to be repaid monthly like a conventional mortgage. Instead, the total loan amount, including the accumulated interest, is repaid when the homeowner dies or goes into long-term care. Typically, the property is sold, and the proceeds from the sale are used to pay off the loan.

Guaranteed no negative equity: Most lifetime mortgages come with a no negative equity guarantee. This ensures that if, when the property is sold, the proceeds don’t cover the loan amount, the remaining debt is written off, and neither the homeowner nor their estate will be liable.

Inheritance protection: Some plans allow homeowners to ring-fence a portion of their property’s value to leave as an inheritance for their family.

Flexible borrowing options: There are variations of lifetime mortgages that allow for drawdowns, where homeowners can take money in stages rather than a single lump sum or make voluntary payments to manage the balance.

Personal factors impact borrowing: The amount a person can borrow might be higher if they have certain health conditions or lifestyle habits, as lenders consider life expectancy in their calculations.

Types of lifetime mortgages

Lifetime mortgages offer a way for homeowners to access the equity tied up in their property without the need to sell or move. There are different types of lifetime mortgages to cater to individual needs, mainly comprising lump sum and drawdown plans.

Lump sum lifetime mortgage:

In a lump sum lifetime mortgage, homeowners receive a single, large payment based on the equity in their home. This model can be particularly useful for those who have immediate financial needs, such as helping a family member buy their first home, settling outstanding debts, or undertaking significant home renovations. However, it’s essential to understand that this type of mortgage accumulates compound interest on the full amount from the start. Though many modern plans allow for optional repayments, this can lead to a significant amount owed over time. Depending on the provider and various factors like the homeowner’s age, health, and lifestyle, one can potentially release up to 55.5% of their property’s value.

Drawdown lifetime mortgage:

For those who want a more flexible approach to equity release, there’s the drawdown lifetime mortgage. Here, homeowners can access their money in smaller amounts over time, as per their needs. After an initial sum is taken out, the remaining funds are set aside in a reserve. Homeowners can then make withdrawals or ‘drawdowns’ from this reserve when required. The primary benefit here is that interest accrues only on the withdrawn amount and not on the entire reserve. This method can result in less interest accumulating over the years, making it a potentially more cost-effective option for those uncertain about their future financial requirements.

Both types of mortgages have their advantages, depending on the homeowner’s individual circumstances and financial goals. Before deciding, it’s advisable to consult with a financial advisor familiar with equity release products. They can provide guidance on the best choice tailored to one’s unique needs and long-term plans.

What are the pros and cons of getting a lifetime mortgage?

A lifetime mortgage is a significant financial decision that offers various benefits and potential drawbacks. Here’s a balanced look at its pros and cons:

Pros of a lifetime mortgage:

Access to cash: Enables homeowners to release equity from their home without needing to move, providing funds for various purposes such as supplementing retirement income or covering unexpected expenses.

No monthly repayments: Many plans don’t require monthly repayments, making them suitable for those on a fixed retirement income.

Stay in your home: Homeowners can remain in their property and the community they’re familiar with, retaining the comfort and memories associated with their home.

Tax-free: The released funds are typically tax-free, allowing homeowners to use the full amount as they see fit.

No negative equity guarantee: Many lifetime mortgages ensure that you’ll never owe more than the value of your home, providing peace of mind.

Flexibility: Some plans offer the ability to draw down money over time, meaning interest is only charged on the amount you’ve actually taken out.

Fixed interest rates: Some providers offer fixed interest rates, giving clarity on how the debt will grow.

Inheritance protection: Certain plans allow homeowners to ring-fence a portion of their property’s value to leave behind as an inheritance.

Potential for larger loans: Some providers might offer more based on health conditions or lifestyle factors.

Cons of a lifetime mortgage:

Accrued interest: The interest compounds over time, which can significantly increase the amount owed over the years, reducing the amount left for inheritors.

Reduced inheritance: Releasing equity now means there may be less to pass on to beneficiaries in the future.

Early repayment charges: If you decide to repay the mortgage earlier than agreed, you might face hefty penalties.

Costs and fees: Setting up a lifetime mortgage can involve valuation fees, solicitor fees, and adviser fees, which can add up.

Impact on benefits: The released funds might affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits.

Loss of property flexibility: Moving to a new property can become complicated, as any new home must meet the lender’s criteria.

Locked interest rates: If interest rates fall in the future, those with a fixed rate might end up paying more than necessary.

While there are clear benefits to getting a lifetime mortgage, it’s not suitable for everyone. It’s crucial to seek independent financial advice and consider all options before making a decision.

How does a lifetime mortgage differ from a regular mortgage?

A lifetime mortgage and a regular mortgage are both ways to borrow money using your home as collateral, but they serve different purposes and have distinct features.

A regular mortgage, often referred to as a traditional or repayment mortgage, is typically taken out to purchase a home. Borrowers are required to make monthly repayments comprising both the loan’s principal amount and the interest. Over time, as these repayments are made, the amount owed decreases, and by the end of the mortgage term, the loan should be fully repaid. Regular mortgages are typically aimed at younger individuals or families buying their homes, and the borrower’s income and employment status are crucial factors in determining how much can be borrowed.

On the other hand, a lifetime mortgage is a form of equity release designed primarily for older homeowners, usually those over 55 or retired. It allows them to release some of the equity tied up in their home without moving. Unlike a regular mortgage, there’s often no requirement to make monthly repayments. Instead, the interest can roll up, accumulating over time, and the loan amount, along with the accrued interest, gets repaid when the homeowner dies, sells the house, or moves into long-term care. This means the debt can increase over time due to compound interest.

With a lifetime mortgage, the amount that can be borrowed depends on factors like the property’s value, the homeowner’s age, and sometimes health or lifestyle factors. A significant feature of many lifetime mortgages is the no-negative-equity guarantee, ensuring that the amount owed will never exceed the home’s value.

So, while both lifetime and regular mortgages involve borrowing money against a property, they cater to different life stages, have varying repayment structures, and serve distinct financial needs.

How do interest rates work for lifetime mortgages?

Interest rates for lifetime mortgages play a crucial role in determining how the debt evolves over time. When you take out a lifetime mortgage, you’re borrowing a sum of money against the value of your home. Rather than paying back the loan amount and interest monthly as you would with a conventional mortgage, the interest on a lifetime mortgage often accumulates.

The interest charged on the amount you’ve borrowed can either be fixed or variable. If it’s fixed, the rate remains the same throughout the loan’s duration. If it’s variable, the rate can change based on external benchmarks or the lender’s criteria. Because you’re typically not making monthly repayments on the interest, it gets added to the total loan amount. Over time, this leads to compound interest, meaning you’re charged interest on the initial sum borrowed and any previously accrued interest.

For instance, if you borrowed an amount and the interest was added annually, by the end of the first year, you would owe the original amount plus a year’s worth of interest. In the second year, you’d be charged interest on this new, higher amount. This compounding effect can significantly increase the total amount owed over time, especially if the mortgage lasts for many years.
It’s worth noting that some lifetime mortgage products allow voluntary or partial interest payments to manage the growth of the debt. This flexibility can be useful for those who wish to maintain more of their home’s equity or plan for inheritance purposes.

Can I still own my home if I take out a lifetime mortgage?

Yes, when you take out a lifetime mortgage, you still retain ownership of your home. The mortgage is secured against your property, but you continue to live in it and maintain all the rights of ownership.

The loan and any accumulated interest are typically repaid when you sell your home, move into long-term care, or pass away. Until then, the home remains yours, and you’re responsible for its upkeep and any related costs. It’s only after one of these events that the proceeds from the sale of the property are used to repay the mortgage, with any remaining funds going to you or your beneficiaries.

Are there any fees or charges associated with lifetime mortgages?

Yes, there are various fees and charges associated with lifetime mortgages. These costs can differ depending on the provider and the specific product you choose. Here’s an overview:

Arrangement or application fee: This is a fee charged by the lender for setting up the mortgage. It covers the administrative costs associated with processing your application.

Valuation fee: Before lending money, the provider will need to determine the value of your property. This involves a professional valuation, and there’s often a fee associated with this.

Solicitor’s fees: You’ll need legal assistance to ensure all the paperwork is correctly completed. Solicitors will charge for their services, which might include both their time and any associated searches or checks they need to perform.

Completion fee: Some lenders charge a fee when the mortgage completes. This is in addition to the arrangement or application fee.

Early repayment charge (ERC): If you choose to repay your lifetime mortgage earlier than its term or repay more than the agreed limits, you might face an early repayment charge. This charge can be significant, so it’s essential to understand any potential ERCs before taking out a mortgage.

Advisory or broker fee: If you seek advice from a financial advisor or use a broker to find the best lifetime mortgage for your needs, they might charge a fee for their services.

Surveyor’s fee: In some cases, if there’s uncertainty about the property’s condition, a more detailed survey might be required, which can come with additional costs.

Ongoing charges: Some lifetime mortgage products might have annual service charges or administrative fees, especially if you have a drawdown product and make multiple withdrawals over time.

Redemption fee: This is a small administrative fee charged at the end of the mortgage term when the loan is being repaid.

How can I repay a lifetime mortgage?

Repaying a lifetime mortgage can be done in several ways:

Sale of the property: The most common method of repaying a lifetime mortgage is through the sale of the property, either when the homeowner decides to sell and move or when they pass away or move into long-term care. The proceeds from the sale are used to repay the mortgage, and any remaining funds are returned to the homeowner or their beneficiaries.

Early repayment: Some homeowners choose to repay their lifetime mortgage early. This might be possible through savings, an inheritance, or selling other assets. However, repaying early can sometimes incur early repayment charges, so it’s essential to check the terms of the mortgage agreement.

Optional partial payments: Some lifetime mortgage products allow homeowners to make voluntary payments towards the interest or even the capital. This can help manage and reduce the overall debt over time.

Remortgaging or switching providers: If a more favourable interest rate or mortgage product becomes available, homeowners might consider switching to a different lifetime mortgage provider. This would involve taking out a new lifetime mortgage to repay the original one. However, fees and early repayment charges might apply.

Using life insurance or endowment policies: Some homeowners plan ahead by taking out a life insurance or endowment policy. The proceeds from such policies can be used to repay the mortgage when the time comes.

Repayment by beneficiaries: After the homeowner’s passing, beneficiaries might decide to repay the lifetime mortgage without selling the home, especially if they wish to keep the property in the family. They could use their funds, or in some cases, they might take out a new mortgage to repay the lifetime mortgage.

It’s always essential to understand the terms and conditions of your lifetime mortgage agreement and consider seeking financial advice when thinking about repayments.

What happens to my lifetime mortgage if I decide to move homes?

If you decide to move homes, your lifetime mortgage can typically be transferred to the new property as long as the new home meets the lender’s criteria. The lender will assess the new property’s suitability, considering factors like its value and condition. If the new property is of a lower value than your current home, the lender might ask you to partially repay some of the loan.

On the other hand, if the new property isn’t acceptable to the lender for some reason, or you decide not to transfer the mortgage, you would need to repay the lifetime mortgage. This repayment would typically come from the proceeds of selling your original home. If there’s a deficit between the mortgage amount and the sale proceeds, any protections like a no-negative-equity guarantee would apply.

Always consult with your lender and seek financial advice before making a decision to move homes when you have a lifetime mortgage. It’s essential to understand the implications and any potential charges or conditions that might apply.

Are there tax implications with taking out a lifetime mortgage in the UK?

In the UK, taking out a lifetime mortgage has some tax implications:

Income tax: The money you release from your home through a lifetime mortgage is considered a loan and not income. Therefore, you don’t have to pay income tax on the amount received.

Inheritance tax (IHT): By reducing the value of your estate (because there’s a loan secured against your property), a lifetime mortgage can potentially reduce the inheritance tax liability upon your death. However, this will depend on the total value of your estate and the prevailing IHT thresholds at the time.

Capital gains tax (CGT): If you decide to sell your home, having a lifetime mortgage doesn’t typically trigger CGT because your primary residence is usually exempt. However, if the property isn’t your primary residence or you have used the funds from the mortgage for investment purposes, you might have CGT implications.

Benefits: While not a direct tax implication, it’s worth noting that the funds released from a lifetime mortgage could affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits. If your savings or assets exceed certain thresholds due to the funds from the mortgage, you might lose access to some benefits.

As with any financial decision, it’s advisable to seek guidance from a tax professional or financial advisor to understand the specific tax implications for your circumstances.

How can I find the best deal for my circumstances?

Finding the best lifetime mortgage deal for your circumstances involves a combination of research, seeking professional advice, and considering your personal needs and goals. Here’s a suggested approach:

Understand your needs: Before starting, have a clear understanding of how much money you need, how you’d like to receive it (e.g., lump sum or drawdown), and what you intend to use it for.
Research Providers: Look into various lifetime mortgage providers. Read reviews, check their product offerings, and compare interest rates and features.

Use comparison websites: There are many comparison websites dedicated to equity release products, including lifetime mortgages. These can give you a general overview of the market and current deals available.

Seek professional advice: It’s highly recommended to consult with a financial advisor who specialises in equity release. They can assess your situation, provide tailored advice, and suggest the most suitable products for you. Additionally, many lifetime mortgage products are only available through advisors, so seeking their guidance can open up more options.

Check for accreditations: Ensure that any product or provider you consider is a member of the Equity Release Council. This assures that they adhere to specific standards and guarantees, such as the no-negative-equity guarantee.

Consider the costs: Beyond the interest rate, also take into account other fees and charges associated with the mortgage, like arrangement fees, valuation fees, and potential early repayment charges.

Flexibility: Consider products that offer flexibility, such as the option to make partial repayments, the ability to move the mortgage to another property, or the possibility to draw down funds in stages.

Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask providers or advisors any questions you might have. Make sure you fully understand the product, its features, and its implications.

Review regularly: Even after securing a lifetime mortgage, periodically review it to ensure it remains the best fit for your circumstances, especially if interest rates change or new products become available.

Seek legal advice: Before finalising any agreement, it’s a good idea to have a solicitor review the terms and conditions to ensure you understand all commitments and implications.

Remember, while finding a competitive interest rate is important, it’s also vital to consider other product features and guarantees that align with your personal circumstances and future plans.

How does a lifetime mortgage impact means-tested benefits?

Lifetime mortgage can impact means-tested benefits in the UK because the money you release from your home can be considered as capital or savings. If the funds you release, combined with your other savings, exceed certain thresholds, it can affect your eligibility for some benefits.

For instance, if the money from your lifetime mortgage takes your savings over £6,000, it might start to reduce the amount of benefits you’re eligible for. If your savings exceed £16,000, you could lose entitlement to certain means-tested benefits altogether.

Benefits that could be affected include Pension Credit, Council Tax Reduction, and Housing Benefit, among others.

It’s crucial to seek advice before taking out a lifetime mortgage if you currently receive or anticipate receiving means-tested benefits in the future. An advisor can help assess potential impacts and suggest strategies, like using a drawdown option, which might mitigate the effects on your benefits.

Is it possible to release additional funds from my property after taking out a lifetime mortgage?

Yes, it is possible to release additional funds from your property after taking out a lifetime mortgage, depending on your circumstances and the type of lifetime mortgage you have:

Drawdown lifetime mortgage: If you initially opted for a drawdown lifetime mortgage, you would have agreed on a total facility amount with your lender, from which you took an initial lump sum. The remaining amount can be drawn down in stages as and when you need it, up to the maximum agreed amount. This provides flexibility in accessing funds without having to reapply.

Further advances: If you’ve fully used up the initial amount or if the total facility of a drawdown plan is exhausted, you can approach your current lender for a further advance. The lender will reassess your property’s value and your age to determine if you’re eligible for more funds.

Remortgaging with a different product or provider: If your current lender is unable or unwilling to lend more funds, you might consider switching to a different lifetime mortgage product or a new provider. This is essentially refinancing your current lifetime mortgage. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential early repayment charges and fees associated with setting up a new mortgage.

Increased property value: If your property has significantly appreciated in value since you took out the lifetime mortgage, this might increase the amount of equity available for you to release.

Always remember that releasing additional funds will increase the total amount you owe and the interest that accumulates. Before deciding to release more funds, it’s advisable to consult with a financial advisor to understand the implications fully and ensure it aligns with your financial goals.

Can joint homeowners apply for a lifetime mortgage?

Certainly, joint homeowners can apply for a lifetime mortgage. When couples who jointly own a property opt for this kind of mortgage, lenders usually consider the age of the youngest applicant when determining the amount they can lend.

If one homeowner dies or moves into long-term care, the remaining homeowner can typically continue living in the home until they also pass away or move into care. This continuation is often ensured by standards set by the Equity Release Council for member providers. However, complications might arise if, for any reason, one of the joint homeowners wishes to be removed from the mortgage later on.

Legal aspects of joint ownership, such as whether they are joint tenants or tenants in common, can influence the process and eventual division of the property’s value. It’s always advisable for joint homeowners to understand the full terms and discuss their intentions before securing a lifetime mortgage.

What happens to a lifetime mortgage upon the death of the homeowner?

Upon the death of the homeowner, a lifetime mortgage typically becomes due for repayment. The executor of the deceased’s estate or the appointed administrator will usually arrange for the property to be sold.

The proceeds from the sale are then used to repay the outstanding loan amount, including any accumulated interest. If there’s any remaining money after the mortgage has been paid off, it goes to the deceased’s beneficiaries as dictated by their will or as per inheritance laws.

If the property’s sale doesn’t cover the full debt, many lifetime mortgages come with a no-negative equity guarantee, ensuring that beneficiaries aren’t liable for any additional amount beyond the property’s value. However, the specific terms can vary, so it’s essential to check the conditions of the individual mortgage.

What happens if I want to sell my house?

If you want to sell your house after taking out a lifetime mortgage, you’ll need to repay the mortgage from the proceeds of the sale. This includes the initial amount borrowed plus any accumulated interest. Once the mortgage is repaid, any remaining funds from the sale are yours. However, selling may trigger early repayment charges, depending on the terms of your mortgage agreement.

Some lifetime mortgages offer “portability,” meaning you can transfer the mortgage to a new property, subject to the lender’s approval and the new property meeting their criteria. Always consult your lender and consider seeking financial advice before selling to understand any implications and costs.

Can I rent out my property?

If you have a lifetime mortgage on your property, renting it out is not typically allowed under the standard terms and conditions of most agreements. Lifetime mortgages are designed for homeowners to release equity from their main residence. Since these mortgages are based on the property being the homeowner’s primary residence, renting out the property can breach the contract’s terms.

However, there are some exceptions:

Temporary absences: Some lenders may allow you to rent out your property for a short period if, for example, you need to move into care temporarily.

Permission from the lender: If you have a genuine reason to rent out your property, some lenders might grant permission on a case-by-case basis. It’s crucial to get this in writing to ensure you don’t breach your mortgage terms.

Specialist products: Some lenders might offer specialist equity release products designed for those wanting to rent out their properties. However, these products are less common.

How does a lifetime mortgage affect potential future care home fees?

A lifetime mortgage can influence potential future care home fees in several ways:

Assessment of capital: When assessing an individual’s ability to pay for care, local authorities in the UK consider their capital, which includes property and savings. If you’ve taken out a lifetime mortgage and released equity from your home, this cash sum becomes part of your financial assessment.

Reduced home value: The value of your home, minus any outstanding mortgage (including a lifetime mortgage), is also considered in financial assessments. So, the larger the lifetime mortgage, the less equity there is in the home, potentially reducing the amount you’re assessed as having for care home fees.

Deliberate deprivation of assets: If it appears that you’ve taken out a lifetime mortgage to deliberately reduce your assets and thus qualify for local authority funding, the council might still assess you as if you hadn’t taken the mortgage, a concept known as “notional capital.”

Deferred payment agreements: If you move into a care home and can’t afford fees without selling your home, some local authorities offer deferred payment agreements. This allows the council to pay fees, which are then reclaimed once your home is sold, either after your passing or when you choose to sell. Having a lifetime mortgage might affect eligibility for such schemes, or the amount available might be reduced due to the outstanding loan.

Choosing care: If you’ve released equity from your home, you might have more immediate funds available to choose and fund your care, potentially allowing you more choice in your care arrangements.

Factors to consider before committing to a lifetime mortgage

Before committing to a lifetime mortgage, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure it’s the right choice for your circumstances. Here are some factors to contemplate:

Interest rates: Investigate the interest rates on offer. Even small differences in rates can significantly impact the total amount owed over time due to compound interest.

Compound interest: Understand how compound interest works. The interest is added to the loan, and over time, you’re effectively paying interest on the interest, which can cause the loan amount to grow rapidly.

Future needs: Consider your potential future financial needs. You might need funds later for things like care costs, home adaptations, or medical expenses.

Inheritance: Think about your desire to leave an inheritance. A lifetime mortgage will reduce the equity in your home, potentially leaving less for beneficiaries.

Early repayment charges: Some providers charge fees if you repay the mortgage earlier than agreed, which can be significant.

Property value: If property prices fall, you might find yourself in a situation of negative equity, although many plans come with a no-negative equity guarantee.

Moving or downsizing: If you wish to move to a different property or downsize, check if the lifetime mortgage is transferable. Some schemes might not allow this, or the new property might not meet the lender’s criteria.

Alternative options: Explore other means to raise funds, such as downsizing, using savings, or other types of equity release like home reversion plans.

Means-tested benefits: Understand the impact on any means-tested benefits you receive. Releasing equity might affect your eligibility for certain benefits.

Professional advice: Always consult with a financial advisor specialising in equity release. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring you’re aware of all implications and potential issues.

Provider’s credentials: Opt for providers who are members of the Equity Release Council, ensuring they adhere to its standards for protection.

Legal implications: It’s also wise to seek legal advice to understand any implications related to your property and estate.

In summary, taking out a lifetime mortgage is a significant decision that can impact your financial future and that of your heirs. Therefore, comprehensive research and consultation with professionals are essential.

How do I find a trusted advisor?

Finding a trusted advisor for lifetime mortgages is crucial for making informed decisions. Here are steps you can take to ensure you’re working with a reputable professional:

Regulation: Ensure the advisor is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK. All financial advisors offering advice on lifetime mortgages should be authorised and regulated by the FCA.

Equity release council: Consider advisors who are members of the Equity Release Council. This organisation promotes high standards for professionals in the equity release industry. Members must adhere to a strict code of conduct.

Recommendations: Personal recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues can be invaluable. If someone you trust had a positive experience with an advisor, it might be worth considering their services.

Specialisation: Look for advisors who specialise in equity release or lifetime mortgages. This ensures they have the specific knowledge and experience you need.

Independent vs. Tied advisors: An independent advisor can offer products from a range of providers, giving you a broader view of the market. In contrast, tied advisors can only advise on products from a specific provider or a limited set.

Reviews and testimonials: Check online reviews, testimonials, and any case studies they might have. This can give you insight into other clients’ experiences.

Fees: Understand their fee structure. Some advisors might charge an upfront fee, while others might take a commission from the product provider.

Initial consultation: Many advisors offer a free initial consultation. Use this opportunity to ask questions, understand their process, and gauge whether you feel comfortable with them.

Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask about their experience, qualifications, the range of products they advise on, and their approach to advising clients. A good advisor will be transparent and open.

Professional networks: Some organisations, like the Personal Finance Society (PFS) or the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), list professionals in various areas of finance. These can be a good starting point.

Local vs. national: Decide whether you want a local advisor whom you can meet in person or are comfortable with national firms that might operate more over the phone or online.

Trust your gut: After all your research and interactions, trust your instincts. You should feel comfortable with the advisor and confident in their expertise.

Remember, taking out a lifetime mortgage is a significant financial decision. So, take your time to ensure you have the right professional by your side.