Is Equity Release Right for Me?

Is Equity Release Right for Me?

For many homeowners approaching or already in retirement, one of the biggest questions is how to make the most of their home — not just as a place to live, but as a source of financial security.

If you’re considering a lifetime mortgage (also known as equity release), you might be wondering: is this the right option for me?

Let’s explore some of the key reasons people choose equity release, and what you should think about before making your decision.

Why People Consider Equity Release

• Repaying an existing mortgage

  
  

  Many homeowners still have outstanding mortgages in retirement. Equity release can clear these balances, removing monthly repayments and easing financial pressure.

  
  

• Supporting family

  
  

  From helping children with house deposits to gifting money while you’re still here to see them enjoy it, equity release can provide the means to support loved ones now, not just later.

  
  

• Improving lifestyle

  
  

  Retirement should be about enjoying life. Whether it’s home improvements, travel, or simply feeling more comfortable financially, equity release can help unlock possibilities.

  
  

Things to Think About

Equity release can be life-changing, but it isn’t right for everyone. Some important points to consider are:

• You’re unlocking value tied up in your home, which will reduce the inheritance you leave.

  
  

• Interest is added to the loan, and the amount you owe will grow over time.

  
  

• It’s a long-term commitment, so professional advice is essential to ensure it fits your circumstances.

  
  

Asking the Right Questions

Before deciding, it helps to ask yourself:

• Do I want to stay in my home for the long term?

  
  

• Is reducing monthly outgoings or repaying debts a priority for me?

  
  

• Would I prefer to help my family financially now rather than later?

  
  

If you answered yes to one or more of these, then equity release might be worth exploring further.

How I Can Help

As a specialist adviser, I provide high-quality, personalised advice on lifetime mortgages. My role is to help you understand all your options, the pros and cons, and whether equity release is right for your unique situation.

Equity release isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. But for the right person, it can provide security, freedom, and peace of mind in retirement.

👉 If you’d like to explore whether equity release could work for you, get in touch for a no-obligation chat.

A Lifetime Mortgage is not suitable for everyone and may affect your entitlement to means tested benefits, so it is important to seek financial advice before taking any action. If you are considering releasing equity from your home, you should consider all options available before equity release.

The interest that may be accrued over the long term with a Lifetime Mortgage, may mean it is not the cheapest solution. As interest is charged on both the original loan and the interest that has been added, the amount you owe will increase over time, reducing the equity left in your home and the value of any inheritance, potentially to nothing.

Although the final decision is yours, you are encouraged to discuss your plans with your family and beneficiaries, as a Lifetime Mortgage could have an impact on any potential inheritance. We would also encourage you to invite them to join any meetings with your Financial Adviser so they can ask questions and join in the decision, as we believe it is better to discuss your decision with them before you go ahead.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 05/09/2025