Why
Release
Equity?
Many retired people who manage on a small
pension and limited savings are also living in properties which
have soared in value in recent years, especially here in Norfolk
and Suffolk. An Equity Release or Home Reversion plan
could
enable you to release some of the value locked up in your home.
However, many are irrevocable arrangements, so careful planning
is perhaps more important here than anywhere else.
Whilst there are a range of Equity Release
and Home Reversion plans offering lump sums and/or regular
income, they all work on the same principle: they lend you a
part of your home’s value in return for a share of the proceeds
when you die.
People
raise money from their home for all sorts of reasons
-
to
make home improvements
- maybe get that conservatory built
-
replace the old car with a newer, more reliable
model
-
make the trips abroad they always promised
themselves
-
help their children or grandchildren onto the
housing ladder
-
supplement their income and
maintain their lifestyle
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In most cases you will need to be at least 60
years old, have no outstanding mortgage (or you will need to use
the equity release money to pay down the existing loan), and own
a property in reasonable condition. Certain exclusions apply,
such as mobile homes, properties above commercial premises,
smallholdings and properties with a relatively short lease left
to run.
Equity Release and Home Reversion plans can
be complicated products and are a major step for many people.
Your house is almost certainly the most expensive asset you own;
it is also your home, so think and
consider carefully
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