Lifetime Mortgage

This is where you release a lump sum of equity from the value of your property. The amount you release is tax free, and can be spent on anything you choose. There are no regular repayments to make as the amount that you have released, plus any interest accrued, is repaid from the proceeds of property once it is sold. Generally, this is when you pass away or permanently vacate the property e.g. move into long-term care.

Advantages

• Plans avaialble from the age of 55
• The cash you release is tax free and can be spent on whatever you like
• You continue to own 100% of your home, thereby benefiting fully from any future increase in its value
• There are no repayments to make
• The 'no negative equity' guarantee ensures that you can never pass on debt in your estate
• Plans are available that allow you to guarantee an inheritance for your family
• All plans are regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Disadvantages

• The size of the mortgage will grow over time
• Your tax position and eligibility fo means-tested benefits may be affected, as might your options for moving or selling your home in the future
• The amount that you will leave as an inheritence is likely to be reduced
• If you wish to pay off the plan early, you may have to pay an early repayment charge - these differ from plan to plan.
• You can't usually raise as much with a lifetime mortgage as you could with a reversion plan

Common Questions

• How will equity release benefit me?
• What types of equity release are available?