Equity Release Broker
Thinking about equity release? At Mortgage Saving Experts, we specialise in guiding homeowners aged 55+ through the process of releasing equity from their homes. Whether you want extra funds for retirement, home improvements, inheritance planning or simplifying your finances, our expert advisers are here to support you every step of the way.
We’re here to explain your options and help you find the best deal
What is equity release?
Equity release lets you access some of the value tied up in your property without having to move. It’s a way to get tax-free cash from your home, via products such as a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan.
You continue living in your home, and the equity is paid out under agreed terms. Afterwards, the loan is repaid when you die or move into long-term care (or under other agreed conditions).
When should I consider equity release?
You might want to think about equity release when:
- You’re aged 55 or over (or meet the age criteria of certain lenders).
- You own your home (or have sufficient equity in it) and want to access cash without selling up.
- You want to supplement retirement income, repay existing debts, or make life improvements.
- You want to help family members, gift funds, or reduce tax/Inheritance Tax exposure.
- You prefer to stay in your home but need financial flexibility.
- You’ve explored other options (downsizing, pension, savings) and want to see if equity release fits your needs.
Our advisers will review your full circumstances and help you decide if equity release is the right path for you.
How long does the equity release process take?
Typically, equity release takes 4 to 8 weeks, but in more complex cases or depending on specific provider requirements, it may take a bit longer.
We’ll guide you throughout the process (from paperwork gathering, liaising with lenders, to legal advice) making sure everything moves forward as smoothly and as quickly as possible.
Do I have to release equity with just one product type or lender?
No. There are different types of equity release products and many lenders.
We’ll compare options including lifetime mortgages, home reversion plans, drawdown arrangements, and features such as “no negative equity guarantees.”
As whole-of-market brokers, we work with many providers (both mainstream and specialist) to find the best fit for your goals and financial profile.
Equity release made simple
Here’s how we guide you from first enquiry through to completion:
1. We will assess what you need
We’ll start by understanding your goals, financial situation, property value, age, health status, benefits, inheritance concerns, and any existing mortgages or secured debt. Different products suit different people.
2. Gathering your documents
To apply for equity release, you’ll normally need:
- Proof of identity (passport, driving licence)
- Proof of address
- Property details (value, type, condition)
- Mortgage or debt statements if you have outstanding secured debt
- Evidence of income and expenditure if required
We’ll tell you exactly what your chosen plan needs, so nothing is forgotten.
3. Understanding the options & receiving advice
You’ll be given clear comparisons of different plans: lifetime mortgage vs home reversion, fixed interest vs drawdown, cost implications, the impact on your estate and benefits, and tax/inheritance consequences.
Licensed, FCA-regulated, qualified advisers will explain all the pros and cons and help you choose what works best for you.
4. Submitting the application
Once you decide on the plan, we handle the paperwork, liaise with the lender, ensure all supporting documentation is in order, and work with legal professionals to protect your interests.5. Finalising the equity release
When your application is approved:
- A valuation may be carried out on your property
- Legal checks and due diligence are completed
- Once everything is in place, you receive your funds under the agreed structure
- We stay with you until completion to ensure all goes as planned
What are the benefits of equity release?
Releasing equity can offer several advantages when used carefully:
- Access to tax-free cash without moving home
- Increased financial flexibility in retirement
- Opportunity to clear debts or fund home improvements
- Potential to support family or inheritance planning
- The ability to remain living in your home
- Features like “no negative equity guarantee” give protection
Talk to us about your equity release options
Our equity release experts at Mortgage Saving Experts will review your full circumstances – property, financial status, inheritance goals – and recommend the best plan for you.
Speak to an adviser today to see if equity release might be right for you.
We’re here to explain your options and help you find the best deal
Equity Release Broker FAQs
Here are some of the common questions people have when considering equity release.
Will equity release reduce what I leave as an inheritance?
Yes. Because you’re borrowing against your home, the amount left as your estate will generally be reduced. We’ll help you understand how much less and see if there are ways to preserve inheritance where possible.
Can equity release affect my benefits?
Is equity release only for retirees who are debt-free?
Not necessarily. You can have existing mortgages or loans, as long as the value of your home (minus those debts) leaves enough equity. Many plans require any secured debts to be repaid as part of the release.
At what age can I get equity release?
Most plans require you to be 55+ for a lifetime mortgage, sometimes older for home reversion plans. Exact age thresholds differ depending on the provider.
Do I need legal advice?
Yes. Alongside regulated financial advice, you must obtain independent legal advice. This protects you, ensures you understand your rights, the contract, and the implications of the release.
How much will equity release cost?
There are several costs to consider: interest rates, valuing the property, legal fees, possible early repayment charges, and/or fees to the adviser. Some lenders offer features or fees that reduce or defer costs. We’ll help you compare real-cost illustrations to pick what’s most affordable.
Is Mortgage Saving Experts fully regulated?
Yes. We are fully authorised and regulated by the FCA. Our FCA number is 779662.
