Firstly, equity release can be split into two subcategories. Home Reversion plans and Lifetime mortgages. Most people who take out equity release use a lifetime mortgage. This is a way for you to release money from your home without having to move. It can be seen as a loan that is secured against your home. The money released is tax-free. You can take the money all at once or in smaller amounts, as and when you need it.
With a lifetime mortgage, you will not have to make any monthly repayments. Interest is added to the amount you owe each month. This means interest is charged on the loan plus any interest already added. This is known as compound interest. So, in practice the amount owed will go up quickly over time, reducing the equity left in your home. Some lenders allow you to make optional monthly repayments which are designed to reduce the interest payments.
The lifetime mortgage is usually repaid from the sale of your home when the last surviving borrower dies or goes into long-term care. Remember, if you decide to repay the lifetime mortgage before this there may be early repayment charges.
You have no restriction on what you do with the money. The money is tax-free. Popular choices are-
The list is endless.
Entering into an equity release plan could change your life for the better, but it is a long-term financial commitment. You must take professional independent financial advice. We are Independent Financial Advisers and members of The Equity Release Council. To find out if a lifetime mortgage is right for you why not contact us today.
The choice is yours. Whatever works best for you.
Our Head Office are located at-
Finally, if you have any thoughts or comments about this article, “Interest only mortgage? We may be able to help.”, then please let us know.