Equity Release: Unlock Money From Your Home
Over 55s | Tax Free Cash | No Obligation | Whole of Market
Are you over 55 and wondering how to make your retirement more comfortable?
Equity release could help you access the money tied up in your home – without having to move.
We’re here to explain Lifetime Mortgages clearly, in plain English. There’s no pressure, no obligation, and our advice is completely free.
Get Your Personalised Equity Release Quotation Now
🛡️ Why Choose Acorn.finance for Equity Release?
Completely Independent & Whole of Market
We search the entire market to find the right solution for you – not just a handful of providers. We work for you, not the lenders.
Free Consultation with No Obligation
Talk to us with absolutely no commitment. Our advice costs you nothing, and you're free to walk away at any time.
Specialists in Later Life Lending
We've been helping people with their finances since 1997. Our advisors understand the unique needs of retirement planning.
Clear, Jargon-Free Advice
We explain everything in straightforward language. No confusing terms, no small print surprises.
Your Family Can Be Involved
We encourage you to bring family members to appointments. Many of our clients find it helpful to have adult children involved in the decision.
What Is Equity Release?
Equity release allows you to access some of the money (equity) in your home while continuing to live there. You don’t make monthly repayments – the loan is repaid when your home is eventually sold, typically when you pass away or move into long-term care.
Two Main Types:
Lifetime Mortgage (Most Common)
- Borrow a lump sum or receive regular payments
- You keep owning your home
- Interest is usually added to the loan (rolled up)
- You can make voluntary payments if you wish
Find out more from the Equity Release Council
Home Reversion Plan – At Acorn.mortgage we do not offer these.
- Sell part or all of your home to a provider
- Continue living there rent-free
- Receive a lump sum or regular income
- Less common than lifetime mortgages
Find out more from the Equity Release Council
Is Equity Release Safe?
Yes, when arranged properly with a regulated advisor. Here’s why:
No Negative Equity Guarantee
You’ll never owe more than your home is worth. This is a legal requirement for all Equity Release Council members.
Right to Stay for Life
The lender will never ask you to leave your home, no matter how long you have the Equity Release Mortgage.
Fixed Rates
Your interest rate won’t suddenly increase unexpectedly.
Regulated by the FCA
All equity release advisors must be authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Independent Legal Advice Required
You must have your solicitor review everything before proceeding.
Could I Lose My Home?
No, not if you follow the terms of your plan. The main conditions are:
- You must continue to live in the property as your main home
- You must maintain the property in good condition
- You must keep buildings insurance in place
These are straightforward requirements that most homeowners already meet.
What Could You Use the Money For?
Our clients use equity release to improve their quality of life in retirement:
Home Improvements
Make your home more comfortable and safe for the years ahead. Install a walk-in shower, upgrade your heating system, or create a ground-floor bedroom.
Clear Existing Debts
Pay off your remaining mortgage, credit cards, or loans. Reduce your monthly outgoings and ease financial stress.
Help Your Family
Support your children or grandchildren with house deposits, education costs, or weddings. Give them a 'living inheritance' while you're here to see them enjoy it.
Enjoy Your Retirement
Take that dream holiday, buy a new car, or simply have more money each month for everyday comfort and peace of mind.
Pay for Care
Fund home care support, mobility aids, or adaptations that allow you to stay independent in your own home for longer.
Supplement Your Pension
Top up your retirement income to cover rising living costs or unexpected expenses.
How Much Could You Release?
The amount depends on:
- Your age (the older you are, the more you can typically release)
- Your property value (higher value = more equity available)
- Your health (some plans offer more if you have health conditions)
- Outstanding mortgage (this would need to be paid off first)
Typical amounts range from £10,000 to £500,000+
Most people can release between 20% and 60% of their home’s value.
No Income Checks
No Credit Search
No Hard Sell
Clear Advice
Understanding the Costs of an Equity Release Mortgage
What You'll Pay:
Interest on Your Loan
- Typically between 5.5% and 8% per year
- Usually “rolled up” (added to the loan rather than paid monthly)
- We’ll show you exactly how this grows over time
Arrangement Fees
- Between £0 – £3,000 depending on the product
- Often added to the loan (so no upfront payment needed)
Legal Fees
- You need your own solicitor (legal requirement)
- Typically £500 – £1,500
- Can usually be added to the loan
Valuation Fee
- Around £300 – £600 but generally paid for by the lender
- Required to confirm your property value
Optional: Make Voluntary Payments
Many modern plans allow you to:
- Make monthly interest payments (to stop the loan growing)
- Make ad-hoc repayments (up to 10% per year typically)
- Repay fully early (though charges may apply)
This gives you control over how much interest builds up.
Questions? We're Here to Help
Friendly, patient advisors ready to explain everything clearly. Click here to get your free quote or call us on 07480 801662 to arrange your personal consultation.
Important Considerations
We believe in complete transparency. Here are the potential downsides to consider:
Your Estate Will Be Smaller
The loan plus interest is repaid from your estate when your home is sold. This means less inheritance for your family.
Solution: Discuss this openly with your family. Many find that the benefits during your lifetime outweigh this concern.
May Affect State Benefits
Receiving a lump sum could impact means-tested benefits like Pension Credit or Council Tax Support.
Solution: We’ll check this with you before proceeding and suggest alternatives if needed.
Early Repayment Charges
If you repay early (by moving house or changing your mind), charges may apply – often between 5% and 15% of the amount borrowed.
Solution: Choose plans with portable options (move the loan to a new property) or lower early repayment charges.
Interest Compounds Over Time
Even at modest rates, compound interest means the debt can grow significantly over 15-20+ years.
Solution: We’ll show you projections so you understand exactly how the loan grows. Consider making voluntary interest payments.
Alternative Options May Be Better
Equity release isn’t right for everyone. Sometimes other options are more suitable.
Solution: As independent advisors, we’ll explore all alternatives with you first, including downsizing, pension advice, or state benefits.
Alternatives to an Equity Release Mortgage
Later Life Mortgages
Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) Mortgages allow you to borrow against your home while making monthly interest payments. Unlike equity release, the debt doesn’t grow over time, and you retain full ownership of your property.
Best for: Those with a regular income (pension, investments) who can afford monthly payments and want to avoid compound interest.
Key benefits:
- No compound interest rolling up
- Typically lower interest rates than equity release
- Retain 100% ownership of your home
- More equity preserved for beneficiaries
Downsizing
Moving to a smaller, less expensive property can free up significant capital without taking on any debt.
Best for: Those ready for a lifestyle change, looking to reduce maintenance costs, or wanting to move closer to family.
Key benefits:
- No debt or interest charges
- Release potentially substantial sums
- Lower ongoing costs (bills, maintenance, council tax)
- Fresh start in a more manageable home
Considerations: Moving costs, emotional attachment to your home, and the time and effort involved in relocating.
Family Support
Some families are able to provide financial support through gifts or loans, allowing you to access funds without formal lending.
Best for: Those with family members in a position to help and willing to have open conversations about finances.
Key benefits:
- No interest charges (or family-agreed rates)
- Flexible repayment terms
- Keep full ownership of your home
Considerations: Ensure proper documentation to avoid misunderstandings. Consider the tax implications of large gifts and how this might affect family dynamics or inheritance plans.
Budgeting and Benefits Review
Sometimes the solution isn’t releasing more money – it’s making better use of what you already have.
Best for: Everyone! It costs nothing and you might be surprised what you find.
Worth exploring:
- Unclaimed benefits (Pension Credit, Council Tax Reduction, Attendance Allowance)
- Better deals on utilities, insurance, and subscriptions
- Grants for home improvements or heating costs
- Free financial guidance services
Remortgaging Your Existing Property
If you have an existing mortgage with significant equity built up, remortgaging to release some capital might be more cost-effective than equity release.
Best for: Those still of working age or with sufficient income to meet affordability criteria for a traditional mortgage.
Key benefits:
- Typically lower interest rates
- More lender options
- Greater flexibility in loan terms
Making the Right Choice
Every situation is different. What works for your neighbour or friend might not be right for you. The key factors to consider include:
- Your age and health – Some products have minimum age requirements
- Your income – Can you afford monthly payments on a RIO mortgage?
- Your property value – How much equity do you have?
- Your plans – Do you want to stay in your home long-term?
- Your family – What are your inheritance wishes?
- Your goals – What do you need the money for, and how soon?
At Acorn.mortgage, we don’t just offer equity release – we help you explore all your options. Our expert advisors will take the time to understand your situation, explain the pros and cons of each approach, and help you make an informed decision that’s right for you.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether equity release is right for you or not, we’re here to help you find the best solution for your needs. Get in touch today for a no-obligation conversation about your options.
Our experienced advisors will:
- Listen to your goals and circumstances
- Explain all available options clearly
- Provide personalised recommendations
- Support you through every step of the process
There’s no obligation, no pressure – just honest, expert advice to help you make the right decision.
Frequently Asked Questions on Equity Release Mortgages
Will I still own my own my own home?
Yes, you will still own your home.
This is a key feature of the most common type of equity release, the Lifetime Mortgage (LTM). With an LTM, you take out a loan secured against your home, but you retain full ownership. You can live in it until you die or move into long-term care.
Can I lose my house?
No, you cannot lose your house
All ERC-approved plans include a "No Negative Equity Guarantee" . This guarantee ensures that when your home is sold, you or your estate will never owe more than the property is worth, even if house prices fall.
Are there hidden costs?
No - With Acorn.mortgage all fees will be clearly explained
There are some fees payable, for the product, the advice, valuation fees and legal fees. Some of them may be paid by the equity release mortgage provider. Your advisor will advise you what you'll have to pay and if any other fees will apply.
How is the debt repaid?
Repayment: Sale of the Home
The loan, plus the rolled-up interest, is typically repaid from the sale of your home after you (and your partner, if applicable) have either died or moved into long-term care. The property is sold, and the net proceeds are used to pay off the lender.
Will this affect my eligibility for state benefits?
Yes, it can. Check with your adviser.
If you receive means-tested benefits (such as Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Council Tax Support), the lump sum or regular income you receive from equity release could increase your cash savings or income above the threshold, causing those benefits to be reduced or stopped. This is a critical point that must be discussed with your adviser.
Do I have to make monthly payments?
Only if you choose to.
Most Lifetime Mortgages are 'roll-up' plans, where the interest is added to the loan amount each month, meaning you don't make any payments. However, most modern plans offer 'Interest-Only' or 'Voluntary Payment' options, allowing you to pay off some or all of the interest to prevent the total debt from growing.