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ERIC's guide to Equity Release Your free, impartial guide to Equity Release

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Page 1: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

ERIC's guide to

Equity ReleaseYour free, impartial guide to Equity Release

Page 2: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Contents

ERIC's guide to Equity Release Page 1

What is Equity Release? Page 2

Why should I consider Equity Release? Page 3

Am I eligible for Equity Release? Page 4

Is Equity Release the right choice for me? Page 5

More reasons to use ERIC Page 6

What are my other options? Page 7

What else should I think about when considering Equity Release? Page 8

What is an Equity Release plan? Page 9

At a glance: comparing the different Equity Release plans Pages 10 & 11

Case Studies Pages 12 & 13

How do I make sure I'm protected? Page 14

Solicitors Page 15

FAQ's Pages 16 - 18

Testimonials Page 19

ERICs simple steps to Equity Release Page 20

What next? Page 21

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 3: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

ERIC's guide to Equity Release

This simple, impartial guide contains everything you need to know about Equity Release

(the process of releasing capital from your home to provide you with extra cash).

Over the following pages we’ll talk you through it all – from the different types of

Equity Release available, through to the alternative financial options – and we’ll help

you make an informed decision about whether or not Equity Release is right for you.

Take your time, have a browse through the guide with your family or friends, and if you

have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us. No matter what your query,

ERIC’s friendly team of Equity Release advisers is always on hand to offer free, no-

obligation, impartial advice.

When you are ready we'll guide you through each step of the way to completion, just

leaving you to enjoy your new found wealth as you wish.

ERIC's advisers are able to help you:

By telephone on Freephone 0800 077 6885 Face-to-face at your convenience

By email at [email protected] Through a combination of the above

Page 1

Page 4: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

For example:

What is Equity Release?

Equity Release is the term to describe Lifetime Mortgages and Home

Reversion Plans.

If you’re a homeowner aged over 55*, Equity Release could help you to free – or

‘release’ – equity from your home, so that you’ve got extra cash to spend on the things

you want or need.

‘Equity’ simply refers to the difference between what your property is worth and any

outstanding loans, such as a mortgage loan secured on the property.

Your house is worth £150,000. You have retired and paid off all your debts, including the mortgage. Your equity is £150,000.

You bought your house for £100,000 with the help of a mortgage of £80,000. The value of the house is now £200,000 and the outstanding mortgage is £10,000. Your equity is £190,000.

It’s entirely up to you what you spend your equity on and how you receive it – you might

want a one-off lump-sum or you might choose regular instalments. We’ll discuss both

of these options in more detail later in the guide.

*For some plans, this may be older

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 5: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

Why should I considerEquity Release?

More people than ever are now considering Equity Release because of factors

including: cut-backs in state pensions, inadequate private and company pensions,

longer life expectancy and improved Equity Release regulations. For many people

though, they just want to improve their quality of life.

The most popular reasons for taking out Equity Release plans in recent years include:

Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements)

Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans, reduce outgoings)

Holidays, cruises and short breaks

New cars, caravans, holiday homes

Family treats (grandchildren’s school fees, gifts)

Improve retirement or enable early retirement

Private medical care or mobility items (scooters, stair lifts)

Visit family or friends overseas

Help children onto the property ladder or to reduce their mortgage

Reduce liability to inheritance tax

Page 3

Page 6: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Am I eligible for Equity Release?Each type of Equity Release plan has different eligibility criteria, so you must always

check the details with the provider. There are however, some general rules:

The youngest applicant must be over the age of 55 (for some plans this is as high as 60 or 65)

Your property must have a minimum value of £70,000, (some providers may require a higher minimum)

Your property must be in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland (excluding the Channel Islands and Isle of Man)

If your property is leasehold, the minimum unexpired term varies from provider to provider, but at least 75 years is required. It may however, be possible to extend your lease

If your property is ex-local authority, you must, in most cases, be outside the discount period

You must be able to raise enough money to repay any existing mortgage or

secured loans

Some types of homes are not suitable security for Equity Release plans, including

mobile homes, park homes, houseboats, and properties with agricultural or forestry

ties. Also, it is more difficult to arrange Equity Release plans on freehold flats (except in

Scotland), properties with commercial or business use, or properties over or adjacent

to commercial properties.

Did you know? Your property may also qualify for Equity Release even if you have a tenant living in it, or a younger relative or a carer living with you.

To find out if you or your property would qualify for a plan, call ERIC’s Equity

Release experts FREE on 0800 077 6885 – we’re here to help.

55today!

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 7: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

Is Equity Releasethe right choice for me?

Why should I seek specialist advice from the Equity Release Information Centre?

Equity Release isn’t the right choice for everybody and that’s why we’ve created this guide; so

you can read all the information and make an informed decision. Take your time, discuss the

options with your friends and family and, before you decide anything, make sure that:

You understand how it works

You understand the risks involved, not just the benefits

You have considered all the alternatives

You have spoken to an authorised and specialist adviser at the Equity Release Information Centre

It’s really important that you do this, as there is such a wide range of providers and plans

available that, without professional guidance, you could miss out on thousands of extra pounds

by choosing the wrong one. Also, at a time in your life when you may be financially vulnerable,

you need to be confident that your home and the Equity Release plan are both secure.

There are other important factors to consider too, for example the financial welfare of your

family or entitlements to state benefits, so we’ll address these in more detail later in the guide.

Page 5

Page 8: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

More reasons to use the Equity Release Information Centre:

We’re the UK’s longest established Equity Release specialist. Since 1985, our advisers have helped thousands of retired homeowners raise extra monthly

income and cash lump sums of thousands of pounds.

Free, no obligation consultation Our friendly professional advisers are at hand to help you assess whether or not Equity Release

is the right option for you. If you decide it is, you can then trust them to find the Equity Release

plan that’s best for you.

Independent, unbiased financial advice We are wholly independent and can therefore advise on and have access to all the providers and

products available in the market. The Equity Release Information Centre always acts in the best

interest of its clients, not being restricted by a panel or associated lenders.

Guarantees and safeguardsWe only recommend the Equity Release Council’s SHIP (Safe Home Income Plans) member

products or those with similar safeguards. This ensures that you (and anyone else named in the

agreement) will have legally guaranteed occupancy of your home for the rest of your life.

Exclusive deals with extra benefitsDue to our position and reputation in the market, lower interest rates, cashback offers and free

valuations, are exclusively available from the Equity Release Information Centre.

Specially trained Equity Release advisersOur advisers specialise in equity release mortgages and home reversion plans rather than being

general practitioner IFA’s or mortgage advisers. They hold the IFS or CII qualifications relating

to mortgage advice and the specialist qualifications relating purely to equity release. The Equity

Release Information Centre’s employed advisers are all members of the Equity Release Council.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 9: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

What are my other options?Equity Release isn’t right for everybody. That’s why it’s so important to get the right

advice before you proceed. If you decide to call ERIC’s advisers, you’ll get:

A comprehensive and confidential review of your financial circumstances

needs and objectives

A recommendation. This may (or may not) be that you take out an Equity

Release plan. ERIC will also recommend which type of plan would be most

appropriate for you and help you choose a provider: they are acting on your

behalf and in your interests.

The advice may be that you should consider raising money in other ways.

This may include:

Mortgaging your home by way of a conventional mortgage

Drawing on money in a savings account or encashing an investment

Selling your home and moving to a smaller, less expensive property

Claiming state benefits such as the state pension credit or the attendance

allowance.

Help with home improvements may be available from your local authority or the

Home Improvement Trust.

Each of these options has advantages and disadvantages, what matters most is that you

choose the solution that’s best suited to you and your individual circumstances. You should

think very carefully about what you want to achieve – our advisers are specially trained to

help you do this and will help you gather all the essential facts.

Page 7

Page 10: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

What else should I think aboutwhen considering Equity Release?

This brochure has covered many common questions about Equity Release.

There are just three more things we would like to mention:

Always consider the impact that Equity Release might have on your

entitlement to means-tested state benefits. ERIC’s advisers are trained to help you

with this.

If you have close family, make sure you discuss the recommendations with

them. Your decision may affect their inheritance or indeed the support

they give you now.

Make sure that you feel comfortable with the safeguards being offered with

an Equity Release plan. We have described the safeguards that come with

a recommendation from the Equity Release Information Centre in the previous

section.

Never invest in any product you don’t understand

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 11: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

What is an Equity Release plan?

Equity Release plans all essentially do the same thing by different means, which is,

release cash (equity) that is tied up in your property.

There are two main types of Equity Release plans:

Lifetime Mortgage Plans

Home Reversion Plans

You’ll find a range of competing lenders providing these plans,

each of which will vary in terms of what it can offer you. To

help determine the best

option for you, you should

always seek independent advice from the Equity

Release Information Centre. Tel: 0800 077 6885

Page 9

Page 12: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

At a glance: comparing thedifferent Equity Release plans

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

LIFETIME MORTGAGE: ROLL UP - LUMP SUM

Advantages

• You still own the property

• No monthly payments

• You can move to anotherproperty

• Regulated by the FCA

• Receive a lump sumpayment

Disadvantages

• You must pay off anyoutstanding secured loans

• The amount left tobeneficiaries will be reduced

• You may borrow a relativelysmall proprtion of theproperty value

• There may be charges forearly repayment of the loan

• You may lose entitlement tomeans tested benefits

Features

• You mortgage yourproperty

• No repayment date

• No negative equity

• Loan increase each year

• Option to make avoluntary payment

• Enhanced termsavailable based onhealth and lifestyle

This is a mortgage where you do not have to make any monthly repayments of the loan or the interest. Interest is added to the loan and becomes payable at the end of the plan.

LIFETIME MORTGAGE: ROLL UP - DRAWDOWN

Like the lump sum except you only take a small portion of the total loan, and the rest is available to you when needed. You only incur interest on the money you have "drawn-down".

Features

• You have a borrowingfacility

• You draw down cashlump sums whenneeded

• You mortgage yourproperty

• No repayment date

• Available from 55

• No negative equity

• Loan increase each year

• Option to make avoluntary payment

• Enhanced termsavailable based onhealth and lifestyle

Advantages

• You still own the property

• No monthly payments

• You can move to anotherproperty

• Regulated by the FCA

• Receive a lump sum

• You can draw lump sumswhen needed

• Interest only paid on partsof the loan "drawn" upon

Disadvantages

• You must pay off anyoutstanding secured loans

• The amount left tobeneficiaries will be reduced

• You may borrow a relativelysmall proprtion of theproperty value

• There may be charges forearly repayment of the loan

• You may lose entitlement tomeans tested benefits

Page 13: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

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Page 11

LIFETIME MORTGAGE: INTEREST ONLY

Advantages

• You still own the property

• You can move to anotherproperty

• Receive a lump sumpayment

• Regulated by the FCA

• The outstanding loan doesnot increase while paymentsare being made

• No repayment date

• Interest rate is fixed atoutset

• More chance of leavingmoney to your beneficiaries

Disadvantages

• You must pay off anyoutstanding secured loans

• The amount left tobeneficiaries will be reduced

• There may be charges forearly re-payment of the loan

• You need a regular sourceof income that will last intoretirement

• You may lose entitlement tomeans tested benefits

• Interest rates usually higherthan high street lenders

Features

• You have a borrowingfacility

• You drawn down cashlump sums when needed

• You mortgage yourproperty

• No repayment date

• No negative equity

• Available from age 55

Similar to the purchase mortgage offered by high street lenders. Interest is paid monthly on the amount borrowed. No repayments made on the capital. If payments are missed the mortgage will convert to a roll-up mortgage rather than be liable for repossession.

HOME REVERSION PLAN

Advantages

• No monthly payments

• Guaranteed occupancy forlife

• Regulated by the FCA

• Not a mortgage

• No interest

• Receive a lump sumpayment

Disadvantages

• You will not benefit fromany increase in the propertyvalue

• You will receive less fromthe reversion plan than anormal sale of property

• You may lose entitlement tosome means-tested benefits

• The younger you are, thelower the amount youreceive

• As you've sold yourproperty you cannot leave itto your family

• If you were to die shortlyafter taking out a homereversion plan, there willbe a disproportionatelyhigh loss to your estate

Features

• You sell your property

• You live in your property

• You pay little (or no)rent

• Available from age 65

This is where you sell your property or a portion of your property for less than the market value, but in return get a lifetime tenancy with no rent.

Page 14: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Case Studies

Roll-up Cash Lump SumMrs Jones is 65 and has a property worth £750,000 with no mortgage. She takes out a cash

lump sum lifetime mortgage of £100,000 with an interest rate of 3.89%*. The overall cost for

comparison is 4% APR. The interest rate is fixed for life and is added annually.

Mrs Jones dies 15 years later, by which time the total loan is £177,258. That's the original

£100,000 loan plus the accumulated interest. If her house had increased 1% in value per year, it

would be now worth £870,727. When the house is sold and the loan repaid Mrs Jones estate will

receive £693,469.

Roll-up DrawdownMr Phillips is 65 and has a large detached property worth £300,000. He takes a drawdown with

an initial lump sum of £20,000 and a cash facility of up to £80,000 available for up to 15 years.

The interest rate is 5.5%* and the overall cost for comparison is 6.2% APR. The interest rate is

fixed for life and added annually.

5 years later Mr Phillips needs an additional

£10,000. He dies 10 years later, by this time the

amount borrowed is £30,000. The total loan plus

interest that must be repaid is £47,394. If Mr

Phillips had taken the full £30,000 in one lump sum

at the beginning, the total loan and interest would be

£51,487.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 15: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

Interest Only Lifetime MortgageMr Bennett is 65 but still running his own business with no plans to retire. He has a property worth

£170,000. He takes an interest only lifetime mortgage of £20,000 at 5.2%*. The overall cost for

comparison is 5.6% APR.

After 10 years Mr Bennett decides to retire and chooses not to pay the monthly repayments on his

interest only lifetime mortgage, so he converts it to a roll up mortgage. After 10 more years Mr

Bennett dies owing £33,140. If Mr Bennett had chosen to retire at 65 and take the £20,000 as a

lump sum initially he would now owe £54,915.

Mr and Mrs Butler are in their early 70’s and their interest only mortgage is due to expire. Their home

is valued at £550,000 and they have an outstanding mortgage of £180,000. They have considered

downsizing to a smaller property, in order to allow them to clear their mortgage however they have

lived in their current village their whole lives and have done extensive renovation on the property and

do not wish to leave.

Mr and Mrs Butler explored re-mortgaging their property however found due to their age mortgage

providers where unwilling to lend against the property and therefore enquired about Equity Release

products.

A lifetime mortgage was recommended to Mr and Mrs Butler as this would provide a lump sum

amount to clear their mortgage with the option to continue making flexible monthly repayments, with

the possibility to repay in full the amount borrowed with future defined charges.

Mr and Mrs Butler are able to continue living in their much loved home and are in a position where

they can continue making monthly repayments to avoid interest roll ups of the loan.

* the actual rate available will depend on your circumstances. Ask for a personalised illustration.

Please note that these are only examples and the value of your house could go down or not increase at the same rate.

Did you know?

Ask ERIC experts always ensure that there is a no-negative equity provision

Page 13

Page 16: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

How do I make sureI'm protected?

You should always ensure that the firm you are dealing with, and the products it is offering

you, are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Equity Release Information

Centre is regulated, as are the products on which it advises and furthermore it deals only

with providers who are members of the Equity Release Council.

There are a number of bodies to help ensure that you are protected if you take out an

Equity Release plan:

Equity Release Council This is a trade body formally known as SHIP. It is dedicated to the protection of planholders and the promotion of Equity Release plans.

The ERC incorporated the SHIP standards and gives you a number of guarantees: • You cannot lose your home whatever happens to house prices, the stockmarket or to interest rates • The scheme must ensure that there will be no negative equity at any time • The scheme will guarantee that you (and your partner) can stay in your property for the rest of your life and you must have the right to move home without penalty, subject to conditions.

The Council of Mortgage LendersThe Council of Mortgage Lenders is the trade association for

mortgage lenders operating in the UK. Their members are

banks, building societies and other mortgage lenders. The

Council helps to develop mortgage lending policy and issues

guidance on best practice for those working within the industry.

The Financial Conduct AuthorityThis is a statutory body with legal enforcement powers. It is responsible for the regulation of

mortgage advice (this includes Lifetime Mortgages) and Home Reversion Plans.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

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Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

Solicitors

Your solicitor should explain the effect the plan will have on the value of your estate. It is

entirely your choice which solicitor acts for you.

Solicitors with experience of Equity Release plans:

Usually charge lower fees

Generally complete the plan more quickly

Are happy to sign a certificate certifying that you understand all the aspects of the plan (because they will provide a layman’s explanation)

The Equity Release Information Centre has a list of solicitors who are all very experienced in

acting for Equity Release applicants. Please note that these are not our solicitors: they are

independent and regulated by the Law Society. They must act only in the interests of their

clients. The client is you.

Page 15

All the solicitors on our ‘panel’ are members of the Equity Release

Solicitors’ Alliance (ERSA). This means that their fees will be very competitive

and because they are specialists, they can often process completions more

quickly. Member firms have many years of experience. ERSA offers an

independent fixed fee service, but the fee will be waived if the case does not

complete.

If you apply for an Equity Release plan, you must have a solicitor to act on

your behalf. The solicitor will not usually be allowed to give you financial

advice, but will arrange for the legal requirements to be met and will advise

you on the legal aspects of the plan.

Did you know? You should try to appoint a solicitor who is experienced in dealing with Equity Release plans.

Page 18: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

FAQ's

What is Equity Release?Equity release allows you to convert some of the equity in your property into a tax-free cash lump

sum or a regular income without you having to sell your property and move, and without the need

to make any monthly payments.

Will I be required to make a monthly payment?No, unless you choose an interest only lifetime mortgage. Interest only lifetime mortgage plans

may suit you if you have a regular source of income and can therefore afford to pay interest on

a monthly basis. The benefit of this is that the amount of the loan does not increase. It may be

possible to pay all of the interest or a proportion dependent on what you can afford. To discuss

interest repayment options ask ERIC on 0800 077 6885

Could I choose to make a payment?Yes. A number of lenders offer the option to make a voluntary payment each year without a

penalty. The number of payments allowed per year, and minimum payment will depend on the

lender best suited for your needs. Your ERIC adviser will discuss this further with you.

Can I use the money for anything I want?Yes, as long as it’s legal! Most of our clients use the money to pay off outstanding debts and

mortgages, make home improvements, buy holidays, cars, help family, or simply to make life a bit

more comfortable.

How much money can I raise?This is dependent on your age and the value of your property and varies between different

products. The minimum loan is generally £10,000 and you need to be able to raise enough to pay

off any outstanding mortgage plus any other loans secured on the property. The largest lump sum

will be available from a home reversion plan. To find out how much you could raise ask ERIC on 0800 077 6885

Can I live in my home for the rest of my life?Yes, you and anyone else named on the agreement have security for life.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

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Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

FAQ's

How long does it take to get the money?It can be as little as 3 or 4 weeks once we have received your application, but normally takes 6 to

8 weeks. If there are complications or if your solicitor is not familiar with Equity Release it may

take longer. We will keep you updated at every stage of the process.

What’s your best interest rate on a lifetime mortgage at the moment?Interest rates vary between the different plans and lenders. Like a conventional mortgage these

change frequently. Usually rates will be slightly higher than conventional mortgages but this is

because they’re fixed for the life of the plan.

Can I do Equity Release if I have a mortgage?Yes. As long as we can raise enough money on the Equity Release plan to pay off the mortgage

and any other loans secured on the property.

What fees are payable upfront? At ERIC we don’t charge any upfront fees and you are under no obligation to proceed at any stage

of the process. If you do apply for a plan you will need to pay for the valuation on your property,

usually between £200 and £300. Some plans may include a free valuation. All other fees will be

taken out of the amount released. The Equity Release Information Centre typically charge a fee

of 1.5% of the loan, which is payable only if your equity release plan completes, with a minimum

fee of £945. For example, a fee of £945 would be required if a plan of £50,000 was released, for

a plan of £100,000 a fee of £1,500 would be required.

How much will it cost me to set up?Set-up fees will vary depending on the chosen plan. There is normally an application fee, an

advice fee, a valuation fee and the solicitor’s fees to consider. Most of this will be subtracted from

the amount released so that there is very little you will have to pay upfront. Some plans may offer

special discounts, cashbacks, free valuations or help with legal fees; your adviser will explain the

Page 17

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FAQ's

Can I lose my house? Will it ever be repossessed?No. Both Home Reversions and Lifetime Mortgages have safeguards. If you take out a home

reversion you have guaranteed lifetime occupancy under the lease agreement and a copy is

registered at HM Land Registry. Provided you comply with the terms of the agreement, you and

anyone else named in the agreement has guaranteed occupancy for the full term of the lease. If

you have a lifetime mortgage and even if the total amount of the loan plus any interest exceeds

the property’s value your house cannot be repossessed as long as you have maintained it and

complied with the mortgage agreement.

Can I move?You can move at any time with a lifetime mortgage. With some lenders you can transfer the loan

to your new property or you can repay the loan from the sale proceeds. As long as it’s suitable

security, you then start a new loan which is secured on your new property. However, you should

bear in mind that these plans are intended to be long-term and if you move the loan may have

to be repaid with any early redemption charges and fees.The lease agreement from reversion

providers usually include a clause that allows you to move provided that the alternative property

is suitable security. Each company has different conditions so you should check these before you

go ahead with the plan.

If I die can my partner still live in the property? Yes. Anyone named on the lease agreement or mortgage has the legal right to continue to live in

the property until they voluntarily decide to leave it or until their death.

What other considerations should I make when planning ahead?ERIC work in partnership with Beneficial Trust & Will Co Ltd to provide services in support of you

getting your affairs in order .

This may include making your Will and Lasting Powers of Attorney to ensure the right people are

appointed to manage your affairs should you become unable to.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

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Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

Testimonials

I would just like to thank Samantha at the Equity Release Information Centre for the fantastic work on a

recent file.

We have dealt with a number of equity release providers and found them ok but the work done by

Samantha and the other team members really set them apart. Even as an experienced lawyer, equity

release is still a developing area and the work of the Equity Release Information Centre was superb.

They really did manage the job from top to bottom and worked seamlessly with us to ensure the

customers received the very best service.

Moving house is very stressful so getting the right advice at the right time is priceless.Thanks a million.

Gavin Wall

Solicitor/ Director of Conveyancing Expert

Immediate grasp of needs, rapid solution and a very good attention to detail. Also a friendly and ‘light

touch’ .

Mr. & Mrs Massara, Essex

Mark was very informed, professional and non-judgemental. Sound advice all- round.

Mr & Mrs Mitchell, East Sussex

Yet again I cannot speak highly enough of the service provided by Jenna. She is a treasure!

Mr. & Mrs Burns, Bristol

May I compliment you on an excellent professional service. Samantha was courteous, considerate,

professional and extremely helpful! I would not hesitate to recommend you to anyone. Please pass on

my sincere thanks to everyone involved.

Mrs. S Horner, Caersws

All your staff are "super", but I would like to especially mention Becky. She dealt mainly with me. She

is a credit to your firm. Nothing was too much trouble, no query too small for her to deal with. She has

been like a good friend to me being on my own having lost my husband at the beginning of the year.

Becky has made things as trouble free as she possibly could. Yes I would recommend anyone, be it

friend or neighbour, to your firm.

Mrs Lunn, Bournemouth

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ERIC’s simple steps to Equity Release

Step 1- Want to know more? Freephone 0800 077 6885 to speak to an adviser or to

arrange a free home visit.

Step 2- After determining your personal circumstances, aims and objectives, our

advisers will research the market and negotiate the best available plan for YOU.

Step 3- You’ll receive full details of the plan your adviser recommends, including their

reasons for choosing it. They’ll then arrange the best time for you to go over the documents

together and answer any questions.

Step 4- We leave you to make your decision and discuss your options with your family.

There is no obligation at this point and you have incurred no costs.

Step 5- If you wish to go ahead with the recommended plan, you’ll simply return the

application form and our staff will process it.

Step 6- An independent survey will be arranged on your property to find out the exact

valuation. This will be used by the lender to make your Equity Release offer.

Step 7- Choose a solicitor to act on your behalf, you may wish to use your own or one

of our recommended specialists, who can progress the work quickly and who are often

cheaper.

Step 8- Approximately 6 - 8 weeks after submitting your application the money will be

paid directly into your account by the solicitor or paid by cheque if you prefer. The solicitor

will take out any set-up fees owing from the amount released.

www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

Page 23: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

Call ERIC's helpful advisers FREE on 0800 077 6885

What next?

We hope ERIC’s Guide has helped answer some of the questions you might have about

Equity Release. If you’re still keen and would like to find out more, why not chat to ERIC’s

team of friendly qualified advisers now? It’s free to call and you’ll be under absolutely no

obligation to take any action. Independent, impartial advice – with no pressure.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Freephone ERIC’s advisers on 0800 077 6885 Lines are open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 5:30pm

Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm

or email [email protected]

Page 21

Page 24: ERIC's guide to Equity Release · Home improvements (new conservatories, central heating, double glazing repairs, garden improvements) Clear debts (mortgages, credit cards, loans,

"Equity Release is not a product to be sold but an option or opportunity to consider. Our role is to guide our clients with wholly independent, professional

advice that is recognised by our peers and customers, as the best.

Our commitment is to our customers and our goal is to be synonymous with Equity Release advice."

Equity Release Information CentreSuite 4, Chapel Allerton District Centre, Town Street, off Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds LS7 4NB

Telephone: 0113 228 4488 E-mail: [email protected] www.equityreleaseinfocentre.co.uk

The Equity Release Information Centre is a trading name of Cavendish Property Investments Ltd. Registered Office: Suite 4, Chapel Allerton District Centre, Town Street, off Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds LS7 4NB

Cavendish Property Investments Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA reference number 302589. Registered in England No 1946389