A lifetime mortgage enables you to release money tied up in your home by providing a loan secured against the value of your property.
Lifetime mortgages are the most popular type of equity release plan* and are usually only available if you are aged 55 and over (Just Retirement Limited only offers equity release if you are aged 60 and over).
The amount you receive will depend on your age and your property’s value.
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Disadvantages |
You retain ownership of your home and can still benefit from any house price increases
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Since, with most plans, you make no repayments on the loan until you die or go into long term care, the interest accumulated on the loan can be significant and will reduce the value of your estate
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You can choose to take the money you release as either a lump sum, as regular payments or on an ad hoc basis when you need it
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While many providers offer a no negative equity guarantee that means you will never owe more than your property’s value, it can mean that there is nothing left as an inheritance when you die - although there will never be a debt left with your estate
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There are normally no repayments to be made
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A lifetime mortgage is a long term commitment - if you choose to repay the loan early, significant early repayment charges may apply |
Most offer fixed rates of interest, irrespective of what happens to interest rates
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The interest rate is usually higher than a conventional mortgage
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| Reputable providers offer a no negative equity guarantee which means you will never owe more than your property's value |
Charges for valuation fees, solicitors fees and advice fees may apply, as well as potentially other fees.
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Taking out a lifetime mortgage could affect the amount of means tested benefits you receive
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This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration.
* In the period April to June 2012, lifetime mortgages accounted for 99% of equity release plans. Source: The Equity Release Council (formerly known as Safe Home Income Plans or SHIP), the industry body for equity release providers. Figures represent 90% of the equity release market.
Useful linksJust Retirement's Roll-up Lifetime Mortgage
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