Equity release has gained popularity among homeowners who are in their retirement years and wish to access the equity in their home without having to sell it. The cost of living continues to increase, and inflation has hit double digits, making equity release a valuable solution for supplementing retirement income. According to a recent study*, around £3.3bn of the total £5.58bn released in 2022 was used to repay unsecured or secured debt as new customers focused on strengthening their finances as rising interest rates and inflation ate into retirement budgets.  

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common uses of equity release: 

Home Improvements 

One of the most popular reasons for using equity release is to fund home improvements. This can range from small cosmetic updates to larger renovation projects. By using the equity in their home, homeowners can make the necessary updates to their property without having to take out a loan or deplete their retirement savings. 

Gifting 

It can also be used for gifting to family members. This can be to help children with a down payment on a house or to provide financial support to aging parents. By accessing the worth of their home, homeowners can gift money to their loved ones without having to dip into their retirement savings. 

Debt Repayment 

Debt repayment is another common use of equity release. With customers focusing on debt repayment during the year spending on other uses of equity release fell – around 20% of customers used some or all of their property wealth to gift money to relatives compared with 21% the year before. By accessing the equity in their home, homeowners can use the money to pay off debts, such as credit cards or personal loans, and reduce their monthly outgoings. This can provide much-needed financial relief and help them manage their finances more effectively. 

Supplementing Retirement Income 

Finally, many homeowners use equity release to supplement their retirement income. With the cost of living continuing to rise and pension funds not always providing enough income to meet the needs of retirees, equity release can provide a valuable source of supplementary income. By accessing the equity in their home, retirees can maintain their standard of living and continue to enjoy their golden years. 

Equity release is a valuable financial solution for many homeowners who have reached retirement age and want to access the wealth tied up in their property. With its ability to fund home improvements, gift money to family members, repay debts, and supplement retirement income, it’s no wonder that equity release has become a popular solution for many retirees.  

*Key Market Monitor Q4 2022 Report 

Risk Warning: This is a lifetime mortgage. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. Check that this mortgage will meet your needs if you want to move or sell your home or you want your family to inherit it. If you are in any doubt, seek independent advice.