What is Equity Release?

Equity release refers to a range of products that could let you access the equity (cash) tied up in your home if you are over the age of 55. You can take the money you release as a lump-sum or, in several smaller amounts or as a combination of both.

If you want to explore equity release further, then we believe your family should be involved.

If equity release is not right for you and your family, we’ll tell you.

The Giraffe guarantee: If equity release is not right for you and your family, we’ll tell you.

How does equity release work?

Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 to 85 to release the equity locked up in their home and turn this into tax-free cash without the need to sell or downsize.

The older you are the more tax-free cash you are likely to be able to release.

How can I take the money?

There are two main ways to take your money – either as a lump-sum or as a drawdown.

A lump-sum product means you take a payment of equity in one go. Drawdown allows you to take up to a set amount as and when you need it the most or in regular amounts.

What are the products?
There are two main products – Lifetime Mortgage or Home Reversion Plan.

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A lifetime mortgage is where you retain ownership of the property. The loan is repaid at the end of the term, together with any interest that has rolled up if you decide not to service the interest payments.

A home reversion plan is where the lender buys up to 100% of your home and rents it back to you for a nominal fee e.g. £1 per month. However, you lose ownership of up to 100% the property and may have zero equity left.

What do people use equity release money for?
There are a range of reasons why people want to benefit from equity release.

  • Boosting your income in retirement
  • Helping your children financially
  • Carrying out home improvements
  • Clearing interest-only mortgages
  • Grandchildren’s university fees
  • Booking that once-in-a-lifetime holiday or just enjoying life

There are so many areas of life where having some extra cash could really help you and your family.

What Happens Next?

  1. Use our calculator to see how much you could potentially release from your home.
  2. Call Giraffe Equity Release on 0800 622 6414.
  3. Visit one of our offices or we can come to you for a FREE initial consultation.
  4. Have an interview (face-to-face or on the phone) with one of our qualified advisors.
  1. We will source the right product for you from across the whole market.
  2. We start the application process and a valuation of your property is instructed by the chosen provider.
  3. Application is approved by the provider and your solicitor.
  4. The funds are released for you to use.