There are various equity release schemes which will allow you to release some of the value also known as the equity that is locked in your home. They allow you to obtain either a lump sum or a regular income or both without you having to move home. You will need expert legal and financial advice, if you are considering this option.
Equity Release schemes have earned a poor reputation in former years, but the regime is now much more regulated than it was. We would still strongly advise you to seek proper legal and financial advice before considering it.
At what point in the process is it legally binding?
You can withdraw from a sale or purchase up until the point contracts have been exchanged. Any deposits paid after exchange of contract will then by non-refundable. After contracts are exchanged you are then responsible for the property you are buying and should arrange suitable insurance from this date.
Equity Release costs?
There are all sorts of “hidden” costs including:
- Completion
- Arrangement or application fees
- Valuation fees
- Insurance
- Early repayment charges
- Legal fees
You should also consider the following:
- If your circumstances change in the future, will you be able to move home? Any equity release scheme will affect the inheritance you are able to leave to your children or grandchildren
- There could be implications for your entitlement to social security benefits
- Who will be responsible for repairs and maintenance of the property?
- Tax implications
How does Equity Release work?
To be eligible for any of the equity release schemes available, you must generally speaking:
- Be aged at least 60, own your own home, have paid off all or almost all of any existing mortgage over the property.
- Own a property worth at least £40,000.
- Own a property built out of brick or stone.
How long are local searches valid for?
A local authority search completed for a house purchase is valid for 3 months.
How long does the conveyancing process take on average?
We usually say 8-12 weeks for an average sale or purchase. Queries and concerns can often come out of the local authority searches which need further investigation and sometimes this leads to re-approval from the Mortgage lender. This can add further time into the process.
Is Equity Release right for me?
It may be that you could consider other options as opposed to equity release, such as moving to a smaller property or cashing in other “nest eggs”, such as premium bonds or savings.
What different Equity Release Schemes are available?
The schemes fall under 2 broad headings: “Reversion Schemes” and “Lifetime Mortgage Schemes”. Each type will have advantages and disadvantages.
What happens if we can’t produce certificates for work we’ve had done on the house we’re selling?
You can indemnify the work by taking out an insurance policy. This means that you can not be held liable for any future fault on the work that was done. We can arrange this for you
What is Stamp Duty and how much will I have to pay?
Stamp Duty is a tax levied by HM Government on a transfer of property. For residential single property ownership this tax is calculated at 5% for the portion of the property value between £250,001 and £925,000, 10% for the portion between £925,001 and £1,500,000 and 12% for the portion £1,500,001 and over. Duty may also be chargeable on any rental charge (leases only) - this affects both residential and commercial leases where different thresholds are applied. There are different rates for First time buyers and "second homes/buy to let".
What is the difference between Joint Tenants and Tenants in Common?
Tenants is Common is where two or more people are entitled to the proceeds of sale in distinct shares - on the death of one, his/her interest will not pass to the survivor(s) but will be part of his/her estate. Joint Tenants are on the other hand 50/50 Co-owners of land - when one of them dies, his/her rights of ownership pass to the survivor(s).