Lifetime Mortgage Broker: How To Source Exclusive Deals

Specialist lifetime mortgage broker Later Life Finance source and arrange equity release mortgages secured against your home, which enable you to release tax-free cash without needing to move home

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Updated January 2024 

 Author Paul Murphy at Later Life Finance Ltd

Using a lifetime mortgage broker

As a whole of market, independent lifetime mortgage broker, Later Life Finance can source plans from the entire market to secure you the best possible deal. 

Use our lifetime mortgage calculator to get started with access to the best deals and the new range of interest only lifetime mortgages. 

We also have access to exclusive plans, interest only lifetime mortgages and can provide a side by side analysis of interest rates and monthly payment options. 

What are lifetime mortgages?

A lifetime mortgage is the most popular type of equity release, a later life mortgage secured against your home which enables you to release tax-free cash. 

Lifetime mortgages are available to homeowners aged 55 or over, and you keep full home ownership for your lifetime. 

You can take the money as a lump sum or in stages, known as a drawdown reserve facility. There’s nothing to repay until you die or move permanently into long-term care, which means the last surviving homeowner for joint cases. 

If you choose to make repayments, you can pay off some or all of the interest, which would reduce the amount of interest added over the life of the mortgage and reduce the amount you’ll owe in the end.

Whether you’re looking to pay off an existing mortgage, make some essential home improvements, or gift money to a family member, a lifetime mortgage could help. You can get a lifetime mortgage quote with our experts at Later Life Finance who will compare the whole market for you. 

We also explore what percentage you can borrow with a lifetime mortgage

and compare over 60s lifetime mortgages from the whole market to help you source the best mortgage solution for your needs. 

How to apply for a lifetime mortgage

Applying for a lifetime mortgage starts with discussing your options with a specialist lifetime mortgage broker such as Later Life Finance. 

We spend time to understand your dreams, aspirations, fears and doubts. 

Our advisers have many years of expertise and a depth of knowledge to help you navigate your options with a genuine level of care and compassion for your best interests. 

We compare lifetime mortgage interest rates from the whole market to source you the best deal from the best lifetime mortgage providers in the market. 

Once you’ve review your options and if a lifetime mortgage is deemed the best option, we will arrange your lifetime mortgage application and deal with your lender and solicitor and guide you through the process. 

How long does a lifetime mortgage application take?

A lifetime mortgage application usually takes between 6 and 10 weeks in total, depending on whether there are any legal aspects to deal with such as title changes. 

Retirement lifetime mortgages

A retirement lifetime mortgage is a long-term loan secured against a borrower’s home, allowing you to access a portion of your home’s value. 

These popular mortgages for the over 70’s offer a wide range of options in later life. 

  • If moving home isn’t on the cards for health, sentimental, family or other reasons, a lifetime mortgage can provide a valuable solution for homeowners in later life. 
  • To be eligible, you need to be over 55 years old and own a property in good condition that is also your main residence.
 

Lifetime mortgage schemes come with a negative equity guarantee, ensuring that the debt will never exceed the value of your home. 

This comes under the equity release council codes of conduct protection for homeowners.

Intrigued? Let’s delve deeper into the options available.

homeowner researching lifetime mortgages with a laptop and calculator

Lifetime mortgages explained: An overview

Lifetime mortgage schemes have become increasingly popular among homeowners aged 55 and over.

They offer a way to access funds tied up in property without the burden of monthly repayments. But before diving in, it’s crucial to understand how the mortgages work, equity release interest rates, and the potential impact on your financial future.

We explore the lifetime mortgage and answer key questions:

  • Understanding your lifetime mortgage options such as how much you can borrow and the plan options is key before taking the plunge. Our experts can help you with this and have access to the best equity release companies.

  • Taking out a lifetime mortgage can have an impact on both inheritance and benefits, so research carefully before proceeding.

  • Seek professional advice on equity release for finding the best lifetime mortgage that suits your needs in 2023!

  • Drawdown lifetime mortgages allow you to stage the borrowing over a longer timeframe which reduces the amount of interest charged on the money borrowed. 

Lifetime mortgages VS equity release: Examples

Lifetime mortgages are the most popular type of equity release. 

Comparing quotes with a broker ensures you get the real picture of what’s available to you. 

Whether you want the lowest interest rate or the greatest flexibility for the future, quotations from several lenders can help you decide what’s right for you. 

Later Life Finance compare the best lifetime mortgage companies from across the whole market to find you the best deals and quotes to help you find the correct scheme for your needs. 

later life couple on bikes discussing equity release lifetime mortgages

Lifetime mortgage quotes to find the best deals

It’s important to get a lifetime mortgage quote from the full range of lifetime mortgage lenders in the marketplace. 

Comparing quotes with a broker ensures you get the real picture of what’s available to you when researching how much you can borrow on a lifetime mortgage

Whether you want the best lifetime mortgage interest rate or the greatest flexibility for the future, quotations from several lenders can help you decide what’s right for you. 

Later Life Finance compare lenders across the whole market to find you the best deals and quotes to help you find the correct scheme for your needs. 

What are my options with lifetime mortgages rates?

Lifetime mortgage Interest rates are fixed for your lifetime on the money released. 

For example, a lump sum lifetime mortgage will have the interest rate fixed for life from the outset. 

When you are ready to compare the market for lifetime mortgages we can source the complete range of lenders available. 

A drawdown lifetime mortgage will have the interest rate at the time of  borrowing. 

You can make voluntary repayments to help reduce the interest costs, and you can pay up to 10% of the amounts borrowed per year with most lenders. 

Who offers the best lifetime mortgage interest rates?

The best interest rates are dependent on several factors, such as sum borrowed, lump sum or drawdown plan, and whether you want flexibility later on to move and repay the mortgage, which you can do. 

Later Life Finance review interest rates from all lifetime mortgage lenders to find the best interest rate for your requirements. 

The percentage of borrowing, whether you take a  lump sum lifetime mortgage or a drawdown plan, or require fixed exit fees for early repayment, for example. 

Are lifetime mortgages from Santander competitive?

Santander offer a range of lifetime and retirement interest only mortgages from Legal & General. 

If you want to compare all your options from each lender available, a broker service will help you to find the best solution from the whole market.

This is including Legal & General plus the rest of the wider marketplace for a full lender quotation and comparison service. 

Later Life Finance limited are a specialist lifetime mortgage broker authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority (FCA). As experts in later life mortgages we review the world of the lifetime mortgage and the important points to consider when deciding whether it is right for you.  Access our free equity release cost calculator for more figures. 

How does a lifetime mortgage compare with typical mortgages, and which option is more suitable? We review and compare to ensure you find the best deal for you. 

Lifetime mortgages from Nationwide

Nationwide offer a range of retirement interest only mortgages. 

The Nationwide range of plans available are very good, however if you want to compare all your options from each lender available, a broker service will help you to find the best solution from the whole market. 

Later Life Finance limited are a specialist lifetime mortgage broker authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority (FCA). As experts in later life mortgages we review the world of the lifetime mortgage and the important points to consider when deciding whether it is right for you.  Access our free equity release cost calculator for more figures. 

How does a lifetime mortgage compare with typical mortgages, and which option is more suitable? We review and compare to ensure you find the best deal for you. 

How good are Aviva lifetime mortgages?

Aviva offer lump sum, drawdown and enhanced lifetime mortgages. 

The Aviva range of plans available are very good, however if you want to compare all your options from each lender available, a broker service will help you to find the best solution from the whole market. 

Later Life Finance limited are a specialist lifetime mortgage broker authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority (FCA). As experts in later life mortgages we review the world of the lifetime mortgage and the important points to consider when deciding whether it is right for you.  Access our free equity release cost calculator for more figures. 

How does a lifetime mortgage compare with typical mortgages, and which option is more suitable? We review and compare to ensure you find the best deal for you. 

Let’s explore further…

How does a lifetime mortgage work?

Lifetime mortgages work by allowing homeowners to borrow a portion of their property’s value, with interest accruing over time and repaid upon death or moving into long-term care. If no voluntary repayments are made, the compounding interest can grow rapidly, so it’s essential to be aware of the total amount that will need to be repaid in the future.

Drawdown lifetime mortgages allow you to stage the borrowing over a longer timeframe which reduces the amount of interest charged on the money borrowed. 

What does Martin lewis think of lifetime mortgages?

Martin Lewis recommends anyone with an existing lifetime mortgage should check if they are eligible for a more competitive interest rate, and how much equity can you can release. 

The money saving expert says if you are looking for a lifetime mortgage equity release calculator, ensure you work with an independent company who is registered with the equity release council. 

Later Life Finance are independent experts and members of the equity release council. 

To compare the top 10 equity release companies, we have reviewed and listed the best lifetime mortgage providers to help you compare your options, including lender features, such as downsizing protection, voluntary repayments and more. 

A couple having lifetime mortgages explained by their adviser

What is best equity release or lifetime mortgage?

Equity release vs lifetime mortgage? What’s best for your requirements?

A lifetime mortgage is the most common type of equity release, what’s best for you depends on your current and longer term plans. 

For example, you may plan to move home in the future, or you may wish to pay the mortgage off early. 

Our expert lifetime mortgage advisers will review the whole lifetime mortgage market to find the best solution based on your requirements. 

How much equity can i borrow with a lifetime mortgage?

The amount you can borrow on a lifetime mortgage, also known as an equity release mortgage, depends on various factors such as your age, health, the value and type of property you live in, and the lending criteria of the provider. 

The maximum loan-to-value on a lifetime mortgage is based on the age of the youngest homeowner

From age 55 you could release around 22% and this increases each year by 1% up to around 50% at age 80. 

For example, a 60 year old could release around 29%, a 70 year old could release around 40% and an 80 year old could release around 50%. 

To receive a personalised illustration get in touch with us or request an instant equity release calculation. 

With lifetime mortgages there’s nothing to repay until you die or move permanently into long-term care. If you want to make payments and have the financial means, you can choose to pay off some or all of the monthly interest, or make ad hoc lump sum payments to the mortgage. 

A couple discussing lifetime mortgage examples

What is a lifetime mortgage for the over 60s?

Lifetime mortgages for the over 60’s are designed with greater flexibility in later life, with retirement and income options to help homeowners design their ideal lifestyle. 

Using a lifetime mortgage, the over 60’s can enjoy tax free equity with flexible lifetime mortgages and enhance retirement years with financial security. 

Lifetime mortgages for pensioners: Financial freedom in later life

Lifetime mortgages for pensioners are flexible to provide a good range of options in later life. 

State pension is not affected by lifetime mortgages however equity release can impact on means tested benefits. 

Our expert advisers will discuss and review your options to ensure you are in the best position to make an informed decision on releasing funds from your home.  

Home reversion plan VS Lifetime mortgages

What’s best, taking a lifetime mortgage or selling a percentage of your home with a home reversion plan?

A home reversion plan involves selling a percentage of your home to a home reversion company, which means that you will no longer own the percentage of your home you’ve sold.

With a lifetime mortgage, you retain ownership of your property and repay the amount borrowed plus interest when the mortgage is repaid. 

Modern lifetime mortgages allow interest to be repaid monthly or ad-hoc, to help preserve more equity in your home. 

Lifetime mortgages are based on your age and the property value, meaning your age dictates the percentage of borrowing available. 

Which banks offer lifetime mortgages?

Banks don’t directly offer equity release as they are specialist lifetime mortgages which require longer term funding models for older homeowners. 

Later Life Finance provide an independent broker service to review all your lifetime mortgage options across the whole market. 

What are the pitfalls of a lifetime mortgage?

The main disadvantage of a lifetime mortgage is the amount borrowed incurs compound interest. 

Compound interest is where you pay interest on the original loan amount, plus the interest that’s already been added to the loan.

A lifetime mortgage isn’t normally repaid until you die or go into long term care, the amount owed could grow rapidly over the years.

Modern lifetime mortgages allow repayments to avoid or reduce the effect of interest on your home. 

What is the criteria for a lifetime mortgage?

When considering criteria for lifetime mortgages, they are available to homeowners aged 55 or overYou can take the equity as a lump sum or as series of lump sums known as a drawdown lifetime mortgage.

To qualify for the lending criteria, homeowners over 55 must have a standard construction home with sufficient equity in your to raise with a lifetime mortgage.  

Lifetime mortgages for over 65s

Lifetime mortgages are available for over 65’s can help enhance retirement years with financial security. 

The mortgages are designed for retirement years with extra flexibility for repayment options, and without a fixed term for financial security in later life. 

For expert advice on all your options Later Life Finance will review the whole market to source the best deals. 

an image showing what are lifetime mortgages with houses and growth in value

Can you pay off a Lifetime Mortgage early?

Yes, early repayment of a lifetime mortgage is possible, but keep in mind that you may be charged fees depending on the provider and plan. It’s essential to understand any potential early repayment fees before proceeding with a lifetime mortgage.

How much do you pay back with a lifetime mortgage?

Compound interest means the sum borrowed will accumulate over time and cause the sum borrowed to double in around 10 years. 

Due to this effect, voluntary interest repayments are popular with homeowners looking to unlock their equity without having to lose it all to effects of compound interest accruing. 

For example, if the interest is repaid on a lifetime mortgage each month, this will stop any compound interest being applied to the mortgage meaning they can be run in a similar fashion to an interest only mortgage. 

Since the repayments are voluntary, there is no risk of default with a lifetime mortgage, making the plans much safer in retirement years for homeowners. 

For example, in a joint ownership structure, if one homeowner passes away the survivor could opt to stop or reduce the voluntary repayments when their income reduces as a result of losing their partner. 

The flexibility makes the lifetime mortgage a safe and acceptable solution to consider when raising cash from your home. 

Are LV lifetime mortgages worth considering?

Liverpool Victoria offer lump sum and drawdown lifetime mortgages. 

The LV range of plans available are very good, however if you want to compare all your options from each lender available, a broker service will help you to find the best solution from the whole market. 

Later Life Finance limited are a specialist lifetime mortgage broker authorised and regulated by the financial conduct authority (FCA). As experts in later life mortgages we review the world of the lifetime mortgage and the important points to consider when deciding whether it is right for you.  Access our free equity release cost calculator for more figures. 

How does a lifetime mortgage compare with typical mortgages, and which option is more suitable? We review and compare to ensure you find the best deal for you. 

Do Barclays offer lifetime mortgages?

Barclays don’t offer lifetime mortgages.

If you want to compare all your options from each lender available, a broker service will help you to find the best solution from the whole market. 

Later Life Finance review and compare to ensure you find the best deal for you. 

Lifetime mortgage rates

Lifetime mortgage interest rates vary across the market, with current average rates around 6.3%. 

The interest rate you’ll receive on a lifetime mortgage depends on several factors, such as the amount you want to borrow and the type of plan you choose. Other factors like your age, property value, and loan-to-value ratio also come into play when determining the interest rate.

What is a lifetime mortgage plan?

A graph showing the effect of age on lifetime mortgage calculator

A lifetime mortgage plan is the scheme your adviser recommends based on your circumstances.

As mentioned earlier, factors such as the borrower’s age, property value and type, health and loan-to-value ratio affect lifetime mortgage rates. Understanding these factors can help you choose the right mortgage and secure the best possible rate. 

Our expert advisers will leave no stone unturned when it comes to sourcing the best plan for your specific circumstances. 

Enhanced lifetime mortgages

An enhanced lifetime mortgage is where lending criteria is based on your BMI, personal health and whether you smoke. This criteria may enable you to raise a higher percentage of borrowing. 
 
Only a handful of lenders offer these schemes. Later Life Finance provides full access to the range of enhanced lenders available. 
 
More commonly, these schemes will allow more cash to be released depending on your answers given to a health and lifestyle questionnaire.

The borrower’s age and health plays a significant role in calculating the interest rate on a lifetime mortgage.

Any health issues can provide access to enhanced terms, potentially providing a higher level of borrowing, although this can also come with higher interest rates too. 

How long does equity release take to arrange?

An equity release application usually takes between 6 and 10 weeks in total, depending on whether there are any legal aspects to deal with such as title changes. 

What are the downsides of a lifetime mortgage?

Some drawbacks of lifetime mortgages are

  • The interest payable can increase the total amount owed quickly over time.
  • Although you can make repayments to reduce or avoid the effect of interest, If you choose not to repay anything until you die or move permanently into long-term care, the compounded interest will increase over time. 
  • Means tested benefits can be affected by equity release
  • You will have less equity in your home for downsizing later on, although plans are portable to allow you to move home

Types of Lifetime Mortgages​

A diagram showing the different types of lifetime mortgages

Different types of lifetime mortgages offer varying interest rates and repayment options, such as lump sum, drawdown, and interest-only mortgages. Understanding these types can help you choose the best option for your needs.

Let’s explore each type in more detail.

Lump Sum Lifetime Mortgages

Lump sum lifetime mortgages provide a single payment, with interest accruing over time if you do not make any voluntary repayments to the plan. 

This type of mortgage allows you to access a large sum of money at once, based on your age and the property value. 

Our expert advisers will also consider whether a drawdown lifetime mortgage may be more suitable. 

Drawdown Lifetime Mortgages

Drawdown lifetime mortgages offer more flexibility, allowing borrowers to access funds as needed, with interest only charged on withdrawn amounts. This type of mortgage can be an attractive option for those who want to access funds gradually while minimising interest charges.

The funds in the drawdown (or reserve facility) are charged at the prevailing interest rate at the time of borrowing, which makes this option an efficient route compared with taking the funds in one lump sum. 

Interest only lifetime mortgage

Interest-only lifetime mortgages require monthly interest payments, keeping the loan balance constant.

This type of mortgage can help homeowners protect a larger portion of their property for inheritance or maintain a steady loan balance.

The advantage of an interest only lifetime mortgage is the payments are voluntary and can be rolled up, which protects homeowners from defaulting on the mortgage in the event payments were stopped for any reason. This can be beneficial in the event of either spouse passing away or going into long term care, and protects the surviving homeowner. 

Consider whether making monthly interest payments aligns with your financial goals and capabilities.

Top lifetime mortgages providers in 2023

A table comparing the top lifetime mortgage providers in 2024

In 2023, top lifetime mortgage providers offer lifetime mortgages with competitive rates, flexible terms, and exceptional customer service for enhanced lifetime mortgages.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best providers in the market.

Legal & General Lifetime Mortgages

Legal & General are  known for their exceptional customer service and as they funds their own mortgages, they make fast decisions and are flexible. Applications can only be made through independent financial advisers, ensuring that borrowers receive personalised guidance from qualified professionals.

This ensures that customers receive the best advice and guidance when making decisions about their retirement plans. Legal & General also offer a wide range of later life mortgages making it an attractive option for finding the best solution for your needs. 

Legal & General are a member of the Equity Release Council. To explore your options further, consider using a free equity release calculator.

Aviva Lifetime Mortgages

Legal & General are  known for their exceptional customer service and as they funds their own mortgages, they make fast decisions and are flexible. Applications can only be made through independent financial advisers, ensuring that borrowers receive personalised guidance from qualified professionals.

This ensures that customers receive the best advice and guidance when making decisions about their retirement plans. Legal & General also offer a wide range of later life mortgages making it an attractive option for finding the best solution for your needs. 

Legal & General are a member of the Equity Release Council. To explore your options further, consider using a free equity release calculator.

More to Life Lifetime Mortgages

More 2 Life offers flexible lifetime mortgage plans from several funders providing borrowers with access to a wide range of solutions available through your equity release adviser. 

it’s worth noting that More 2 Life is a member of the Equity Release Council. To explore your options further, consider using our free equity release calculator.

Canada Life Lifetime Mortgages

Canada Life offers flexible lifetime mortgage plans and also provide downsizing protection, allowing borrowers to switch to a smaller property and pay off their lifetime mortgage without extra fees. 

This means that borrowers can move to a smaller property without having to pay additional fees or charges. This is a great benefit for those who may need to downsize in the future, and

Standard Life Lifetime Mortgages

Standard Life offer some of the most competitive lifetime mortgages in the market. With tapered early repayment charges their plans offer a good level of flexibility for homeowners. 

Tips for choosing the best lifetime mortgage

Aviva best equity release plans

Choosing the best lifetime mortgage involves assessing your personal needs, comparing rates and terms from various providers, and seeking professional advice from a financial advisor.

Let’s break down these tips to help you find the best lifetime mortgage for your unique situation.

Assess your needs

Before selecting a lifetime mortgage, consider your financial needs and goals. What do you want to achieve with the equity release? Are you looking for a lump sum to cover a significant expense, or would you prefer a drawdown mortgage for ongoing expenses?

Understanding your needs will help you narrow down the most suitable mortgage options.

Compare rates and terms

Take the time to compare interest rates, fees, and terms from multiple providers to find the best fit for your needs. Consider factors such as early repayment charges and any additional fees that may apply.

Comparing rates and terms will help you secure the most favorable lifetime mortgage for your situation.

Seek professional advice

Consulting a financial advisor for personalised guidance on choosing the right lifetime mortgage is crucial. 

Our experienced professional can help you navigate the different products, assess your needs, and find the best plan with the most competitive interest rates and features.

Don’t underestimate the value of expert advice in finding the perfect lifetime mortgage.

Impact of lifetime mortgages on inheritance & benefits

A diagram showing the impact of lifetime mortgages on inheritance and benefits

Lifetime mortgages can impact inheritance and means-tested benefits, so it’s important to consider these factors before taking out a loan.

Let’s explore the potential effects of lifetime mortgages on both inheritance and benefit eligibility.

Inheritance considerations

Lifetime mortgages may reduce the value of an estate, affecting inheritance for beneficiaries. However, some lifetime mortgages, such as interest-only mortgages, allow monthly interest payments, which can help preserve the equity in the property.

Consider the potential impact on your estate and discuss your options with a financial advisor.

Effects on means tested benefits

Borrowing through a lifetime mortgage can affect eligibility for means-tested benefits. The cash you receive could increase your savings and capital to a level that exceeds the eligibility threshold.

It’s essential to understand the potential impact on your benefits before proceeding with a lifetime mortgage.

Downsizing protection

Some lenders provide a beneficial feature called downsizing protection, which grants you the ability to repay your equity release early without incurring any early repayment charges when you relocate to a new home. 

Should I take a lump sum or a drawdown plan?

The decision between a lump sum or drawdown lifetime mortgage should be based on your specific needs and requirements.

Opting for a drawdown lifetime mortgage can offer certain advantages, which include:

  1. Interest is applied only to the amount withdrawn, rather than the entire approved loan. This can potentially save you money on interest charges.

  2. Drawdown allows you to plan and budget for specific projects and your retirement more effectively, as you have the flexibility to access funds as needed.

  3. By choosing a drawdown lifetime mortgage, you may be able to maintain eligibility for means-tested benefits, as you have control over the amount and timing of the withdrawals.

Ultimately, it is important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and seek professional advice to determine which option, lump sum or drawdown, aligns best with your financial goals and requirements.

Summary

There are many factors to discuss when considering whether a lifetime mortgage broker. 

Various aspects of equity release, including the option to transfer a lifetime mortgage to a new property, the protection against negative equity, considerations for early repayment, and the choice between a lump sum or drawdown lifetime mortgage are all important factors to consider when exploring equity release. 

Later Life Finance provide a comprehensive review of all your equity release options. Our expert advisers provide detailed illustrations and projections to assist you with understanding the effect of raising money from your home on your estate. 

We provide professional insight into how to manage the optional interest payments, and how this will affect your estate in comparison with making no payments. 

  • Lifetime mortgages allow homeowners over 55 to borrow against their property. With optional repayments the mortgage is settled when the homeowners pass away or go into long term care. 
  • Voluntary repayments mean compound interest can be avoided or reduced to help preserve more equity for your beneficiaries, or for downsizing and settling the mortgage and buying another home. 
  • No negative equity guarantee for Equity Release Council members ensures you will never owe more than your home’s sale proceeds; protecting you and your family. 
  • Possible to port (move) the lifetime mortgage when moving to a suitable property, or sell property and repay debt with sale proceeds (subject to exit fee’s)
  • Downsizing protection to repay without any exit fees if you move home and settle early 
  • Access professional equity release advice with Later Life Finance. We help you determine if a lifetime mortgage suits your needs and review lump sum or drawdown options, voluntary repayments and exit fees. 

Lifetime mortgage FAQs

The amount you can release on a lifetime mortgage is usually between 20% and 50% of the home's valuation. This is based on the age of the youngest homeowner and the property type.
If you need to raise more money and have no remaining Drawdown (reserve) Facility, you may be able to take a Further Advance from your lifetime mortgage. This is additional borrowing on top of your existing lifetime mortgage and is subject to the valuation of your home and the balance on your lifetime mortgage.
Equity release companies who adhere to the Equity Release Council codes of conduct offer the option to transfer your lifetime mortgage to a new property if you decide to move. However, certain conditions must be met for the new property to be considered "suitable." A suitable property refers to one that is deemed marketable by the equity release company in the future. For instance, if the new property is located in a flood-prone area, the transfer of the lifetime mortgage may not be permitted. In the case of downsizing to a property of lesser value, you might be required to repay a portion of your lifetime mortgage to facilitate the transfer.
In the case of a lifetime mortgage, you generally do not need to make monthly repayments since the loan, along with the accumulated interest, is settled when your home is eventually sold. Your lifetime mortgage adviser will provide detailed projections of how much you will pay back based on whether you opt to make payments or not.
In the event of you passing away shortly after obtaining a lifetime mortgage, the interest accrued would not have significantly accumulated, resulting in a smaller growth of the debt. If no other homeowner is listed on the lifetime mortgage, the lender requires the mortgage to be settled within 12 months of you passing away. The executors of your will sell the property and utilise the proceeds to settle the debt. The beneficiaries of your estate may opt pay off the debt using cash or a new mortgage and retain ownership of the property. This will depend on factors including your wishes set out in your will, and on whether the property is to be retained or sold, with any remaining equity divided by your beneficiaries. 
Equity release lenders who are a member of the Equity Release Council provide a no-negative equity guarantee. This ensures you will never be required to repay more than the proceeds from the sale of your home to settle the debt. In other words, the lender cannot pursue you for any shortfall between the debt amount and the sale proceeds. This protection is made possible by the no negative equity guarantee, which is upheld by all members of the Equity Release Council. According to this guarantee, the lender is strictly limited to requesting only 100% of the sale proceeds as repayment. They are not permitted to seek additional payment from you, your estate, or your estate beneficiaries.
A typical rate for a lifetime mortgage typically falls between 5.9% and 7%. That said, your rate may be different depending on factors like your loan-to-value ratio and the features included in your plan. It’s important to compare the features of different plans to find the one that best fits your needs.
Lifetime mortgages come with a few risks, such as the possibility of owing more than the value of your home due to accumulated interest. They also require monthly fees and can significantly reduce the amount of inheritance you can pass on to family members. Ultimately, it’s important to consider all of these factors when deciding if a lifetime mortgage is the right choice for you.
Lifetime mortgage interest rates are typically based on your age, the amount of money you need to borrow, and the value of your property. Generally speaking, the older you are and the less you borrow, the lower the rate you can expect. Drawdown lifetime mortgages have interest rates set at the time of further borrowing, whereas the initial lump sum is determined at the time of arranging the plan. So be sure to research what’s out there before making a decision.
Yes, you can pay off a lifetime mortgage early, but there may be fees associated with doing so. Providers have varying levels of early repayment charges which your equity release adviser will discuss with you to ensure you have access to all your options and understand the features and charges. It is best to check with your provider before you decide on the repayment plan.
Lifetime mortgages come in several forms, including lump sum, drawdown and interest-only plans. Each offers different rates and repayment arrangements, so your adviser can tailor the mortgage to meet your needs. Later Life Finance provides access to the whole lifetime mortgage market. We will explain the features, costs and points to consider of each option. This will help you make a balanced decision on the right solution for you.
You can repay an interest-only mortgage with an equity release plan. Lifetime mortgages are the most popular form of equity release and allow optional repayments of interest charges, if you wish. Since monthly repayments are voluntary with a lifetime mortgage, your home is not at risk of repossession if you do not maintain monthly payments.Therefore these plans can be more suitable into retirement years.
An interest-only lifetime mortgage is a type of equity release plan where you can pay the interest off on a monthly basis. This avoids compound interest being added which stops the loan from increasing. This type of mortgage is popular for homeowners who want to maintain equity in the home for inheritance or downsizing purposes.