Equity Release Age Limits and Options Under 55 in 2024

Equity release often gets labelled as an option for the over-55s. But the truth is, it’s not just for those in their later years.

In essence, equity release is a financial arrangement that lets you unlock the wealth tied up in your home. It mainly comes in two types – lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans. Each has its specific features and benefits.

While it’s true that most equity release options are designed for those aged 55 or above, alternatives do exist for those younger.

In this article, we’ll explore these age guidelines for equity release. We’ll also highlight the choices for those under 55 and introduce a handy tool for estimating how much you could release. We’ll take you through these key points without overcomplicating things.

What is the Minimum Age for Equity Release?

Equity release becomes an option once you reach the age of 55. This age limit is established by most providers, although certain plans may specify a higher threshold, such as 60 or 65 years old.

It’s important to note that removing someone from property ownership to satisfy this age requirement is not advised, as it could lead to future issues such as potential homelessness for the younger partner.

Further eligibility factors include the requirement for the property, from which equity is being released, to be your primary residence. It should also meet a minimum value standard, typically set around £70,000 or more by most lenders.

Is There a Maximum Age Limit?

For equity release schemes, there isn’t a specified maximum age limit. If you’re significantly older than the minimum age requirement of 55, you may be eligible for more favourable terms. 

Equity release products like lifetime mortgages are often recommended to be deferred until later in life, in order to reduce the accumulated interest over time.

But, while there’s no universal maximum age, some providers may enforce their own age restrictions, usually varying between 80 to 100 years old. 

If you’re under 55 and wish to access the equity from your property, there are alternative methods, but these may come with their own age-related restrictions.

Releasing Equity after 55: An Overview

Upon reaching the age of 55, many new opportunities open up for homeowners. At this stage, not only do the usual options of remortgaging, home improvement loans, downsizing, or selling remain open, but equity release products also become available. 

The key eligibility criteria here include being within the required age bracket and having outright ownership of a property worth £70,000 or more. 

How much equity you can release is influenced by your age. Here’s an example in table form:

Age	Maximum Percentage of Property’s Value You Can Release
55	27%
65	40%
75	50%
85	60%

These percentages might increase under certain circumstances, such as if you have a reduced life expectancy. 

In such cases, enhanced lifetime mortgages can come into play, potentially allowing you to borrow more than the standard rates. The exact amount depends on a medical questionnaire’s results.

There’s another type of equity release plan that requires attention: home reversion. In this arrangement, you sign over a percentage of your property to a provider in exchange for a cash lump sum. 

The catch? These funds are often below market rates, and the option is only available to those aged 60 and above. Plus, advisors rarely recommend this method due to its associated risks.

Why Engage a Broker?

Given the wide range of equity release options and their unique conditions, it can be challenging to find the best fit for your situation. This is where a broker comes in.

Qualified brokers are experienced professionals who understand the equity release market inside out. They can provide you with independent advice tailored to your specific needs, taking into account your financial situation, goals, and the age-related requirements of different equity release products. 

A good broker can help you identify the most cost-effective route to releasing your home’s equity, whether you’re above or below 55. 

They can guide you through the complexities of borrowing and match you with a lender who can offer you the best deal for your age bracket.

Working with a broker not only simplifies the process of releasing equity but also ensures you make an informed decision, keeping your long-term financial health at the forefront.

How Much Equity Can You Release?

Using an equity release calculator helps you estimate how much you can release from your home.

These calculators take into account various factors, such as:

• Your age – Generally, the older you are, the more you can borrow.
• Property value – The higher the value of your home, the more equity you can release.
• Health and lifestyle factors –  Some health conditions or lifestyles might qualify you for better terms.

Try out our equity release calculator to see your potential amount.

What Are Your Options for Equity Release if You’re Under 55?

While equity release may seem like a distant dream if you’re under 55, it’s far from impossible. Let’s dive into the different methods you could employ:

Remortgaging

Think of remortgaging as taking out a new mortgage to replace your current one. This can allow you to tap into your home’s equity while potentially securing a more favourable interest rate. 

Of course, you’ll need to satisfy the lender’s eligibility requirements, such as having enough income to afford the repayments.

Home Improvement Loans

You can view these as a type of personal loan specifically for home renovations. Two types exist: secured and unsecured. 

Unsecured loans don’t require collateral, but they usually cap at £25,000. For larger renovations, you might need a secured loan, which requires collateral but allows for higher loan amounts and possibly better interest rates.

Retirement Interest Only Mortgages (RIOs)

Available from the age of 50, RIOs function like lifetime mortgages, with a significant difference: you make monthly payments covering the loan’s interest. 

These loans typically let you borrow up to 50% (sometimes 55%) of your home’s value, but you’ll need to show that your retirement income can cover the interest repayments.

Selling Your Home

If you’re flexible about where you live, selling your home can release all of its equity, minus any selling expenses. This might be a good option if you’re considering downsizing or if you have a second home.

The Bottom Line: Speak with an Equity Release Advisor

As we’ve seen, equity release isn’t exclusively for those aged 55 and over. With options at your disposal, you can tap into your property’s value irrespective of your age. 

From remortgaging and home improvement loans to Retirement Interest Only Mortgages and selling your home, there are many avenues to explore. 

Seeking the advice of a knowledgeable broker could be your best bet in finding the most suitable approach to releasing equity. 

They can offer you independent advice, tailored to your circumstances, and guide you through the whole process. Why not take that step towards harnessing your property’s full financial potential?

To get started, fill out this quick form. We will connect you with a top mortgage broker who is experienced and knowledgeable about equity release in the UK.