Scottish Daily Mail

Individual­s saved £50,000 by switching equity release plans last year

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Over the past five years, average equity release interest rates have reduced significan­tly. People who changed plans to take advantage of these lower rates saved an average of £50,0001 over the life of their loan.

Recently lenders have started to increase their rates. So, anyone considerin­g switching equity release plans should consider acting now in order to secure the lowest possible rate.

Who can switch plans?

Whether your original plan was arranged through Mail Finance or not, we may be able to secure you a better deal by switching plans, or you could even potentiall­y release more tax-free money from your home.

If you’ve had your existing equity release plan for 12 months or more, then you could receive a free, no-obligation review to find out if you could access a better deal than was previously available to you.

Lower interest rates mean savings

Lifetime mortgage interest rates can be fixed for life, so you want to secure a lower rate before they rise much further. Switching plans could save you thousands of pounds in interest over the course of the plan when compared to your current arrangemen­t. It could also mean that you can take advantage of more flexible plan features, as most plans now give you the option to make ad-hoc repayments, if you wish to make them, and early repayment charges now often reduce over time rather than being a set lump sum.

Plus, the Nationwide Building Society has reported average UK house prices rose by nearly 18 per cent in the past three years alone, meaning that you could release more cash from your home to enjoy spending.

Get advice

Changing your existing equity release plan isn’t right for everyone and it’s important that you understand what it could mean for you and that you consider advice from a specialist.

They will review:

Whether you qualify for the latest plan developmen­ts

Any changes in the value of your house

The amount outstandin­g on your current plan including accrued interest

Any potential early repayment charges that may be applicable.

Equity release may affect the amount of inheritanc­e you can leave and your entitlemen­t to means-tested benefits now or in the future.

Equity release may involve a lifetime mortgage which is secured against your property. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalis­ed illustrati­on. Equity released, plus accrued interest, is to be repaid upon death or moving into long-term care.

Our service provides initial advice for free and without any obligation for you to proceed. Only if you choose to proceed and your case completes would a typical fee of £1,995 be payable.

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