Equity Release Advisers
Backed by over 40 years’ experience, Ward Goodman provides independent equity release advice to help you access the value in your home with clarity, confidence, and long-term peace of mind.
- Independent equity release advisers
- Free, no-obligation meeting in Dorset or online
- Tailored advice aligned with your long-term plans
What is Equity Release?
Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 and over to access some of the value tied up in their property, without needing to move home. It provides tax-free cash, which can be taken as a lump sum, smaller amounts over time, or a combination of both, while you continue living in your home.
The funds released are often used to support retirement income, repay an existing mortgage, help family members financially, or cover later-life costs. Rather than making monthly repayments, the amount borrowed is usually repaid when the property is sold, typically after death or a move into long-term care.
Equity release is a long-term financial commitment and can affect the value of your estate. Independent advice is essential to ensure it is suitable for your circumstances.
How Does Equity Release Work?
Most equity release plans in the UK are structured as lifetime mortgages. This involves borrowing against the value of your home while retaining ownership. Interest is added to the loan over time and is usually repaid when the property is sold.
The amount you can release depends on factors such as your age, property value, and personal circumstances. Many modern plans offer flexibility, including the ability to make voluntary repayments, protect a portion of your property’s value for inheritance, or access funds in stages.
Before proceeding, you’ll receive personalised advice, a clear explanation of costs and risks, and an illustration showing how the loan may grow over time.
Are You Eligible For Equity Release?
Before exploring equity release in more detail, it’s important to understand whether a lifetime mortgage could be an option for you. There are a few basic criteria that lenders typically look for.
In most cases, you’ll need to:
- Be aged 55 or over (this usually applies to all homeowners on the property)
- Own a property in the UK, excluding the Isle of Man and Channel Islands
- Have a property with a minimum value of around £75,000
- Be looking to release at least £15,000
What’s Included with Equity Release
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Access to tax-free cash Release money from your home as a lump sum, smaller withdrawals over time, or a combination of both.
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Remain living in your home You continue to live in your property for life, provided it remains your main residence and is maintained.
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No mandatory monthly repayments Interest is usually added to the loan and repaid when the property is sold, unless you choose to make voluntary payments.
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Flexible modern features Many plans allow voluntary repayments, inheritance protection, or staged withdrawals to help manage interest costs.
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Regulated, independent advice You’ll receive clear advice explaining costs, risks, and long-term impact before proceeding.
Important Things to Know
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Interest builds over time Interest is added to the loan and can grow significantly if no repayments are made.
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It affects your estate Equity release will reduce the value of your estate and the inheritance you leave behind.
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Eligibility varies How much you can release depends on your age, property value, and individual circumstances.
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Early repayment charges may apply Repaying early or switching plans can result in charges, depending on the product.
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It’s a long-term commitment Equity release is designed as a lifetime solution and may not suit everyone.
Our Property Finance Services
Buy-to-Let Mortgages
Helping landlords and investors secure financing for rental properties, ensuring the best mortgage rates and terms for long-term profitability.
Re-Mortgaging
Reviewing existing mortgage deals to secure better interest rates, reduce monthly repayments, or raise additional capital.
Equity Release Schemes
Guidance on accessing capital from your home through lifetime mortgages or home reversion plans while maintaining financial stability.
First-Time Buyer Mortgages
Helping first-time buyers navigate the mortgage process, ensuring access to competitive rates and government-backed schemes where applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you be refused equity release?
Yes. Equity release is not guaranteed. Lenders assess factors such as your age, property value, property type, and sometimes your health. Certain properties may not meet lending criteria, and equity release may also be deemed unsuitable following an advice review.
How long does equity release take after valuation?
Can you release equity without remortgaging?
How much does it cost to get equity release advice?
Am I eligible for equity release?
What types of equity release plans are available?
How much equity can I release from my home?
Will equity release affect my inheritance?
Is equity release safe and regulated in the UK?
Can I repay an equity release plan early or make voluntary payments?
Is equity release the right option for me, or should I consider alternatives?
How Our Property Finance Experts Can Help
Tailored Property Finance Advice
Our financial specialists provide tailored advice for individuals, investors, and businesses looking to finance property purchases or release funds from existing assets.
Mortgage & Refinancing Solutions
Whether you’re a first-time buyer seeking guidance on mortgage options, a landlord expanding a property portfolio, or a homeowner looking to refinance, we help you access the best financial products for your situation.
Equity Release & Wealth Unlocking
We also offer expert support on equity release schemes, allowing homeowners to unlock value from their property in a tax-efficient way while maintaining financial security.
Market-Wide Lending Support
With access to a broad range of lenders and mortgage providers, we ensure you receive unbiased, market-wide advice to secure the most competitive terms.
The Process
Initial referral or inquiry
Whether you’ve been referred or inquired yourself, our team will reach out to you in a timely manner
Free consultation
We offer a no-cost, no-obligation meeting at one of our offices, or over the phone
Quote and setup
We’ll provide you with a tailored quote and when you’re ready, our tax advisors will begin services
Book a Meeting
If you would like to discuss further, please book a meeting with an experienced member of our team. Simply let us know when’s best for you and we will get in touch to arrange a suitable time.
Why Choose Ward Goodman?
Client satisfaction is paramount to us. We have a broad range of clients, and we endeavour to offer them the best tax planning service possible through continuous improvement and focus on doing things right the first time.
Experienced Advisors & Accountants
Our Dorset-based team can advise and support any size of business locally or nationwide.
Bespoke Financial Advice & Tax Planning Service Packages
Flexible, bespoke service covering all aspects of tax planning.
Access to a Full Team of Finance Experts
From our Financial Advisors to Pension Advisors.
Our Awards and Accreditations
Ward Goodman’s excellence in accounting and tax advice is validated by notable awards and accreditations within the UK financial industry.
AAT Qualified
Xero Certified
ICAEW Membership
Partnerships
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