For some, retirement could be an exciting time of adventurous new beginnings; but for others it is a worrying period meaning the end of financial security. For those who are unsure about their financial security may want to look into equity release schemes which could well be the solution to their problems.
Equity release involves raising tax free money from your main residence or a second property that you may own such as a rental establishment. Equity release schemes can either pay out a one off lump sum of money or can be paid out as a monthly income and can be spent as you see fit. The lenders place no restrictions on the usage of the funds. There are various equity release schemes available to choose from such as lifetime mortgages and home reversion schemes. It is best to approach an equity release adviser to determine which equity release scheme would be the best to meet your individual needs and requirements.
Lifetime Mortgages are one of the most popular equity release schemes available. A Lifetime Mortgage means that you take out a loan against the house you live in or the property that you own. There is no requirement for you to repay back the Lifetime Mortgage on a monthly basis, instead the interest accrues on top of the original amount borrowed. Therefore, the balance will increase over time, but it affords you the retirement luxury of having dispoable income with which you can utilise on everyday needs. You still retain 100% ownership of the property & may still live in your home, rent free as long as you see fit. The repayment of the lifetime mortgage must happen in the event of the selling of your home, moving into long etrm care or the passing away of you and your partner.
Another popular equity release scheme is called the home reversion scheme. Home reversion involves selling part of your home or owned property to a home reversion scheme provider. In return for sacrificing some or all of the ownership, you will receive a tax free lumo sum or a monthly income from the particular home reversion provider. As with the lifetime mortgage you will continue to live in your home until you sell or pass away, where at this point the home reversion scheme provider will sell their share of the home or property. At least with a home reversion compnay you can guarantee an inheritance for your beneficiaries as whatever percentage of the property you don't sell will be guaranteed to pass as part of the sale proceeds to the children.
An equity release scheme is a quick and easy way to get tax free cash from the home that you live in or rent out. When in retirement equity release schemes can ensure a capital amount can be withdrawn from the equity in your property. Alternatively, a fixed monthly income can taken. In essence both options can enhance and secure a more comfortable & lavish retirement.
