Did you know that by switching equity release plans you can benefit from voluntary no-penalty repayments if you do not have that option in your current plan, or even lower interest rates? 

In the first quarter of 2025, 190,374 equity release borrowers paid off £102mln through penalty-free part repayments and saved £116mln in future interest costs.¹

Are you an existing equity release customer who should review their plan?

By reviewing your current plan and shopping the market to find better benefits, greater flexibility, and lower interest rates, you can save yourself money, and even have extra for your family to inherit.

Our team at EveryInvestor has researched the potential benefits of switching equity release plans.

Therefore:

What Do You Need to Know About Equity Release Plans Before Switching?

Understanding the fundamentals and variations of equity release plans is crucial before considering a switch.

How Do Equity Release Plans Work Before You Switch?

Equity release plans allow homeowners to access the value tied up in their property without the need to move out.

There are two main types: lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans.

When considering switching, it's vital to understand the nuances of your current plan and the potential new plan.

Key factors include interest rates, flexibility regarding additional borrowing or repayments, and any applicable fees or charges for switching.

It's also crucial to consider how the switch will affect the overall cost of the loan and any impact on inheritance you wish to leave.

Use our equity release calculator to get a better idea of what it will cost.

How to Use an Equity Release Switching Plans Calculator

An equity release switching plans calculator can give you a quick overview of the costs and benefits of switching.

By inputting details like your current loan amount, interest rate, and the value of your property, the calculator estimates how much you might save or pay if you switch to a different plan. This can be a helpful first step before contacting an adviser.

Keep in mind that calculators provide rough estimates rather than exact figures. Their purpose is to help you gauge whether switching could be worthwhile.

For a more detailed analysis, it’s best to discuss your options with a financial adviser who can take into account your unique circumstances.

What Types of Equity Release Plans Are Available?

For homeowners aged 55 and above, equity release presents an opportunity to unlock the value of their home without the need to sell.

It provides funds in the form of a lump sum, regular payments, or both, with the house serving as security.

Equity release schemes in the UK primarily includes lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans.

These options are particularly useful for supplementing pension income, undertaking home improvements, or managing healthcare expenses in retirement, providing adaptable financial support.

How to Switch Your Equity Release Provider Successfully in 2025

One can switch their equity release provider by comparing deals, seeking advice, and assessing financial implications for better terms.

How Can You Transfer Your Equity Release to a New Provider?

Yes, in specific situations it is possible to transfer your equity release plan to a different provider.

This process, known as remortgaging, allows you to explore competitive interest rates or more flexible features.

However, be aware that early repayment charges might apply, which is why professional advice is pivotal.

You should consider a thorough review of your current plan and market conditions before jumping ship.

Remember, transferring your plan should fundamentally improve your financial status, not put you at a disadvantage. It's about making smart, informed decisions.

What Are the Steps to Switch Equity Release Plans in 2025?

How you switch equity release plans is not much different from the process of applying for your original plan. 

There are several steps to take.

These are:

1. Seek guidance from an independent financial advisor, broker, or equity release specialist familiar with the switching process.
2. Check for any restrictions on switching within your current plan.
3. Assess available options to determine if a switch is beneficial and aligns with your interests.
4. Provide necessary documentation and fill out forms from the prospective plan provider.
5. An updated valuation of your property will be conducted.
6. Engage a solicitor to assist with the legal aspects of the switch.
7. After the new plan's approval, settle the outstanding balance of your current equity release using funds from the new plan.
8. Your newly selected equity release plan will then be activated.

Why and When Should You Consider Switching Your Equity Release Plan?

A successful switch requires knowledge of the transfer process and adherence to specific steps.

Why Should You Consider Switching Equity Release Providers?

You may consider switching equity release plans if you have had your plan for a while and you have noticed some newer, more innovative options on the market.

With another plan, you may:

• Save money through better interest rates.
• Get greater flexibility in repayment options.
• Access additional features or benefits.
• Find a plan that can be customised to your specific financial goals and preference.

Consider this:

Lower interest rates, and other features, can potentially mean more inheritance for your family at the end of the day.

Did you know that 1 in 3 equity release plans now offer you the benefit of safeguarding a portion of your property’s value through an inheritance protection benefit?²

More importantly:

You may also increase your borrowing amount by switching plans, especially as property values and personal circumstances change.

When Is It Possible to Switch Your Equity Release Plan?

When you can switch your equity release plan is determined by the terms and conditions of your current plan. 

Lender-dependent:

There may be specific timeframes or lock-in periods during which switching is not permitted without incurring penalties or charges. 

These restrictions are designed to ensure stability and consistency in the equity release market.

It is important for you to be aware of any penalties or fees associated with early repayment or switching before the designated time. 

When Is Switching Equity Release Plans Not Advisable?

You should avoid switching equity release plans when the existing plan has substantial early repayment charges or penalties, market conditions are not favourable, and / or your current plan has low rates and good benefits.

There are certain scenarios in which homeowners should exercise caution or avoid switching equity release plans.

Such as when:

• The costs associated with exiting the current plan could outweigh the potential benefits of switching.
• Interest rates are high or property values have significantly decreased.
• You are well into your later years, and switching equity release plans may not provide enough time to recoup the costs associated with switching.
• The current property value is not sufficient to meet the requirements of a new equity release plan.

Can You Move House with an Equity Release Plan?

Yes, it is possible to move house even if you have an equity release plan. Most providers allow you to transfer your plan to a new property, provided it meets their criteria.

However, not all properties are eligible, so you may face restrictions if you’re considering a home outside typical residential standards, such as certain types of flats or retirement homes.

If your new property qualifies, the provider will adjust your plan to match the value of your new home. If it doesn’t, you may need to partially repay some of the loan to complete the move.

It's worth consulting your provider early on to understand the exact requirements and potential costs involved.

Who Is Eligible and How Often Can You Switch Equity Release Plans?

Eligibility and frequency of switching depend on your plan's terms and personal circumstances.

Who Is Eligible for Switching Equity Release Providers?

You may be eligible to switch equity release plans depending on the terms of your existing loan, as well as your age, health, and property value. 

You must consider that:

• Some plans may have restrictions or penalties associated with switching, such as early repayment charges or specific timeframes.
• 96% of all equity release products come with fixed early repayment charges (ERCs) which typically decrease to 0% over time on a sliding scale.³
• Age plays a significant role as older borrowers can generally access more equity on their homes.
• The value of your property must meet the requirements of the new plan you are considering switching to.

How Frequently Can You Switch Equity Release Plans?

How often you can switch equity release plans is determined by individual providers and their policies. 

Some providers may impose limitations on how often homeowners can switch, while others may allow more flexibility. 

It is essential to review the terms and conditions of both the existing and potential new plans to understand any restrictions.

Do so with the help of a qualified financial advisor or broker to determine if there are any restrictions or penalties associated with switching. 

What Are the Benefits and Risks of Switching Equity Release Plans?

Switching can offer financial advantages but also carries potential risks that need careful consideration.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Switching Equity Release Plans?

Switching equity release plans can offer pros such as access to better interest rates, but there are also potential cons to consider.

More details:

What Are the Benefits of Switching Equity Release Plans?

Advantages and benefits of switching equity release plans are aimed at getting a better deal and more equity.

If the market is right, these benefits may include:

• Saving money on interest rates
• Increasing your borrowing potential
• More flexibility in repayment options
• Better benefits

What Are the Potential Drawbacks of Switching Equity Release Plans?

On the other hand, there may be factors that count against switching plans.

Think about:

• Significant early repayment charges
• Additional set-up costs and fees
• Eligibility for means-tested benefits⁴
• Not getting the right advice

What Are Some Equity Release Horror Stories to Be Aware of When Considering Switching?

Horror stories in the realm of equity release often involve individuals not fully understanding the terms, leading to unexpected financial burdens.

For instance, some homeowners switch plans without realizing the new plan's compound interest significantly increases their debt over time.

Others find that early repayment charges on their original plan are exorbitant, making switching financially unfeasible.

These tales underscore the importance of thorough due diligence and consultation with financial advisors before making any changes to your equity release plan.

What Is Enhanced Equity Release and How Does It Affect Switching Plans?

Enhanced equity release, often referred to as 'impaired life equity release,' offers higher loan amounts or more favorable terms to individuals with certain health conditions or lifestyles that could affect their life expectancy.

This type of plan considers the applicant's medical history, allowing providers to tailor the equity release terms based on perceived risk.

When considering switching plans, it's crucial to understand that enhanced terms may not be transferable between providers.

Therefore, if you're contemplating a switch, a thorough comparison of the benefits offered by your current enhanced plan versus potential new plans is essential to ensure you're not forfeiting more favorable terms.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a New Equity Release Provider?

Choosing a new provider requires evaluating their terms, rates, and the flexibility of their plans.

Key Considerations When Changing Equity Release Providers

Things to consider when switching equity release plans are interest rates, fees, potential penalties, eligibility requirements, and the reputation of the new provider. 

It is essential to compare different options and evaluate their long-term impact on personal finances.

Some things to consider:

• Determine whether the new plan offers a lower interest rate, as this can significantly impact the overall cost of borrowing.
• Assess whether the new plan allows for increased borrowing amounts, which may be important if you require additional funds or have experienced a change in financial circumstances.
• Consider the fees associated with switching equity release plans mentioned above.
• Review the eligibility criteria for the new plan, such as age, property value, and health. 
• Assess the flexibility offered by the new plan, such as partial repayment options and inheritance protection guarantees.
• Research and evaluate the reputation and reliability of the new equity release plan provider through customer reviews, industry ratings, and the provider's track record. 
• Seek guidance from an independent financial advisor or broker, or equity release specialist to help you navigate the switching process.

How to Compare and Choose Equity Release Providers When Switching Plans

Equity release providers you should consider when switching plans should be members of the Equity Release Council⁶ and authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority⁷, with a track record of delivering quality service. 

Some well-known equity release providers in the UK include:

• Aviva is one of the largest providers of equity release plans in the UK, offering a range of options and has a reputation for providing competitive interest rates and flexible plans.
• Legal & General is known for their transparency, customer service, and competitive offerings.
• Just Group offers a range of innovative products and has a strong reputation in the industry.
• LV= is a well-established provider offering equity release plans with flexible features and competitive rates.
• Hodge Lifetime offers a range of lifetime mortgage options and has a reputation for its customer-focused approach.

Compare Equity Release Plans: Choosing the Best Plan for Switching

How you can compare equity release providers is on a like-for-like basis, where one provider may offer low interest rates they may not have great flexibility, while another may have better repayment options but lack in the customer service department.

Consider the following questions:

• Do they have positive reviews on independent comparison sites, such as TrustPilot?⁸
• How do interest rates compare?
• Are it's maximum lending amounts comparable?
• What repayment options does it offer?
• How are the fees structured?

By asking these questions, and with the advice of a reputable equity release broker, you can effectively compare equity release providers.

FAQs About Switching Equity Release Plans in 2025

Get answers to common queries to navigate the complexities of switching equity release plans effectively.

Final Thoughts on Switching Equity Release Plans

Switching equity release plans can offer homeowners improved terms, increased borrowing amounts, or greater flexibility. 

Regularly reviewing your plan is essential to stay aligned with your changing needs.

Before making a decision, it is vital to thoroughly assess the benefits, costs, and eligibility criteria involved.

Seeking independent financial advice, comparing providers, and involving solicitors can facilitate a smooth and well-informed process when switching equity release plans.

The features mentioned and the amounts raised, are subject to the lender’s criteria, terms and conditions. These may take into account the age, health and lifestyle factors in order to provide an enhanced amount. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration.