Did you know that obtaining an equity release quote, which allows comparison across a spectrum of interest rates, features, and providers, could be a beneficial step in your equity release process?
Each year, thousands of UK homeowners aged 55 and older use equity release to tap into the wealth tied up in their homes.1
Because of market fluctuations, the equity release market experienced a subdued period in the first quarter of 2023, with total lending as recorded by the Equity Release Council reaching £699mln, the lowest that figure has been since the second quarter of 2020 during the pandemic.2
Nevertheless, there are signs that the equity release industry is on the uptick again as interest rates decrease, according to the Chair of the Equity Release Council.3
In This Article, You Will Discover:
In this article, the EveryInvestor team aims to simplify the concept of an equity release quote and it’s role in financial planning for retirement.
You can request equity release quotes to explore options for unlocking the value of your home.
Our goal is to provide a bite-size summary of how these quotes work so you can be in a better position to make informed decisions.
At EveryInvestor, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Our researchers have spent hundreds of hours analysing the latest equity release news, and our editorial team reviews, fact-checks, and updates all our content to ensure it remains current, relevant, and undergoes extensive quality checks.
This content is intended to provide informational and educational resources and should not be considered financial advice. Always seek advice from a professional financial advisor or broker before making any decisions.
Therefore:
Are You Looking For an Equity Release Quote in 2026?
If you are looking for an equity release quote in 2026, one of the free calculators offered by most lenders, advisors, and comparison sites would be a good starting point.
Just remember that these results represent the most basic of ballpark figures when it comes to how much equity you are able to access.
Why?
Free online calculators normally present you with a result by using only the most basic information, such as your age and the value of your house.
What is the solution?
A conversation with a qualified equity release broker or advisor should help you uncover any specific needs or circumstances that may affect a quote but could easily be missed by an online calculator.
Where to Get Equity Release Quotes
You can get equity release quotes from a number of sources, including by contacting a specialist broker or by using an online calculator.
What to look out for with each:
- Many equity release providers offer quotes through online calculators. Online calculators will provide the most rudimentary equity release quote without taking any of your personal circumstances into consideration. Try a few for comparison purposes, but keep in mind that you will not be able to apply directly to a provider.4
- Equity release advisors will take the hard work out of the process for you, as they have access to a wide range of providers and can offer tailored advice based on your circumstances.
- Comparison websites such as UK Care Guide5 and The Times Money Mentor6 allow you to compare different offers in one place.
Remember, while getting quotes is important, it is equally vital to understand the implications of equity release for your finances and estate.
Can You Get a Free Quote to Take Out Equity Release?
Yes, you can get a free quote to take out equity release, either by using an online calculator or by contacting an equity release advisor.
Many lenders and equity release specialists offer a quotation service at no cost to help you explore your options.
These free quotes are instrumental in assisting you to gauge how much equity you could potentially unlock from your home.
Most sites also provide a free callback service from independent advisory firms for more personalised estimates.
What is the catch?
There is no catch when it comes to these free quotes, but if you proceed with an application with the advisory firm you obtain a free quote from, you will probably be charged a fixed fee when your case completes.7
Factors That Could Influence Your Equity Release Quote
Factors that could influence your equity release quote include your age and health and your property’s value and location.
While an online quote will give you a rough idea of how much equity you could access, these factors will be the things that will narrow down your equity release quote.
#1. Age and Health
Age and health play a significant role in equity release quotes.
That is because, generally, older individuals can borrow more against their property.
Certain providers offer enhanced plans for those with specific health conditions or lifestyle factors like smoking, allowing access to more equity.
How does that work?
A shorter life expectancy means the provider may be able to recoup the loan amount sooner.
#2. Property Value and Location
Property value and location are crucial in determining your accessible equity.
Higher property values usually result in higher potential equity release loans in the UK.
The location of your home is also important, as property values can vary significantly across regions.
Some lenders even have restrictions on offering equity release products in certain geographic areas.8
#3. Outstanding Mortgage or Debt
An outstanding mortgage or debt secured against your home could also influence the real value of the loan amount offered to you on the quotes you receive.
If there is an existing mortgage or secured debt on your property, this must be paid off when the equity release is made, either from the equity release proceeds or other sources.
This will, of course, reduce the net amount of cash you receive.
#4. Interest Rates
The interest rates offered by the providers you receive quotes from will impact the overall cost of the respective equity release loans.
The rate may be fixed or variable, and a lower rate will mean there may be less to repay in the future.
What Do I Need to Get an Equity Release Quote?
To get an equity release quote, you will need to provide your broker or advisor with certain information.
When requesting an equity release quote, provide the following information:
- Personal details: Name, contact information, and address.
- Age: The minimum age is typically 55, but requirements may vary, and the borrowing amount often increases with age.9
- Property value: The approximate current value of your home.
- Outstanding mortgage or loan details: The amount remaining on any existing mortgage or loan secured on the property.
- Property location: Your postcode will be required to assess property value and local market conditions.
- Health details: Certain health conditions or lifestyle factors may qualify for an Enhanced Lifetime Mortgage.
Having all necessary information ready when contacting an equity release broker or advisor can save time.
Is It Important to Compare Equity Release Providers?
Yes, it is important to compare equity release providers in order to allow for a more comprehensive perspective of potential offers, helping you make an informed decision.
Just as you would compare mortgage or insurance providers, comparing equity release providers can offer numerous advantages.
The benefits of comparing equity release providers:
- It provides an opportunity to find the most competitive rates, which could result in significant savings over time.
- Different providers offer varied equity release plans, each with their unique features, benefits, and terms.
- Comparing allows you to gauge the reputation and customer service quality of different providers, ensuring a smooth and positive experience.
It is always wise to seek independent financial advice before making a decision.
Key Comparison Points and Considerations When Considering Equity Release Quotes
When considering equity release quotes, key comparison points and considerations include interest rates and Loan-to-Value ratios, among other factors.
A brief explanation of each of these factors:
- Interest rates: Lower rates mean less to repay over time.
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio: This determines the maximum borrowing amount against your home’s value.
- Early repayment charges (ERCs): These are fees for repaying the loan early, and they vary among lenders.10
- Product features: Assess repayment options, flexibility to move the plan, and make sure a No Negative Equity Guarantee’s included.11
- Reputation and reliability: Check independent reviews to gauge reliability and customer service.
- Flexibility: Decide whether you need a plan with a drawdown option for flexible access to funds.
- Regulation: Ensure the provider is authorised and regulated in the UK by the FCA and is a member of the Equity Release Council for consumer protection.
Assessing providers based on these criteria may help you find a suitable plan.
Remember:
Consulting an equity release broker or advisor is crucial for navigating complexities and understanding the agreement.
Consider:
Market conditions, changes to the Bank of England base rate, and lenders’ business models also affect interest rates.
What is more, products with flexible features may have higher interest rates.
Common Questions
In Conclusion
Understanding equity release quotes is crucial for navigating the process and securing favourable terms.
Factors such as age, property value, outstanding mortgage, property type, location, and health status influence the amount you can release.
Comparing providers can potentially lead to competitive rates and favourable conditions.
Equity release is a significant decision impacting your financial future and inheritance, so seek professional advice before proceeding.
Always ensure you fully understand the terms, conditions, and long-term implications of your equity release quote before making a commitment.
Looking for a clearer understanding of the terms mentioned in this article? Explore our Equity Release Glossary — your quick, jargon-free guide to all the key concepts, so you can feel confident and informed every step of the way.
