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What's Martin Lewis Best Advice on
Equity Release & Lifetime Mortgages?
MSE Review: 04/2025
*5 Mins Read
*Article: Equity Release Martin Lewis Lifetime Mortgages for Retirement?
What's Martin Lewis say on Equity Release Lifetime Mortgages?
In this Equity Release Martin Lewis Lifetime Mortgage Money Saver Expert Tips review guide - we will look at these keys areas & more....Does Martin Lewis recommend Equity Release & Lifetime mortgages? What are they & any other later life MSE Retirement Mortgages best to consider? Whom qualified to ideally discuss & buy these Mortgage finance types with?
*Retirement Mortgages is Martin Lewis Equity Release?
Does Martin Lewis recommend Equity Release?
MSE Martin Lewis Equity Release says YES đŻ 100% it's something that 100,000's of UK households have done IF they're struggling for cash OR want a more comfortable retirement? BUT Equity Release for those over 55 or retired has long-term implications.
In this review, we therefore look at Retirement Mortgages & Does Money Saving Expert Recommend Equity Release & Lifetime Mortgages?
Also, what is Equity Release Martin Lewis views & what the MSE expert thinks are those key questions to firstly consider here, with their typical balanced view on financial matters.
MoneySavingExpert acknowledges many UK Homeowners do already use Equity Release to typically unlock billions in cash from their properties each year.
So therefore it makes sense for him to comment on this area, and see whereby MSE may possibly save you money by say switching to a better deal.
MSE also says, if that's you & you've already got a Equity Release 'Lifetime Mortgage' and currently charged a interest rate higher than what's available today? It might be possible to save ÂŁ10,000s & check if it's worth it.
Before any later life mortgages Martin Lewis may mention, they also offer up various alternatives to firstly consider, like downsizing your property.
They offer this up as generally he remarks Equity Release Lifetime Mortgages can be typically a more expensive way to raise cash, with associated costs involved to consider.
MSE says according to those numerous adverts we may have all seen on the TV, radio or papers..."The easiest solution they say is to equity-release if you are over age 55, own your own home, but struggling for cash and want a more comfortable retirement"
The question he asks & answers in their Money Savings Expert (MSE) Equity Release review is what actually is it?...and what are their main Pros + Cons?
'Martin Lewis Equity Release Advice' Review
House = ÂŁ475,000 | Mortgage = ÂŁ75,000 | Equity = ÂŁ400,000
In terms of the large range of Equity Release products available, Money Saving Expert are fully impartial with all their best buy reviews. As you maybe aware, neither Martin nor MSE never endorse products.
Note: Yes, they mention individual products & services on MSE site, but they make it very clear don't 'support' them.
Therefore to also make it clear, this is our own Independant Broker review on MSE Martin Lewis' Guide to Equity Release ie; Retirement Mortgages Martin Lewis views. With our own professional FCA Regulated Advisers commenting therefore on aspects of their overall review.
As many people respect & follow their Money Saving Expert opinions, they always say if sure (or unsure & need advice) you speak to a qualified Equity Release Broker.
Martin Lewis on Equity Release - The Money Saving Expert
Who is Martin Lewis CBE & OBE? He's one the UK's renowned Financial Experts & a successful Reporter. Martin Lewis is the well known founder of the online website Money Saving Expert (MSE), which he remains executive chairman.
Martin Lewis also has his own regular current affairs TV Money Show, usually on ITV. These shows may include money savings expert Martin Lewis Equity Release advice and other Finance aspects, were all initially broadcast after the London Olympics back in 2012.
Martin Lewis is now often seen or heard on his Podcast commenting on all different UK and world current financial matters. Or appearing on daytime TV, Martin Lewis equity release mortgages advice on This Morning is often watched, being the popular go to person for some sound financial advice.
In 2012, his popular Money Saving Expert website was reportedly also sold to The Money Supermarket.Com group for ÂŁ87 million.
Martin Lewis in these challenging 2020âs is therefore our all round UK Consumer Champion for his respected in depth finance opinions.
However, his undoubted success today in 2025 hides a very sad story from his past, which he emotionally & honestly explains further in this BBC Podcast >
Martin Lewis sadly told of his own life story, where at only aged 11 he unfortunately lost his late Mother Susan Lewis, in a tragic road accident.
What happened to Martin Lewis as a Child then reportedly left him emotionally unable to sometimes leave his own house - for upto 6 years (Times Newspaper Article).
Except for going to school, this emotional impact left him he said looking back with both extreme anxiety & trauma.
As such, Martin Lewis illness mentally as a teenager back then & during some darker days says he sometimes âstruggled to even get out of bedâ.
The tragedy & the longer term impact of someone losing a parent so young into their lives, whether this be financial, psychological or both.
As such today he says 'Financial problems and mental health issues are locked together â itâs about time treatments were linked too', urges Money and Mental Health Policy Institute & its chair founder Martin Lewis.
This then means that he can also speak now with some authority around the subject of mental health & where he also explores the link with finances and money management.
Some of these Martin Lewis' Money Management books shown below are all therefore well worth a read, especially in this ongoing cost of living crisis.
Important Note: This overview on Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis on Equity Release or 'Lifetime Mortgage Martin Lewis' guide is not a scam fake advert re MSE recommending our own broker services. As you may be aware he & MSE are impartial. Therefore he does not endorse any particular products. Any Martin Lewis Money video's shown may have some out of date information on them - due to the ongoing cost of living crisis. Often these equity release MoneySavingExpert articles may no longer be personally updated or written by Martin Lewis himself. MSE do state he oversees site content, especially the MSE weekly email. Naturally, although MSE is an independant website finance allows noadvertising nor subscription, it may receive a revenue via 'affiliate links' to the top products or providers (which we aren't mentioned)
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*What are the Main Types of Equity Release?
There are 3 main types of equity release available, with some product variations MSE says and all these are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Lifetime Mortgages
- Home Reversion plans
- Retirement Interest Only RIO
The *Equity Release Council says it involves releasing money (or equity) tax free from your home but whilst you are still living there. ie; Over 55's + later life lending.
MSE points out that well over 300,000 UK households have done some form of equity release or lifetime mortgages since 2011. As brokers, we concur that the Equity Release market is on the rise in the 2020's.
But while UK interest rates are now rising (compared to past years), comments Martin Lewis equity release schemes themselves are he says still an expensive & risky way to raise cash.
Note: The reason why as brokers we see many people initially make an inquiry about having an equity release lifetime mortgage - is that typically for one reason or another...
- Don't have sufficient in their savings & investments
- Don't have a large enough pension pot to see you through their retirement
- Donât wish to move home or downsize properties
- Do want to repay debts
- Do want to go on those holidays of a lifetime
- Do want to make home adaptations suitable for older age
Please note: There are less UK providers in the market place involved in this area, than mainstream style mortgages...so you may need to seek advice from someone who can access a multitude of finance partners.
As Equity Release finance brokers we are Whole Market specialists (ERC members) who may help & guide you through the equity release & lifetime mortgages maze.
Unsure, need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
Let's now go over his equity release money saving expert key points you may need to consider. MSE explains those different types of schemes available, their pros & cons (or alternatives) which we will review below.
Compare UK Lenders Top Deals >
Martin Lewis on Equity Release v Downsize Property?
If looking into Equity Release Martin Lewis on Lifetime Mortgages says you should firstly evaluate whether downsizing your property could be an useful option instead? He says Equity Release certainly is not something to be taken on lightly.
He remarks quite rightly you could always sell up, and then down size on to a smaller home? This means you could hopefully live off the excess cash you have just made. 'Sounds' all great for some.
You may also find that the new property is also more suitable as you get older ie; You currently live in a 3 storey town house, so now want fewer stairs perhaps. Or maybe a bungalow, with no stairs at all.
- If downsizing is right for you (Don't put it off)
- People in their 60's often say to me (We will do it - in a few years)
- A few years later it's still (We're not ready - just yet)
- Then after that it is....(We are now too old - to move house)
Martin Lewis, the ever practical person he is....says 'If downsizing is right for you', then consider selling your home and doing it sooner - rather than later...
Having said that, he also caveats that if it is a family home or an area where you may have lived for years, you also may have many friends & ties into that local community.
Martin Lewis says please do not underestimate the personal & social impact of moving away - especially if you can only afford to downsize well away from that area.
Commenting away from retirement mortgages Martin Lewis says, I would say that moving home can also be (for some people) one of most emotional and stressful things in life?
No wonder some people may understand what their downsizing point maybe... BUT they still don't want to do it.
As brokers, we would also add that according to research 4 out of 5 homeowners say they would rather stay in their homes than downsize *Standard Life & Age Partnership.
Here are what many of our own clients say are probably their Top 5 'Life Stress' events...
- Death
- Divorce & Separation
- Unemployment
- Accident & Illness
- Moving Home
On top of this, the financial costs to move he says can also be high, with various agent fees and your removal costs to factor in. So therefore you will still need money to potentially finance this downsizing property option move anyway initially.
Their money savings expert selling your home guide also has more helpful info & tips on what's involved when selling your property.
Money Saving Expert does not mention this in their article here. However, as finance brokers another couple of other money raising options to maybe consider?
- Rent a spare room (earn up to ÂŁ7,500 per year tax-free threshold & let out furnished room in your home)
- Go back to work part-time (older person work support)
Unsure, need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
Does Martin Lewis recommend Equity Release?
How does Equity Release work?
For Equity Release Martin Lewis on retirement mortgages points out is a way to unlock the value of your domestic property and then turn it into cash. You do not need to have even fully paid off your mortgage to help do this.
You can action this process via a number of policies. These may then let you access or 'release' this equity (cash) tied up in your home, but only if you are aged 55+.
As a rule, you can either take the money you release
- One lump sum
- Smaller amounts over time (known as drawdown)
- Combination of both
Since 2020, nearly ÂŁ5bn of property wealth was turned into cash via various equity release schemes.
Yet Martin Lewis Equity Release advice is to make sure you do it in the right way. If you get equity release wrong, he says it can prove very expensive as various examples seen.
The most common form is an equity release mortgage that is not paid off until you die or the property is sold. So if you had no one to leave your assets to, Martin Lewis think this is a decent, though expensive, route to raise cash.
If you do have people to pass your property assets to, then for any retirement mortgage Martin Lewis says an equity release mortgage generally means there will be less for them to inherit.
Then again he does point out fairly, it is your own property and money; So you can prioritise your own standard of living at that stage of your life.
Unsure about all these points & options raised so far on later life mortgages by Martin Lewis?
If you therefore wondering how much you could raise & need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? ( ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
Equity Release Typical Uses?
What are costs for Equity Release Martin Lewis asks?
Martin Lewis does not simplify this review section by just stating that the initial & main ongoing costs for equity release will be based around....
- Product taken
- Interest rates
- Whether or not repayments are made
- Plus the initial set up fees.
Average interest rates on a lifetime mortgage Martin Lewis says are currently substantially higher than the top rates on a normal residential mortgage.
Typical rates we may see as brokers can vary between around 5% to 6%. This he points out is low compared to say 10 years ago.
He also says that just because a lifetime mortgage deal has a lower interest rate, this does not always mean it is also the best deal for you.
When weighing up which equity release product would suit you best, the key Martin Lewis says is to remember that the eye-watering price-tag cost your estate would have to repay comes 'if you have chosen NOT to make any monthly repayments to reduce the debt' ie; your mortgage interest compounds & compounds.
He gives an example to clearly point out the impact if you decided you wanted to do equity release via a lifetime mortgage. However, more importantly you choose that you do not want to make any monthly interest payments.
Note; We have doubled their example figures via money savings expert equity release review, which has also been illustrated via YBS website Our Money Movement to amplify its impact.
Example: Equity Release Mortgage BUT with No Interest or Capital Repayments
You decide to borrow ÂŁ40,000 aged 60 at 5.1% on a ÂŁ240,000 home. The amount you owe doubles roughly every 14 years, as you made no repayments.
So if you lived until 74 (you now owe around ÂŁ80,000). Or you live until age 88....and therefore (you now owe ÂŁ160,000) etc; Average life Expectancy in the UK is early 80's.
As well as the actual cost of the ongoing mortgage interest, you will have to pay a number of set up fees & costs.
So Martin Lewis Equity Release reviews & calculates this will likely set you back between ÂŁ1,500 > ÂŁ3,000, depending on the type of lifetime mortgage or home reversion plan being arranged.
You must also take into account any finance broker fees for their time in helping you. These are usually a percentage of the overall loan amount of between 1%> 2%) which maybe extra to above arrangement & valuation costs, plus fees for legal work involved and surveyor costs.
Or in other words, as finance brokers we would add to MSE comments and say this is not a total fees free process.
We would add like Money Saving Expert does, please ensure you have always had clearly explained beforehand - all those likely current & future cost implications.
For example: Horror stories MSE also shared on their various social media platforms can sometimes happen when the close family - Only later on find out that any likely property legacy is much lower than they had expected.
As such, we say ideally get your Family involved in this Equity Release process IF you feel it's relevant for your personal circumstances AND may impact any 'expected inheritance'.
Let's look now at the various Equity Release types Martin Lewis reviews & available to free up cash; which fall into a couple of different camps:-
What does Martin Lewis say on Lifetime Mortgages?
Lifetime Mortgages Martin Lewis says đŻ 100% are now the most popular form of equity release in the UK for aged 55+ and those retired. Here you borrow some of your home's value at either a fixed or capped interest rate.
You can either take the monies for a lifetime mortgage Martin Lewis comments, all at once in one big lump sum. Or alternatively, he says you can take it instead via drawdown on smaller chunks 'as and when you need it' preferably.
He says, if you should choose 'the drawdown option' route, then mortgage interest will only be charged upon the cash you have actually taken. You will NOT pay any compound interest on the money you are still yet to draw-down, which makes sense.
Top 5 Reasons for Equity Release*
| 1] Home Improvements |
| 2] Mortgage Repayment |
| 3] Holidays & Large Purchase |
| 4] Early Kids Inheritance |
| 5] Supplement Incomes & Repay Debts |
Retirement Mortgages Martin Lewis Lifetime Mortgages Guide
With both forms of lifetime mortgage, Martin Lewis strongly remarks that IF you do not make any repayments, then that 'mortgage interest' will compound rapidly, as the amounts that you owe - are increasing all the time
These days however, Martin Lewis on Lifetime Mortgages forums debate that (unlike some past deals) you are now allowed by various UK Lenders to make regular repayments.
This means in 2025 - that your equity release market choices are perhaps wider here than before. All meaning therefore it can better help your overall retirement mortgages decision making process.
Naturally, all deals affected by any mortgage repayment on death time frames & so average UK life expectancy. OR alternatively repaid upon going into care and the property being sold (with various MSE forums debating the impact of those potential care costs).
Unsure, need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
Example: Equity Release Mortgage Calculator | Lifetime Compound 5% Interest
| Amount Borrowed | Time Period | Average Interest Roll-Up |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | Day 1 | ÂŁ100,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 5 years | ÂŁ128,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 10 years | ÂŁ164,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 15 years | ÂŁ210,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 20 years | ÂŁ270,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 25 years | ÂŁ348,000 |
| *ÂŁ100,000 | 30 years | ÂŁ446,000 |
Broker Example: Base compound interest 5% rate, *ÂŁ100,000 equity released full amount borrowed drawn down vs average 'interest on interest' roll-up MER/AER. No capital or interest repaid, or charges or fees. Calculator averages on time periods via lifetime mortgage
Retirement Mortgages Martin Lewis?
Retirement Interest Only (RIO) or Retirement Mortgages Martin Lewis MSE points out - are very similar to lifetime mortgages. But here you MUST đŻ 100% make monthly payments - repaying interest on money borrowed. Commenting that whilst Retirement Interest Only mortgages aren't a specific form of equity release, they are very similar in concept.
Explaining further here, whereby an RIO mortgage can give you that Lump Sum of Cash you may need AND all secured against the value of your property.
Importantly, so long as you have a stable monthly income into the future, Martin Lewis says that these mortgages for the retired can be a good way of releasing equity in a home. AND that you can get one, even if you have got an existing mortgage outstanding.
Like lifetime mortgages, they are generally only available to those over-55s. MSE noting, that you will be charged interest on what you borrow. But unlike a lifetime mortgage, with RIO mortgages you MUST pay off that interest each month (plus you can usually choose to make any overpayments too).
Interest Only Martin Lewis Retirement Mortgages RIO Guide
Provided you can afford those regular monthly repayments, this can potentially work out cheaper overall than a lifetime mortgage - because you are paying off the interest each month. As such, they say interest is only ever being charged onto your original loan amount.
Whereas as MSE remarks, with a lifetime mortgage that interest will compound monthly - unless you choose to pay it off regularly each month. In which case, it would be no more expensive than a RIO. We would add as brokers here, that would all still be subject to the lenders deal if comparing like for like on monthly interest repayments.
Because you have to make repayments with a Retirement Interest Only mortgage, Martin Lewis say you will need to pass that later life lenders affordability tests to get one. RIOs can also be used to replace any existing mortgage eg; standard interest-only mortgage.
As always, bear in mind we say as brokers that as interest rates can rise, as well as fall here ie; IF you have chosen a variable interest rate RIO retirement mortgage product - those monthly payments could rise as well as fall also & must still be made into the future re mortgages for pensioners or retired (like any normal mortgage).
As such, as these RIO plans are still based on affordability into retirement - they're usually stress tested on 1'st death for any couple (all based on that spouse with the highest income levels passing away first).
That means this mortgage type we find in reality could be a harder broker deal to get for those couples, particularly with unequal retirement pension incomes. BUT maybe easier for a single person.
âOn top of this, there is often no real flexibility in repayments with a RIO and is more of a one off lump sum. Also often here, you cannot access further funds into the future via this RIO route.
The amount you can borrow here is all normally dependent upon ...
- Age
- Property type
- RIO youâre applying for.
How much you can borrow MSE says is typically capped at around 60% loan-to-value (LTV) â but this applies to lifetime mortgages too.
While Retirement Interest Only mortgages can come with the option to port (allowing you to take that RIO mortgage with you to another property), they concurrently don't have downsizing protection (unlike many lifetime mortgages).
So, he points out you are therefore not protected from early repayment charges ERC - if for example the property you are moving to - is not acceptable to the lender.
From a mortgage brokers perspective & the FCA Consumer Duty on treating customers fairly, this RIO option ensures that you the customer - can therefore help keep a better control on your mortgage borrowing. The money savings expert lifetime mortgage forums debate these various points.
Naturally as brokers, we see the initial attraction in retirement of RIO style mortgages for some, is their lower monthly payments than traditional repayment loans - Because you are only making up interest payments. Also, although therefore not paying off the main capital part of the loan, so long as all payments are kept up - likewise that debt's not increasing.
This is important for those that potentially may wish to leave their loved ones a legacy asset via their property. They therefore don't want any interest role up here, all meaning their property values could be eaten up quicker by their retirement mortgage choice.
We would point out that MoneySavingExpert don't mention looking into covering this RIO option with mortgage lifecover protection, which may help ensure the capital is either fully or partially repaid upon death.
Please note ALL These variables when discussing with your specialist mortgage broker your best options here for regular repayments. These can be either...
- Repayment of the Mortgage Capital
- Or just repay the Mortgage Interest
- Both means you can help reduce the overall costs
Typically, the Lender can place a cap on the amount you can overpay by, normally 10% of the loan value each year.
Most of these later life retirement mortgage types are generally different from standard mortgages martin lewis points out.
In conclusion, we agree with Money Saving Expert that RIO's do have some similar benefits to lifetime mortgages but here you MUST both be in a position financially (ie; for both parties) to continue to make those monthly payments into retirement & more importantly - upon that 1'st major pension breadwinners' death. This point isn't really commented upon by the Money Saving Expert team.
Unsure, need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
* Martin Lewis on Home Reversion plans Aged 60+
Home Reversion is different than these other options. It's where a mortgage lender pays you a tax-free lump sum but for a portion of your home & importantly - at a rate below its market value.
You can then continue to live in your property (rent-free) until you die. When your property is then sold, any sale proceeds are then split, based upon the % percentage you own and the % percentage the mortgage lender owns. So if your property value then rises significantly, Martin Lewis on equity release home reversion plans says...so does the amount the lender then gets.
For example, if you sell a 40% share in a ÂŁ400,000 property in return for a lump sum of ÂŁ80,000, this cash you receive is at a huge discount to the ÂŁ160,000 this share is actually worth (at current market prices) â mainly because the provider will have to wait many years to get its money back.
Years later, when you die, if your home is eventually sold for ÂŁ750,000, the provider would then be entitled to ÂŁ300,000, which is equivalent to 40% of the sale proceeds.
So home reversion plans are better if uk property prices stay flatter, and worse if property values rise substantially.
In many cases, a home reversion plan can potentially work out to be more expensive than a lifetime mortgage. The money savings expert home equity release forums are full of people discussing all these issues.
As brokers, we would add you may also wish to consider Over 60's Life Insurance Martin Lewis doesn't comment on, to maybe help protect some of this downside equity risk?
Unsure which retirement mortgages scheme option fits best & need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
To sum up so far on our retirement mortgage Martin Lewis Equity Release schemes review, here are what we as Brokers think are some of the main pro's & cons the Money Saving Expert has highlighted...
EQUITY RELEASE Schemes | 10 PRO'S
- Access some of the equity value tied up in your property
- Funds paid as a tax-free cash lump sum or regular smaller payments
- Home Reversion enables you to continue to live in your home
- Lifetime mortgage also means you continue to own your own home
- Property only sold once you pass on or go into long-term care
- Lifetime mortgage lets you pay interest & capital to maintain control
- No Negative Equity Guarantee means you never owe more than the value of your home once sold
- Benefit from any rise in the value of your property
- Many equity release schemes later life mortgages are transferable
- Move or Downsize to another future property & pay off lifetime mortgage
EQUITY RELEASE Schemes | 10 CON'S
- The home reversion company would own all or a proportion of your property
- Lifetime mortgage interest charged is compounded or added up over the loan term
- A lifetime mortgage debt may increase rapidly if not repaid from your income
- If you choose to repay interest or capital there are often limits
- Receiving a lump sum may also reduce any entitlement to any means-tested benefits
- Eligibility for specific local council-funded care services could now be affected
- The younger you are then the less you could borrow or capital raise
- Pension credits or any council tax support could also be affected
- May end up with less property inheritance to leave to your loved ones
- If you pay back the full amount owed early you may have Early Repayment Charges
The amounts you can release all depends on several factors, including your age at outset, the value of your property, any medical conditions, and the type of later life plan you choose. Typically, those older homeowners and with higher-value properties can release more capital.
Unsure, need suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
Remortgage & Equity Release Martin Lewis | Under & Over 55's
In the UK, equity release schemes for lifetime mortgages Martin Lewis says đŻ 100% are available to those aged 55 and over ie; maybe not at retirement as yet.
However, if you are a homeowner who is 'under 55' and you cannot wait several years, as you are in a more pressing financial need, what should you do?
Remortgaging he says is often a good way of lowering what you pay towards your mortgage each month...AND in some cases you might be able to raise further cash against your property.
In recent years, several UK mortgage lenders have also increased their application upper age limits when it comes to who is able to apply for a mortgage.
So he says if you are an older homeowner (over 55+) but not interested in equity release, do not automatically assume you would not be eligible for a standard mortgage.
Either way, 'Martin Lewis on lifetime mortgages' says are not your thing, then it is worth seeking out professional advice via a broker about the possibility of remortgaging instead, rather than say a secured loan, which MSE are not big fans of.
Unsure, need a suitably qualified FCA regulated brokers help? (that are ERC members) Please Contact Us >>
'Equity Release Martin Lewis' 4 Top Tips?
1. DO NOT Borrow all you need in one go!
Martin Lewis says the sooner you decide to borrow, the more expensive it becomes, as the mortgage interest has longer time to compound up. So, only borrow as little as you need now....and then wait as long as you can (but only if you want to do it again).
As brokers we say if this is the route you chose to go down, we may agree that Drawdown lifetime mortgages are set up to make this a little easier. For example, he says if you think you may need ÂŁ40,000 from your home to cover 20 years, only take what you need now and then wait to take more until needed.
2. You will need Professional Advice BEFORE you Equity Release
Before applying for any lifetime mortgage or home reversion plan, Money Saving Expert says you will first need to seek advice from a suitably qualified professional equity release adviser. This he points out is a requirement of the Financial Conduct Authority FCA.
A qualified mortgage broker MSE says are worth their weight in gold so will be able to compare equity release deals from across the uk market. Again, we point out that Martin Lewis on Equity Release is not recommending our particular services here in this review.
However, by getting independant advice this means you should get the best advice & be recommended products tailored to your circumstances.
He says that you might want to consider using an adviser that is also a member of the Equity Release Council
Do note that most general financial advisers cannot advise on equity release (unless they are qualified to do so). Note for reference: Our brokers are suitably qualified for equity release & also members of Equity Release council.
If you think that remortgaging is a better option, he says it is often best to speak instead with a general mortgage broker.
We say as brokers, you cannot ask any old mortgage broker (if not suitably qualified) to then compare a remortgage v advice on equity release schemes.
3. ENSURE Providers if chosen are Equity Release Council approved
Martin Lewis comments that The Equity Release Council (ERC) is a UK body that exists to ensure both equity release lenders & advisers provide the highest possible standards to borrowers.
Lenders who are members of this ERC may be allowed to carry its Trust Mark. They must abide by their certain rules & regulations eg; the 'no negative equity' guarantee, which means your estate will never owe more than your home is worth.
So Martin Lewis says if you are seriously considering any lifetime mortgages or home reversion plans, make sure it is one from a lender that is an ERC member (virtually all equity release lenders are anyway).
If it is, then you will also need to arrange for legal advice from a solicitor. Their job is to ensure you fully understand the legal and financial pros & cons and implications of equity release. One of these meetings with your solicitor will have to be legally face-to-face.
As well as lenders, he says that both solicitors and financial advisers can also be members of the ERC (of which are brokers are).
4. BE AWARE that Equity Release can affect any State Benefits
Importantly Martin Lewis says that having cash (rather than a property) can affect any UK state benefits you maybe entitled to.
For example, government pension credit, universal credit and others. So if you are entitled to those, check the impact of equity release Martin Lewis says first.
If you are unsure, he says always ask an equity release adviser to check what that impact could possibly be before proceeding.
Equity Release & Tenants in Common
MSE also does not touch on this subject of tenants in common (other than in MSE forums) in their 'Martin Lewis on Lifetime Mortgages' article. However, as brokers we think it is important subject to now discuss here.
If your property is held joint tenancy already, then this section should not really concern you. However, if it is instead % co-owned with another person under tenants in common (or tenancy in common), you may still be able to get an equity release mortgage. However, we will now touch on the future implications of this decision.
Where properties are % co-owned under tenancy in common, then any equity release application must be made in both their joint names. One co-owner/person cannot take out equity release upon their share of the property alone. It requires both parties to co-sanction.
So what happens if 1 person dies? Well, upon the death of the first tenant/owner or borrower, your equity release lender may then restrict future changes to your existing scheme. This may also include any further access to borrowing future monies. It all depends on the terms of their will.
For example under a tenants in common property ownership, upon the death of one co-owner, their share of the property is then left according to their Will (strongly recommended to make one, if you have not done so as yet)
Assuming their Will then says that their share of the property is willed to their surviving owner, then there is little impact on their equity release scheme.
However, if their Will then states that their % share is willed to another 3rd party, or parties, then potentially there could be issues to their ongoing equity release plan.
In this situation, their equity release lender could possibly then
- Refuse any further borrowing (secured on their property)
- Cancel access to any drawdown facilities (if in place)
So, as brokers we would say it is important that you consider the impact financially upon the 1'st death, upon any joint equity release lifetime mortgage application. Plus all parties making a will & each understanding the others wishes.
What happens if partner has already died re a Tenants in Common property ?
Again, this subject impact on tenancy in common is not touched on in their equity release review. So please note, most equity release lenders currently will not entertain any application, unless legally their title deeds are now amended to remove the deceased tenant % co-owner.
Legally, the late owners Will is then needed by the equity release lenders, to show how they wished for their % co-owned share in their property to be distributed.
If their estate has already been executed through probate, the surviving person hopefully should know what their deceased partner wanted to happen.
Where their % share is clearly stated and willed to their survivor, an equity release application can be potentially submitted. The land registry may be updated separately to the equity release application.
Alternatively, this now maybe done as part of the process by your nominated solicitors (for a fee).
It may be also that after reading up on this subject, you then decide to legally remove any tenancy in common restriction from the title deeds? This is your choice, but should be perhaps discussed with family members who maybe impacted by your financial decisions.
We would recommend that should you go direct to an equity release provider, you then discuss these areas with them and any legal advisers.
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Mortgage Protection 'Equity Release Insurance'?
One of things they do not mention specifically in their money saving expert equity release articles...is also considering at least mortgage life insurance. As brokers, we were surprised by this omission.
This could ensure that if you died, then the mortgage debt could be repaid also. You could choose either then, would this equity release mortgage be repaid fully or just in part?
The life cover amount could depend on whether you made mortgage payments to cover the interest, so the debt remains static ie; level mortgage lifecover. Or harder to calculate, if the mortgage is not repaid, so the debt compounds ie; increasing mortgage lifecover.
You would have the option of mortgage whole life assurance (which will always payout, even if you lived passed age 100+). Or alternatively, a mortgage level term life insurance policy (but these plans generally last upto age 90 only & finish then).
Dependant upon how your retirement mortgage style is structured - You could choose to take the life policy out in your sole name, joint names 1'st death or 2'nd death.
For more information on their overall MSE life insurance types available, OR alternatively check out our broker Martin Lewis on Life Insurance review.
Perhaps less relevant for some due to costs or any health issues in retirement - view MSE on critical illness also. Get Free Broker Term Life Quotes in >> 15 Secs.
Equity Release and Inheritance Tax?
Another thing they do not really go into any detail in the Martin Lewis equity release article is MSE views on IHT re this perspective ie; UK Inheritance Tax on properties.
This subject (considering its financial impact) has become a political hot potato amongst many UK Governments, with farmers estates & their properties now drawn into the circle.
Your property is perhaps the largest asset you will own? If you are looking at equity release anyway, it maybe because you have no other large assets, investments, savings or cash in the bank?
As such, it will probably represent the majority of your estate when you die. So if you release equity from your home, does it therefore also reduce your inheritance tax liability?
YES, Equity release does 'potentially' reduce the overall value of your estate. So by releasing equity you could therefore be also reducing your Inheritance Tax (IHT) liability bill when you die.
BUT, it is not that simple and there are a few things to also consider...
- Valuing an Estate (depends on Government rules)
- Inherited Property (rules with a lifetime mortgage)
- 7 years IHT Gifts Rule (if you died within 7 years after gifting)
- IHT Property Thresholds (if you died before any spending or gifting)
- Gift Property Away but live there still (gift with reservation rules may apply)
So as brokers, we are NOT saying we recommend equity release as an inheritance tax tool. BUT it is a consequence of taking out an equity release product. Please seek legal advice on all these aspects if they concern you.
Do I need a Portable Deal?
MSE confirm that these days most lifetime mortgages are portable. This means in theory you should be able to take your lifetime mortgage, with you should you decide to move home in future.
However in practice, some equity release lenders tend to have fairly strict criteria about what properties they are (or not) willing to lend on. This might restrict you.
Properties that you would unlikely be able to port your lifetime mortgage across to would include:
- Studio Flats
- Basement flats
- Housing authority block of more than 4 storeys
- Flats of maisonettes in a local authority
- Retirement properties
- Static Homes
- Mobile homes
- Houseboats
- Farms
- Hotels
- Guest houses
- B&Bs
As brokers we would agree with their comments that the issue of portability is especially relevant, if you believe it is more than likely you will move at some point either before you die, or moved into long-term care.
Bottom line is check that the lifetime mortgage you maybe getting is portable and when the equity release lender allows this process.
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What is Downsizing Protection?
Many lifetime mortgage equity release deals come with a feature known as downsizing protection. This ensures that should you downsize, you will not be charged an early repayment exit fee.
This means you may possibly wish to downsize property sometime in future (to a lower value home & not just size wise). However, to do so means you would need to partially or fully repay your lifetime mortgage.
With downsizing protection you would be able to move and repay the existing loan, without no early exit fees.
There maybe various reasons however that you might need to partially or fully repay the loan. This could include the new property not fitting your equity release lender's porting criteria (see above).
Or alternatively the lender being unwilling to lend as much money on the new property you have chosen.
To qualify, you will need to have the strong intention of taking your existing lifetime mortgage with you to the new property (in other words, you would want to port the lifetime mortgage).
Also if considering switching lifetime mortgage deals, if moving home is now something you believe is a possibility in future, then they recommend you check the new deal comes with downsizing protection.
WE also say as brokers, don't confuse the wording downsize protection with mortgage protection ie; lifecover helping protect the equity release or lifetime mortgage taken.
*Can you save ÂŁ1000's switching Equity Release Mortgages?
Money Saving Expert (MSE) state that UK homeowners used equity release to unlock around ÂŁ5 billion in cash from property each year.
Have you in the past taken the plunge with a lifetime mortgage but it was setup on a high interest rate?
In their Tops Tips MSE state you may be able to save ÂŁ1,000's by switching to a new equity release deal.
We will analyse their pros & cons guide here. MSE show you their top tips & how they may help you figure out if you personally could switch and save?
Equity Release Types | Martin Lewis Lifetime Mortgage v Home Reversion
There are some key differences between these two plans. As such, it will determine whether or not you could possibly switch & save asks Martin Lewis equity release schemes article review.
If you have a lifetime mortgage, then even after any equity release, you still retain ownership of your own home.
However, with a home reversion plan, the sale of your home (or part of your home) to a lender is then exchanged for a cash lump sum or a regular income for life.
As such, Money Saving Expert says with home reversion (unlike with lifetime mortgages) you unfortunately have no option to switch & save on home reversion plans.
| Product Features | Lifetime Mortgage | Home Reversion |
 | | |
| Are you charged interest? |  | X |
| Can you make monthly repayments? | | X |
| Did you get cash in exchange for selling part of your home? | X | |
Why you 'might' be able to switch & save
If you are not making repayments, the interest on your lifetime mortgage compounds. This compounding factor is made worse by higher interest rates that were common 10+ years ago.
This means that by the time the lifetime mortgage needs to be repaid, what you now owe could be a far cry from the amount you originally took out. The idea behind any equity release plan is that you only need to repay it when you die.
The article review says switching to a new lifetime mortgage with a cheaper interest rate could cut ÂŁ1,000's off the amount that you (or your relatives) need to repay when you died, or when you go in to long-term care.
Over years & decades, a difference of say 2% (or even 1%) can make a huge difference to what you owe.
Example of Interest Savings
- Imagine you had borrowed ÂŁ50,000 at an interest rate of 6%
- BUT you are making no repayments so interest is compounding
- After 10 years, your outstanding balance would be around ÂŁ90,000
- At 20 years you would owe around ÂŁ165,000
But, now imagine if you had switched to a deal charging a lower 4.5% after the first 10 years.
- Now you (or your estate) would owe around ÂŁ140,000 after 20 years
- This is ÂŁ25,000 less than if you'd been paying 6% interest the entire time
If you have had an equity release lifetime mortgage for a long time, but you now owe more than 60% of your home's value, then MSE say it is unlikely you could get a new lifetime mortgage to replace it.
Note: This MSE Martin Lewis on Lifetime Mortgages review was written before interest rates have started to risen again in the 2020's. As such, it could be there is a lesser rate advantage at the time you are reading this.
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Equity Release Martin Lewis Guide
MSE asks 'Should you switch Lifetime Mortgage Providers'?
Step 1: Check how much you owe, current interest rate (and any fees to leave)
MSE says typically this information is likely to be on the last mortgage statement you got from your lender.
However, you may want to call them to get the most up-to-date figures (which will include)
- How much you currently owe. This will be a larger amount than you borrowed when you took out the deal as you will have been charged interest since (unless you're making repayments to pay off the interest).
- What the interest rate is. Many older deals will have interest rates between 6% and 9% a year. Find (or ask) what yours is.
- What fees you'd need to pay if you paid off (switched) your lifetime mortgage now. This is often called an 'Early Repayment Charge' and is usually a percentage of your original loan amount or outstanding balance, often between 0% to 5% (though it can be more).
Step 2. Check out what a new lifetime mortgage could cost
Note he says that any interest rate will depend upon your age, amount you wanted to borrow, and your property type. Below are typical costs to consider if swapping providers.
- Application (or arrangement) fees â between ÂŁ0 > ÂŁ500
- Valuation fees â between ÂŁ200 > ÂŁ500
- Adviser fees â between ÂŁ0 > ÂŁ1,000+
- Legal fees â around ÂŁ500
Step 3: Use Equity Release Martin Lewis MSE calculator to see when you may start to save by switching
The *Martin Lewis Equity Release calculator > is a very useful tool. It will enable to help you easily compare how much you would pay on your existing old deal vs how much might pay on any newer deal
It clearly takes into account potential fees & costs which you are likely to be charged for. If swopping providers for lifetime mortgages Martin Lewis has also included an option in the calculator, should you wish to add on these fees to the overall mortgage cost.
- Application fees
- Valuation fees
- Adviser fees
- Legal fees
- 'Add' these fees to the mortgage?
Their calculator will also tell you how many years or months it may take you to help offset the impact of any switching fees. After that time, Martin Lewis lifetime mortgage calculates it could be you actually start saving by being on a better interest rate.
*UK Government ONS 'Average Life Expectancy Calculator'
Step 4: Switching Deals, Will you live long enough to actually save?
As Martin Lewis on lifetime mortgages đŻ 100% says they'll need to be repaid if you die, or need long-term care (& no partner left).
If sadly this maybe 'sooner than later', then any financial benefits from switching existing equity release lifetime mortgage deals, then as MSE point out - you may not see much.
Plus you could still be paying off any set-up fees associated with old or new mortgage switches here, although most lenders may not apply any early exit fees.
Check MSE equity release calculator if interest rates have substantially risen or fallen since taking that original plan scheme out, to see if it makes any sense financially to consider a switch.
Note; If you are in a couple, married or otherwise, for clarity it's when that 2'nd person dies or moves into a care home that the lifetime mortgages Martin Lewis says is usually repaid.
Many equity release & lifetime mortgage providers do allow fairly a period of say 6 months to 1 year for the property sold with the mortgage attached (please check the T&C's).
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What does Martin Lewis say about Equity Release?
How do they work? Martin Lewis advice on Equity Release Schemes
What's the process to switch a Lifetime Mortgage deal?
MSE says initially compare the old v new deals with help from the *Martin Lewis Equity Release calculator >
If overall on balance it is likely you may live to see financial savings, then he says it may be worth investigating this further.
The process of switching any lifetime mortgage equity release deal he says is almost identical to if you were taking out a brand new lifetime mortgage.
That is also the case even if you are switching to a brand new equity release deal with your existing lender. They will just treat you as if you are a new borrower & so re-underwrite the case from the start.
The only difference here is that the cash from the new mortgage goes to pay off your old mortgage deal, rather than being given to you as cash lump sum.
He says that if you have decided switching might be right thing for you, here are you steps to get started using ideally the qualified services of those preferably carrying the Equity Release Council (ERC) TrustMark.
* Appoint an Equity Release Broker (ideally ERC Approved)
These are the 3 questions to ask, before selecting any Equity Release Broker ideally approved by the Equity Release Council (See their logo above)
- Do you offer a 'Free' initial consultation (This lets you explore if an equity release switch could work & at no cost)
- Charge 'Broker fees' to arrange the Equity Release Scheme (If so, how much)
- Access Equity Release deals from 'all UK Lenders' (You need a YES answer)
* Instructing a Solicitor
You will naturally need to appoint a solicitor to carry out the relevant legal work involved in taking out a lifetime mortgage.
MSE suggest it is best to instruct a solicitor with experience in this area of equity release and ideally who also carries the Equity Release Council Trust Mark. You can search for solicitors on the Equity Release Council website.
One of the meetings with your solicitor will also likely be face-to-face. As brokers, we say this process could be either done by you directly, recommended by the finance broker or sometimes via the lenders panel.
* Decide which Lifetime Mortgage maybe best for you
Martin Lewis says it is probably best to discuss the issue with your family & anybody else who might be relevant at this point (but you don't have to).
The equity release finance adviser should present you with the most appropriate equity release deals for your circumstances.
When picking an equity release lender, he says make sure it is one approved by the Equity Release Council. He states that virtually all lenders are BUT ask your adviser if you are unsure
Lenders with this ERC approval must then give certain guarantees
- No-negative equity guarantee
- This means your estate will never owe more than your home is worth
- The right to stay in your home until death or long-term care
- Option to move finance across properties (provided it meets certain conditions)
* Your adviser then applies for your Lifetime Mortgage
Once you have decided and agreed which equity release deal you may prefer you to apply for, you will need to fill in the Lenders application form. The equity release finance adviser should help you with this, as that is their job.
Your adviser will then send the equity release application on your behalf to the lender. This may include a cheque or bank details to cover any fees which must be paid upfront eg; application fees.
* You will hopefully then receive an Offer
You will only be sent an offer letter, once the equity release lender has finally instructed a surveyor to carry out a valuation of your property. From that they will then decide on the amount it maybe willing to let you borrow.
Your solicitor will then sit down with you to discuss the details of their offer. They must then highlight any obligations the lender specifically requires of you.
Only once this is all completed & if you are happy with this, you will then be asked to sign your equity release legal agreement.
* The funds will be released to pay off your old Lifetime Mortgage
Once all the final legal checks have been completed, the funds will be released to your solicitors. They will then transfer the monies to your old equity release lender to pay off your old lifetime mortgage.
He says, if you have done all that, you will now have a new, cheaper equity release deal. Hopefully this should see your interest rack up more slowly.
* How long does this Switching process take?
It should be around 8 week between submitting your application & then receiving the funds.
However, the process can be longer or shorter depending on your own circumstances eg; unusual property types, pandemic issues etc;
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How much Equity can you release?
The key question many people will be after is - 'How much Equity they can raise from their property'?
Whilst the maximum percentage you can borrow is typically between from 25% > 60% of the current property market value, the actual amount you can borrow is also determined by the lender's individual criteria.
UK Later Life Lenders will consider several factors - assuming you are after releasing the maximum equity possible....
- The value of your property
- Age of the youngest borrower ie; over 55 plus
- Any outstanding mortgage or debts secured on the property ie; to be repaid
- Type of property construction and overall condition
- Health and lifestyle of the homeowner
Poor Health Issues & Equity Release?
As brokers, we are sometimes asked if you maybe able to qualify to get more equity released via a lifetime mortgage IF you have poor health?
The answer maybe 'Yes' by an extra % more for some here, but then a different mortgage deal applies - than any standard retirement mortgages offered ie; keep your options open.
This will all depend on those types of medical health lifestyle issues for the lender underwriting the application ie; If your life expectancy is likely to be reduced due to poor health conditions.
Any released capital could maybe then assist with any home modifications that's mobility related eg; chairlifts, converting accommodation to live downstairs etc;
These health assessed borrowing calculations are also based upon the age of the youngest property owner and the overall property valuation.
As such, the lender gets paid back the money lent sooner rather than later. Typically health questions could be as follows & bearing in mind as we get older, things are sadly more likely to go wrong with us....
Although you may not need a medical to qualify - the lender may require medical evidence via GP reports etc;
- Smoker status
- Raised (BMI)
- Raised blood pressure or cholesterol
- Diabetic
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Parkinson's disease
- MS Multiple sclerosis
- Other ill health causing early retirement
Conclusion 'Martin Lewis on Equity Release' 2025
To sum up, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis on Equity Release later life or retirement mortgages views here - are as ever based upon the practical person he is.
He quite rightly points out that this process - may not be the right option for everyone & their circumstances.
Whether or not you remain the owner of your own home all depends he comments on the types of equity release plan you finally decide to take out.
With a lifetime mortgage, you will remain the owner of the property (although the lender will now have a registered charge on it).
Alternatively, with a home reversion style plan the lender however WILL become the owner of your home, although you will retain a beneficial interest in that property.
In both scenarios he says, you will be able to continue living in your home, and not need to repay the loan, until you either die or perhaps move into long-term care.
As brokers, overall here we found this money savings expert summary very good with all their useful hints & tips, such as....
- Start to make (or increase) repayments towards your Lifetime Mortgage
- Pay off your lifetime mortgage in full
- Downsize rather than take out Equity Release
- Switch deals if you can save money
Also, if you already have one, then consider ways of reducing the overall cost of your lifetime mortgage Martin Lewis suggests into the longer run.
So, whether you wish to go directly without advice, having read the equity release money saving expert guidance. Or instead, prefer to speak to a professional ERC broker. You payâs your money & takes your choice.
âEquity Release & Retirement Mortgages Martin Lewisâ Review 2025 by Martyn Spencer Financial Adviser
Equity Release & Lifetime Mortgages
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A Lifetime Mortgage is a long-term commitment which could accumulate interest and is secured against your home. Equity Release is not right for everyone and may reduce the value of your estate.
NOTE: YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBTS SECURED ON IT.
'There is...ONLY 1 YOU' 
