Equity release is normally available to those aged 55 and over

A RIO mortgage is similar to a standard interest-only mortgage, but in this case the loan is usually only repaid when you sell the property, die or move into long-term care. RIO mortgages usually have a minimum age requirement of 50, though some lenders may require borrowers to be 55 or 60.

With a Lifetime Mortgage, a loan is taken out on the property to provide a lump sum, an income or a combination of the two. No interest is payable until the home is sold, which could be when you and your partner have both gone into long-term care or died.

A Lifetime Mortgage with a drawdown facility allows you to take the cash in stages, as and when suits you. This gives flexibility and the reassurance that you can access further funds at some point in the future, should you need them. It is more cost-effective, as interest is only charged on funds when they are drawn down.

With a Home Reversion scheme, you sell all or part of your home in return for a tax-free lump sum or a regular income. These schemes are normally available to homeowners aged 65 and over.

You will normally receive a below-market value for your property, as you retain the right to stay in your home rent-free until you move out permanently or die.

When this happens, you or your estate will revive the value of your share from the sale proceeds. The value you receive will be the amount your home sold for, minus the share you sold to the equity release provider originally. This means you’ll know exactly what percentage of your home’s value will be left to your estate on your death.