News

11/07/2012 17:20:19

Over-50s funding home improvements with equity release

New research reveals that many over-50s are using equity release to fund home improvements.

Over-50s insurance provider Saga found that more than half of those using equity release spend it on their homes.

Its research also shows that older people can be very attached to their homes, with 38 per cent unwilling to give up their gardens and 22 per cent reluctant to leave their memories behind.  

As a result of this desire to stay put, 18 per cent of over-50s are planning major alterations to their homes in the next 12 months.

"While releasing equity from the home isn't for everyone, it can help people make improvements so they can stay in their home as they get older," commented Roger Ramsden, chief executive of Saga Services.

On the subject of equity release, Age UK urges people to consider it carefully.

"It is vital to take independent financial advice before signing up to a scheme," the charity said.