Your Questions Answered

Equity release is a retirement solution, helping to make the retirement years more financially comfortable. It allows homeowners to raise money from their property, as a lump sum or a regular income, whilst providing the right to remain living in their home until death or a move into long term care.

Equity Release companies are regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). In order to understand in detail the plan which is most suitable for you, and the implications of releasing equity from your home, you must receive financial advice.

Bridgewater Equity Release Limited is regulated by the FSA to provide home reversion plans. As Bridgewater does not offer advice, if you do not already have an adviser authorised to advise on equity release, click here to link to Unbiased to find one suitable for your personal circumstances.

With a home reversion all or a percentage of the property is sold for a lump sum. The percentage you retain will always remain the same regardless of the change in property values, unless you decide to take further cash releases. The Reversion provider takes legal title of the property (your remaining share is protected by a declaration of trust). Under a Safe Home Income Plans (SHIP) approved Home Reversion you have the legal right to live in your home for as long as you choose.

A lifetime mortgage is a loan secured on your home. No repayments are made; instead interest is rolled-up to be paid when the scheme ends. SHIP approved loans offer a No Negative Equity Guarantee. This means that if property prices do not rise sufficiently and the debt exceeds the value of the property at the end of the plan your estate are not required to repay the difference.

This is influenced greatly by your choice of solicitor and adviser. Subject to you appointing an experienced adviser and solicitor specialising in Equity Release it is possible to complete the plan within 6-8 weeks of application. For more information on solicitors who are members of the Equity Release Solicitors Alliance (ERSA), click here.

Yes. This is something your adviser will discuss with you. Bridgewater do not offer enhanced rates for impaired lives.

As long as your UK home is your main residence and you do not do anything to invalidate your buildings insurance, you should still be able to take out a Bridgewater home reversion plan. For further information please speak to your financial adviser.