The UK equity release market returned to growth in Q2 2026, with total lending rising to £597 million and customer activity increasing by 4% compared with the previous quarter. New plans grew by 9%, while further advance customers increased by 12%, suggesting renewed confidence among both new and existing borrowers. This My Later Life market update explains the latest Equity Release Council figures, changing loan sizes, the continued popularity of drawdown plans and what the trends could mean for homeowners considering equity release
Read: Equity Release Market Returns to Growth in Q2 2026You may be able to get equity release even if you still have a repayment, interest-only or offset mortgage. However, your existing mortgage and most other loans secured against the property will normally need to be repaid when the lifetime mortgage completes. This My Later Life guide explains how the process works, how much money may remain after your mortgage and fees are cleared, what happens if there is a shortfall and which alternatives should be considered before replacing a conventional mortgage with equity release.
Read: Can I Get Equity Release if I Still Have a Mortgage? , My Later LifeHaving bad credit, missed payments, CCJs or an IVA does not always prevent you from getting equity release. Lifetime mortgage lenders may focus more on your age, property value, available equity and the legal position of any debts than on your credit score alone. This guide from My Later Life explains how different credit issues can affect an application, whether debts may need to be repaid, what happens with an active or completed IVA, and why using equity release for debt consolidation requires careful consideration. It also explains how My Later Life can compare suitable lenders and plans to help find an option that fits your circumstances.
Read: Can You Get Equity Release with Bad Credit, CCJs or an IVA.How much equity you can release depends largely on your age, property value, health and the lender’s criteria. In most cases, the percentage available increases as you get older, with joint applications normally assessed using the age of the youngest homeowner. This My Later Life guide explains how much you may be able to release at 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 and 80+, how enhanced plans can affect the amount available, and why the highest loan is not always the best deal. It also shows how My Later Life can compare suitable lenders and plans to help find an option that fits your circumstances.
Read: How Much Equity Can I Release at Different AgesCan you get equity release on a leasehold flat? In many cases, yes, but lenders will usually check the remaining lease length, service charges, ground rent, building condition and future saleability before approving an application. This guide from My Later Life explains how leasehold equity release works, what happens if the lease is short, and the extra checks that may apply to retirement flats, ex-council properties, high-rise buildings and flats affected by cladding. It also outlines possible alternatives, including extending the lease or considering another later-life mortgage.
Read: Can You Get Equity Release on a Leasehold FlatIs equity release tax-free in the UK . This guide explains how lifetime mortgage funds are usually treated for tax purposes and what may happen if you save, invest or gift the money. It also covers potential effects on Pension Credit, means-tested benefits, care-fee assessments and Inheritance Tax, helping homeowners understand the wider financial consequences before releasing equity.
Read: Is Equity Release Tax Free. Tax, Benefits and Gifting ExplainedAt My Later Life, we believe some financial decisions are best discussed face to face. Equity release is a major commitment, so our free home visits give you the chance to speak with a qualified adviser in familiar surroundings, ask questions and involve your family if you wish. With advisers based across the country, we may be able to arrange a relaxed visit at a convenient time. There is no pressure to make a decision on the day. We will explain how equity release works, discuss the costs and risks, consider possible alternatives and help you understand whether it may be suitable for your circumstances. Sometimes, the old-fashioned approach is the best one: a proper conversation, plenty of time and perhaps a cup of tea.
Read: Book a Free Home Visit to Discuss Your Equity Release OptionsDiscover the truth behind 12 common equity release myths, including whether you keep ownership of your home, how interest builds, what happens to your inheritance, whether you can move house and how repayments work. This clear equity release myth buster explains the facts, risks, protections and alternatives to lifetime mortgages, helping UK homeowners make a more informed decision before seeking regulated advice.
Read: Equity Release Myth Buster: 12 Common Myths Explained
