Releasing equity from your home

Your home is likely to be one of your most valuable assets. Releasing equity will allow you to unlock some of the money tied up in your property, without having to sell it. Whether you’re looking to supplement your retirement income, help family members financially, or fund a major purchase, equity release can provide a practical solution.

At Poole Alcock, our experienced property solicitors are here to guide you through the legal process with clarity and confidence. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions that protect both your finances and your future.

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Home » Residential Conveyancing » Releasing Equity

What is equity release?

Equity release is a financial arrangement that enables homeowners, typically aged 55 to 95, to access some of the value tied up in their home as a tax-free cash lump sum or regular income. You retain the right to live in your property for life, while benefiting from the funds released.

There are two main types of equity release plans:

Lifetime Mortgage – You borrow money secured against your home, which accrues interest over time and is repaid when you pass away or move into long-term care.
Home Reversion Plan – You sell a percentage of your property to a provider in exchange for a lump sum or regular payments, while retaining the right to live there rent-free.

Choosing the right plan can be complex, and each option has long-term implications for your estate, tax position, and eligibility for state benefits. That’s why independent legal and financial advice is essential.

Equity transfer & family support

Equity release can also be used to transfer part of your property’s value to family members, whether as a gift, early inheritance, or to assist with property purchases. However, gifting equity carries potential implications for tax planning, inheritance distribution, and future care funding.

Our legal team will help you:

Understand the impact of gifting equity on your estate
Navigate the potential tax consequences for both you and your beneficiaries
Prepare all legal documents and update property ownership records accordingly

How can Poole Alcock help?

We offer expert legal support tailored to your individual circumstances. Our property solicitors will:

Explain the legal implications of your chosen equity release plan in plain English
Liaise directly with your financial adviser and lender to ensure a smooth process
Handle all documentation, including HMRC forms, Land Registry requirements, and lender paperwork
Ensure your interests are protected now, and in the future

We act solely in your best interest and provide completely independent legal advice, helping you make decisions that align with your personal goals and family priorities.

Don't just take our word for it

Hear from our clients below...

FAQs on releasing equity

Yes, provided you receive professional legal and financial advice. Reputable equity release products are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and we ensure every legal aspect is clearly explained before you commit.

Possibly. A lump sum or regular income from equity release could impact your eligibility for means-tested state benefits. That’s why it’s crucial to consult both a solicitor and an independent financial adviser.

Yes, although equity release may reduce the value of your estate. Some plans offer inheritance protection features, which we can help you evaluate during the legal review process.

There will be legal fees, and your lender may also charge valuation or arrangement fees. We offer transparent pricing, so you know exactly what to expect.

If you have an existing mortgage, it must usually be paid off before or as part of the equity release. We will coordinate directly with your lender to ensure everything is managed correctly.