What is a Lifetime Mortgage
A Lifetime Mortgage involves taking a type of mortgage that does not require monthly repayments, although with some plans rather than roll up the interest you can opt to make monthly repayments if you wish. You retain ownership of your home and interest on the loan is rolled up (compounded). The loan and the rolled up interest is repaid by your estate when you either die or move into long term care. If you are part of a couple, the repayment is not made until the last remaining person living in the home either dies or moves into care, meaning that both you and your partner are free to live in your home for the rest of your lives.
More about the Loan
If you take out a Lifetime Mortgage, you can choose to receive your funds in a lump sum or in smaller, regular amounts. There is also an option available to increase the amount you have borrowed as and when you want to, up to the maximum limit agreed with the plan provider.
You can also elect to protect some of the value of your property as an inheritance for your family, meaning that you can benefit from releasing equity while still retaining something to pass on to your children. Some people may be able to release larger lump sums due to impaired health or may prefer to make monthly repayment in part, or in full, with an option to roll up at a later date if the monthly repayments became unaffordable.
Other Options
A Home Reversion Plan also allows you to access all or part of the value of your property while retaining the right to remain in your property, rent free, for the rest of your life. With a Home Reversion product the provider will purchase all or part of your house taking into account your age and your health and will provide you with a tax free cash lump sum (or regular payments) and a lifetime lease, guaranteeing you the right to stay in your property rent-free for the rest of your life.
