How Much Can I Release From My Home?
Typically 20-55% of your property value depending on age. Older borrowers can release more. At age 70, expect around 40% LTV.
Equity release through a lifetime mortgage allows homeowners aged 55+ to access cash from their property while continuing to live there. The amount you can release depends primarily on your age - lenders use age to calculate how long the loan will compound before being repaid. At 55, you might access 20-25% of your home's value. By 70, this increases to 35-45%. At 85+, up to 50-55%. The property type and condition also matter - some properties attract lower percentages. For joint applications, the younger person's age determines the maximum. All plans from Equity Release Council members include a 'no negative equity guarantee' - you'll never owe more than your home's value.
Equity release will reduce the value of your estate and may affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits. A lifetime mortgage is a loan secured against your home. Seek independent advice.
Key Points
- 1Release amount increases with age
- 2Minimum age is 55 for lifetime mortgages
- 3No negative equity guarantee from ERC members
- 4Interest compounds if not paid monthly
- 5Reduces inheritance but stays in your home
- 6Tax-free cash released
Eligibility Criteria
- Aged 55 or over (younger for joint applications)
- Own a UK property worth at least £70,000
- Property must be your main residence
- Property in reasonable condition
- Any existing mortgage must be repaid (can use equity release)
Typical Timeframe
Equity release applications typically take 6-10 weeks from initial advice to completion. The process includes a face-to-face advice meeting, application, valuation, and legal work. You'll have a reflection period to consider the decision.
Next Steps
- 1Use our calculator for an estimate
- 2Consider what you need the money for
- 3Speak to family about the decision
- 4Get advice from a qualified equity release adviser
- 5Consider alternatives (downsizing, standard remortgage)
Why This Matters for Your Mortgage
Understanding these details helps you make informed decisions during the mortgage process. Every element of your application—from deposits to documentation—affects your approval chances and the rates you can access.
Lenders assess applications holistically, weighing multiple factors together. Knowing what they look for allows you to present the strongest possible application. This is particularly important for non-standard situations where lender criteria varies significantly.
Ready to discuss your options?
FCA regulated advice tailored to your situation
Related Questions
For more detailed information about this topic, visit our comprehensive guide:
Equity Release Hub
Content reviewed: January 2026
CeMAP awarded by The London Institute of Banking & Finance. Cert CII (MP) awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute.