How to Choose the Right Equity Release Adviser in the UK (For Homeowners 55+) | Choosing the right mortgage adviser is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make — especially if you’re over 55 and planning for retirement. Whether you’re exploring later-life mortgages, equity release, or simply remortgaging to reduce monthly costs, having the right support can make all the difference.
Later-life lending has unique considerations, including income sources, inheritance planning, and property suitability. An adviser who understands the over-55 market will help you navigate these complexities with confidence.
What Makes a Great Equity Release Adviser for Over-55s?
When choosing a mortgage broker as a mature homeowner, you’re not just looking for low interest rates. You’re looking for:
FCA-Authorised, Qualified, and Member of the Equity Release Council
When choosing a mortgage adviser, always check that they are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and hold the appropriate industry qualifications. This assures that they are legally permitted to offer advice and must adhere to strict regulatory and ethical standards.
If you are exploring later-life lending or equity release, it’s also beneficial to choose an adviser who is a member of the Equity Release Council. Membership demonstrates a commitment to transparency, consumer protection, and responsible lending practices, ensuring that your financial well-being remains at the heart of every recommendation.
Experience in Later-Life Lending
Not all brokers understand the nuances of retirement interest-only mortgages (RIOs), lifetime mortgages, or equity release. Look for someone who has helped clients in your age group and can explain:
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How different products affect inheritance
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How your pension, investments, or rental income affects affordability
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Whether downsizing or releasing equity is a better fit
Equity Release Adviser | Whole-of-Market Access
Independent advisers can search across 170+ lenders and recommend the best later-life products available. Avoid advisers tied to one or two lenders, as this limits your options — especially if your case is complex.
Transparent Fees and Clear Communication
A trustworthy adviser will explain their fee structure upfront, including any commission they receive. They’ll also provide written mortgage illustrations showing product costs, total repayments, and early repayment charges — all in plain English.
Local Knowledge and Remote Flexibility
A local mortgage broker may offer better insights into property values, solicitor options and lender attitudes in your region. But if you’re tech-savvy or prefer remote meetings, ensure your adviser can provide phone, Zoom, or email support too.
Equity Release Adviser | Key Questions to Ask Before You Commit
When vetting a mortgage broker, ask:
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Are you independent or tied to specific lenders?
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What experience do you have with over-55 clients or equity release?
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Do you charge a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a percentage of the loan?
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What happens if my circumstances change after the mortgage is set up?
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Can you walk me through the pros and cons of equity release vs downsizing?
The right adviser won’t pressure you, they’ll help you weigh up all your options.
Types of Mortgages Available for Over 55s
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Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) Mortgages
Pay interest monthly, and repay the capital when you pass away or sell the home. -
Lifetime Mortgages (Equity Release)
Unlock tax-free cash from your home without selling, with interest rolled up or repaid later. -
Standard Capital & Interest Mortgages (up to age 75–85, depending on lender)
Still available for older borrowers with strong income and low LTV. -
Home Reversion Plans
Sell part of your property to release cash, while staying in your home rent-free.
Each option has legal, tax, and inheritance implications, so qualified advice is essential.
How Connect Experts Helps You Find the Right Equity Release Adviser
Connect Experts makes it easier, faster, and safer to find over-55 mortgage advice.
Personalised Adviser Matching
Use the Connect Experts Find Mortgage Advisers Directory to search by:
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Location
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Mortgage type (e.g. equity release, retirement mortgage)
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Language spoken
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Specialist experience (e.g. self-employed income, buy-to-let portfolios)
Whole-of-Market Specialists
Connect advisers have access to the full market — including later-life lenders, equity release providers, and specialist retirement mortgage schemes. You’ll receive advice tailored to your goals, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Clear, Friendly Communication
Our advisers take time to listen first, then explain your options in simple terms. They’ll also help with documentation, solicitor referrals, and aftercare.
Ready to find your over-55 Equity Release Adviser?
How Connect Lifetime Mortgages Helps Equity Release Clients
When it comes to unlocking value from your home in retirement, many homeowners feel overwhelmed by complex jargon, tax implications, and emotional decisions. Connect Lifetime Mortgages is designed to simplify that process, offering specialist guidance, choice, and support all tailored to your needs.
What are Connect Lifetime Mortgages?
Connect Lifetime Mortgages is a specialist arm of Connect Experts that focuses exclusively on equity release and later‑life lending. It is backed by decades of experience, a qualified team, and a commitment to clarity, compassion and client care.
They are part of Connect IFA Ltd and serve as an appointed representative, ensuring strong regulatory oversight.
Their core values — inclusion, balance, longevity and collaboration guide every interaction. Whether you’re thinking about releasing equity for lifestyle, debt clearance, or supporting loved ones, they aim to deliver solutions that preserve your financial security and legacy.
What we offer
Below are the ways Connect Lifetime Mortgages supports equity release clients:
| Feature | Benefit to You |
|---|---|
| Equity Release Expertise | Advisers specialise in lifetime mortgages and later-life lending, not general mortgages. You’ll get insight into products tailored for your age and goals. |
| Independent, Whole-of-Market Advice | They access a wide panel of lenders (not bound to a few), so your adviser can select from the best options rather than being constrained. |
| Personalised Service & Longevity | You receive ongoing support — not just a transaction-based relationship. As your situation changes, your adviser remains a resource. |
| Transparent Advice & Fees | From the start, you’ll be told about fees, how commission works, and all risks and benefits. No hidden surprises. |
| Compassion & Clarity | They emphasise a gentle approach: explaining complex concepts (roll-up interest, inheritance impact, downsizing) in simple terms. |
Thank you for reading our publication, “Equity Release Adviser | Laterlife Advice For Homeowners 55+.” Stay “Connect“-ed for more updates soon!
