Equity Release Belfast
Last Updated: 5th September 2025
Are you a homeowner over 55 looking for ways to make the most of your property in later life? Equity release allows you to unlock tax-free cash tied up in your home without having to sell or move out. It’s a flexible way to boost your retirement income, pay off debts, help family members, or enjoy life’s luxuries.
At AIMS NI, our independent, award-winning mortgage and loan advisors specialise in helping homeowners across Northern Ireland explore equity release safely and confidently. We provide clear, regulated advice so you fully understand your options before making any decisions.
What Is Equity Release?
Equity release is a way for homeowners to access the value built up in their property and turn it into cash. The most common types of equity release are:
- Lifetime mortgages –a loan secured against your home, with no need to make monthly repayments unless you choose to. The loan and interest are repaid when the property is sold, usually when you pass away or move into long-term care.
- Home reversion plans – you sell part or all of your property to a provider in exchange for a lump sum or regular payments, while continuing to live in your home rent-free.
At AIMS NI, we’ll explain both options clearly and help you decide if equity release is right for you
How Equity Release Works
With equity release, you continue to own and live in your home while unlocking money tied up in it. The cash you release is tax-free and can usually be taken as either:
- A one-off lump sum, or
- Smaller drawdowns over time, giving you flexibility and control.
The amount you can release depends on factors such as your age, the value of your home, and the type of plan you choose.
Is Equity Release Right for You?
Equity release is typically available to homeowners aged 55 and over. Many clients choose it for reasons such as:
- Supplementing retirement income
- Paying off an existing mortgage or debts
- Funding home improvements or adaptations
- Helping children or grandchildren with a house deposit
- Enjoying holidays or big life experiences
It’s not the right option for everyone, which is why professional, independent advice is essential. At AIMS NI, we’ll review your personal circumstances and explain the alternatives too, so you can make an informed choice.
Benefits of Equity Release
Some of the main advantages include:
- Access to tax-free cash without selling your home
- Flexibility – choose lump sum, drawdown, or a combination
- No monthly repayments required (unless you prefer to make voluntary payments)
- Lifetime security – you remain in your home for as long as you wish
- Plans approved by the Equity Release Council include a “no negative equity guarantee”
Risks and Considerations
It’s important to balance the benefits with the potential downsides:
- Inheritance impact – releasing equity reduces the value of your estate.
- Interest roll-up – if you don’t make repayments, interest compounds and the loan grows.
- Benefits impact – equity release may affect eligibility for means-tested state benefits.
- Costs – there are setup fees, valuation fees, and legal costs to consider.
That’s why choosing an FCA-regulated, independent advisor like AIMS NI is crucial. We’ll make sure you fully understand both the advantages and the risks.
Why Choose AIMS NI for Equity Release Advice?
- Independent & Whole-of-Market – we aren’t tied to one lender, so we’ll compare the best equity release plans across the market.
- Award-Winning Brokerage – trusted by homeowners in Northern Ireland since 2003.
- Local Advisors – professional consultants available across Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.
- Personal Service – we’ll meet at your home, online, or by phone at a time that suits you.
- Clear, Honest Guidance – no jargon, no pressure, just tailored advice to help you make the right decision.
The Equity Release Process with AIMS NI
Here’s what working with us looks like:
- Free, no-obligation consultation – an initial chat to understand your needs.
- Review of your situation – we’ll assess your finances, property value, and goals.
- Market comparison – we’ll research the best equity release products available.
- Application support – we handle the paperwork and liaise with lenders for you.
- Completion & beyond – we’re here to support you and your family at every stage.
Speak to an Expert Today
Equity release can be a powerful tool for the right homeowner – but it’s not a decision to make alone. At AIMS NI, our independent mortgage and loan specialists are here to explain your options clearly, answer your questions, and help you decide if it’s right for you.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly advisors – and take the first step toward unlocking the value in your home.
FAQs – Equity Release
Who is eligible for equity release?
Generally, homeowners aged 55+ with a property worth at least £70,000 may qualify.
How much money can I release from my home?
It depends on your age, property value, and the type of plan. Older applicants usually qualify for higher amounts.
Will I still own my home?
With a lifetime mortgage, yes – you remain the homeowner. With a home reversion plan, you sell part of your home but retain the right to live there for life.
Can I make early repayments?
Some plans allow voluntary repayments, but early repayment charges may apply. We’ll guide you on the most flexible options.
Will it affect my inheritance?
Yes – it reduces the value of your estate. We’ll help you consider alternatives and discuss ways to protect part of your home’s value for loved ones.
Is equity release safe?
When arranged through a regulated advisor like AIMS NI, yes. We only recommend plans approved by the Equity Release Council with safeguards such as the “no negative equity” guarantee.
Disclaimer
EQUITY RELEASE PRODUCTS INVOLVE BORROWING AGAINST OR SELLING PART OF YOUR HOME. THERE MAY BE MORE SUITABLE METHODS OF RAISING THE FUNDS YOU NEED.
A LIFETIME MORTGAGE CAN QUICKLY ERODE THE REMAINING EQUITY AND AS A RESULT THERE MAY BE NO VALUE LEFT TO PASS ON.
EQUITY RELEASE MAY REQUIRE A LIFETIME MORTGAGE OR HOME REVERSION PLAN. TO UNDERSTAND THE FEATURES AND RISKS, ASK FOR A PERSONALISED ILLUSTRATION.
