Life thanks to cash in the bank after Equity Release. For Karen and Matt, both in their early 60s, retirement wasn’t about slowing down, it was about finally living life at their own pace.

Having worked hard all their lives, raised a family and paid off their mortgage just a few years ago, they were finally enjoying a new rhythm together. Weekends were for walks in the countryside, coffee with friends and the occasional trip to the coast. However in the back of their minds, there was always a dream that hadn’t been fulfilled: Australia.

A Long-Held Dream

For years, Australia’s Gold Coast had been calling their names. Matt, once a keen surfer in his younger days, wanted to feel the thrill of riding waves again, if only for nostalgia. Karen, a self-proclaimed beach lover, had always been captivated by the thought of endless golden sands, turquoise waters and a warm breeze.

Adding to that dream was family. Some of Karen’s relatives had emigrated over a decade ago and while they’d always promised to visit, work commitments and the cost of such a long-haul trip meant it was put on the back burner.

“Life has a habit of getting in the way,” Matt admitted. “There was always another bill, another responsibility, another reason to wait. But one day you look up and you realise if you don’t do it now, you might never do it.”

Why Not Now?

By the time retirement arrived, the couple realised they had both the time and the energy to take the trip. What they didn’t want to do, however, was dip too heavily into their hard-earned savings, which they preferred to keep for everyday living and security.

That’s when a neighbour mentioned how they got cash in the bank after equity release.

Exploring Their Options with HFA Later Life

Curious, Karen and Matt contacted HFA Later Life for advice. A qualified adviser explained exactly how equity release worked, the different types available and what it would mean for them long-term.

They learned that with a lifetime mortgage, they could unlock some of the value tied up in their home, tax-free and without having to sell or move. The funds could be used however they wished, including travel.

The adviser carefully outlined the pros and cons, potential impact on inheritance and safeguards in place such as the right to stay in their home for life.

“We never felt pressured,” Karen said. “It was clear, straightforward and we had all the time in the world to decide.”

A Journey to Remember

Within months, they had the funds to make their dream trip a reality. They booked a three-week adventure across Australia:

  • Sydney for the iconic Opera House and harbour views.
  • The Great Barrier Reef, where Karen snorkelled among rainbow-coloured fish.
  • Then finally, the Gold Coast, where Matt rented a surfboard and paddled out one more time.

“It wasn’t about proving I could still surf,” Matt laughed. “It was about reliving a part of me I thought I’d left behind.”

Karen added: “The highlight was sitting on the beach at sunset with family we hadn’t seen in years. It felt like life had come full circle.”

Looking Back

For Karen and Matt, equity release wasn’t just about money. It was about giving themselves permission to live their dream while they still could.

“Retirement isn’t the end of the story,” Karen said. “For us, it was the beginning of a new chapter. We’re so grateful HFA Later Life showed us what was possible.”

Thinking About Your Own Options?

Like Karen and Matt, you might be looking to tick off a bucket-list dream, whether that’s travel, a holiday home, or something closer to home.

Equity release could be one way to make it happen, but it’s not right for everyone. That’s why it’s important to get clear, regulated advice.

At HFA Later Life, we’ll help you explore your options and only recommend equity release if it suits your circumstances.

Visit www.HFALaterLife.uk to book your free consultation with a qualified adviser.

Important Notice:

Equity release includes Lifetime Mortgages and Home Reversion Schemes. We can advise and arrange Lifetime Mortgages and will refer to an approved specialist for Home Reversion schemes.

This is a Lifetime Mortgage. These are only applicable to those 55 and over, and it could affect eligibility to state means-tested benefits and the inheritance you may leave. To understand the features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration.

There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount will depend upon your circumstances and will be agreed with you before proceeding, but we estimate it will be £1,500 payable at completion for equity release products.