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Your step-by-step checklist — covering equity release, SIPPs, and other later-life financial topics.
Avoid costly mistakes.
Protect your inheritance and retirement savings.
Compare providers with confidence.
🔐 100% secure. No spam. No pressure. Just helpful information.
📅 Updated July 2025
🔔Important: BankingTimes.co.uk provides general information only on topics such as equity release, SIPPs, and other financial products. We are not authorised or regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and do not provide personal financial advice. We may receive a commission if you choose to proceed through links or introductions on our site. This does not affect our editorial independence or the accuracy of our content.
Request Your Free Guide Below
Your step-by-step checklist — covering equity release, SIPPs, and other later-life financial topics.
Avoid costly mistakes.
Protect your inheritance.
Compare providers with confidence.
🔐 100% secure. No spam. No pressure. Just helpful information.
📅 Updated July 2025
Meet Bert Hofhuis — Your Trusted Retirement Guide
“I created this guide to help you cut through the noise — and make smarter decisions for a secure retirement.”
Meet Bert Hofhuis — Your Trusted Retirement Guide
Bert Hofhuis Is a Founder & Entrepreneur Simplifying the Complexities of Later Life Planning. He Navigates the Intricacies of Equity Release, Lifetime Mortgages, Reverse Mortgages, and Wealth Management With Clarity and Expertise.
20,000+ Readers Helped – Bert’s insights have guided thousands of UK homeowners toward more confident financial decisions.
Founder of BankingTimes – Trusted resource for equity release and SIPPs, tailored for over-55s in the UK.
Featured in Trusted UK Media – As seen in Yahoo Finance, iNews, University of Cambridge & more.
Bert Has Been Featured In:
What Is Equity Release?
Equity release lets UK homeowners aged 55+ unlock money from their property while continuing to live there.
The two main options are a lifetime mortgage or a home reversion plan, both regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Stay in your home while releasing funds.
FCA-regulated for your protection.
Choose lump sum or drawdown.
🔔Equity release is not suitable for everyone and may affect inheritance and means-tested benefits. Consider all alternatives and seek advice from an FCA-regulated adviser before making any decisions.
Why Use a Checklist?
Equity release or pension-related choices are big financial decisions. A checklist helps you stay informed, avoid surprises, and make the choice that’s right for you and your family.
Using our guide does not replace personalised advice – we recommend speaking to an FCA-regulated adviser before making any commitments.
Stay in control — understand the process step by step before you commit.
Compare options clearly — see differences between plans and providers at a glance.
Protect your family’s future — check how equity release could affect inheritance.
Avoid costly mistakes — highlight risks and pitfalls before they become problems.
If any of these points feel relevant to you, this guide will help you take the next step with confidence.
What’s Inside the Checklist?
Our checklist highlights the essential steps to review before choosing equity release. Use it to prepare questions, compare providers, and protect your financial future.
Eligibility basics
Check if you and your property qualify.
Money matters
Understand costs, interest, and repayment options.
Family considerations
See how your choice could affect inheritance.
Legal protections
Know your rights and the safeguards in place.
What to Look Out For
Equity release and other retirement products can help free up cash or grow savings, but they also come with long-term financial impacts. Knowing the basics helps you make a smarter choice.
Here’s what to check before you decide:
Interest rates – see how roll-up interest increases over time.
Total cost – understand how borrowing today affects future value.
Early repayment charges – know the penalties before committing.
Fees & charges – check for setup and legal costs.
Legal & Family Checks
Equity release is regulated to protect you, and every plan requires independent legal advice to make sure you understand the terms. It’s also wise to involve your family early, as decisions may affect inheritance.
With safeguards like the no negative equity guarantee and your right to remain in your home for life, our checklist helps you move forward knowing the essentials are covered.
Here Are the Answers You Need
Still deciding whether to download the guide? Here are some quick answers about what’s included, how it works, and what you can expect — all explained clearly, with no jargon or sales pressure.
Is the Guide Really Free?
Yes — 100% free, with no hidden costs or commitments. It’s our way of helping you make more informed financial decisions.
What Format Will I Receive the Guide In?
You’ll receive a downloadable PDF that’s easy to read on any device — phone, tablet, or computer
How Do I Know the Information Is Up to Date?
Our guide is reviewed and updated regularly by our team — the current version is accurate as of 2025.
Does It Cover Downsizing and Alternatives?
Yes. The guide includes comparisons between equity release, downsizing, and other common retirement strategies.
Can I Share the Guide With a Family Member?
Absolutely. It’s written to help both you and your loved ones understand the full picture before making a decision.
Can I Print the Guide?
Yes — the guide is provided in a printer-friendly PDF format. You can print it at home or take it to a trusted adviser for review.
Download Your Free Equity Release Guide Now
Get the information you need to plan your retirement with confidence — in just 60 seconds.
Get My Free Guide🔐 100% secure. No spam. No pressure. Just helpful information.
📅 Updated July 2025