Equity release market on the up

The majority of financial advisers believe that the equity release market will continue to grow over the next six months.

One of the main reasons for the positive outlook is that advisers say property is now often viewed as an investment.

This, together with rising house prices, means many are now more interested in equity release.

Brendan Kearns, of Norwich Union Equity Release, said: "The research proves that equity release products are now a real solution for clients wanting to access a lump sum in later life and look set to become a normal part of retirement planning."

It is now also seen as more acceptable to discuss these products socially, and advisers believe this has also added to the positive trends in the market.