Author: Stephen Philbin

Stephen is a seasoned financial services professional at Retirement Solutions. Liking to discuss all matters to do with finances in later life. A keen rugby player and family man Stephen is a part of our management team looking after our day to day operations in our call centre. About Retirement Solutions. We are proud to say that we provide independent equity release advice which is crucial for homeowners considering releasing equity from their homes. We do not recommend plans from a select few or just one provider, our advisers are authorised to recommend plans from the whole of the market. By getting independent equity release advice you can rest assured that any plan recommended for you will be based upon your own personal objectives and circumstances and researched from the whole of the market. With more than 300 products now available homeowners aged 55 and over have more choice than ever when considering equity release.

Five ways to control the cost of a lifetime mortgage

You have more control over the cost of a lifetime mortgage than most people realise. The total you eventually repay isn’t fixed at the start — it’s shaped by choices you make at the outset […]

How Lifetime Mortgage Interest Really Works: A Plain Guide

In plain English: Interest on a lifetime mortgage is usually added to the loan rather than paid monthly, and each year’s interest is calculated on the new, larger balance. That is compound interest — the […]

Equity Release in 2026: A Plain English Guide

Equity Release in 2026: A Plain English Guide Do you own your home? Are you 55 or over? You may have heard of equity release. It is a way to take some money out of […]

What Slowing House Prices Mean for Equity Release | Retirement Solutions

What Slowing House Prices Mean for Equity Release UK house prices fell in May for the first time this year, according to figures published by Nationwide. It is a small move so far. But it […]

How Gilt Rates Affect Equity Release Rates | A Simple Guide

Gilt rates help decide the interest rate on equity release. Here’s what they are, how they work, and what’s happening now — in plain English.

Buying a House with a Lifetime Mortgage | 2026 Guide | Retirement Solutions

Thinking about buying a home with a lifetime mortgage in 2026? Understand how it works, what lenders look for, and how today’s rate environment affects your decision.

UK House Price Growth Picks Up in March: What It Means for Homeowners Over 55

Nationwide house price data – March 2026 UK house price growth picked up again in March 2026, according to the latest data from Nationwide. After a slower start to the year, prices rose by 0.9% […]

Canada Life Advantage Equity Release: How It Works, Benefits & Key Risks Explained

Canada Life Advantage Equity Release Many people aged over 55 own a home that has gone up in value over the years.This means a lot of their money is locked inside their property. Equity release […]

Home Improvements Top Equity Release Uses in 2025

New data shows that half of all lifetime mortgage customers in 2025 reinvested their property wealth into home improvements. We explore this growing trend and what it means for your retirement planning.

UK House Prices Rise: What it Means for Equity Release

Recent data from Nationwide shows a steady rise in UK property values. This guide explores how market growth impacts the equity available in your home and the key risks to consider.

The Role of Property Wealth in Retirement Planning

Property wealth accounts for a large portion of UK household assets, yet many homeowners don’t discuss it during retirement planning. We examine the latest research and common myths.

Equity Release Growth: Why Homeowners Tapped into Property Wealth in 2025

The latest 2025 data shows a record number of homeowners are turning to equity release to support their retirement. We explore the latest trends, uses, and essential risks you need to know.