New flexible lending in equity release

The updated policy follows direct feedback from advisers on having a clear understanding of the types of properties that can be lent against for equity release.

The new simplified Equity release terms give greater flexibility on which types of properties are accepted, allowing the underwriting team to accept applications that may previously have been automatically declined.

For example, this means that sheltered accommodation properties or unique and unusual properties, in an exceptional condition or desirable location, that otherwise may not have met previous criteria, will now be individually underwritten.

These new policy terms will give advisers the ability to provide clients with a likely decision in a format which is easy to navigate and understand, according to LV=.

Vanessa Owen, LV= head of equity release, said: “We’ve really listened to advisers ahead of making these policy changes. These new more flexible terms give us the ability to look at each case individually without potential equity release properties being automatically declined on our system.

“LV= is committed to offering great value and quality products but also continually reviewing and evaluating the effectiveness of our service to IFAs. The feedback from advisers has helped us to adapt our terms and provide a more easy to understand and flexible offering.”