Equity Release Adviser in Ipswich
Unlock the equity in your Ipswich home to support the next chapter of your life.
Helping you access the value in your home with trusted, independent advice from a local specialist.
Lead by
Maxine Smithen
Equity Release Specialist
Proud member of the
- Optional repayments
- No negative equity
- Tax-free lump sum
- Remain in your home
Introduction
Releasing equity in Ipswich, made simple and secure.
At Hayes Finance, we help homeowners across Ipswich and the wider Suffolk area access the value tied up in their property through equity release. Whether you live in the town centre, the Orwell riverside areas, Kesgrave, Rushmere St Andrew, or anywhere across the IP postcodes, Maxine Smithen is here to guide you through every step.
Ipswich is one of Suffolk’s most established property markets, and many homeowners here have seen significant growth in the value of their homes over the years. Equity release can be a smart, considered way to access that value — without having to sell your home or downsize.
We understand that deciding to release equity is a significant financial decision. That’s why we take the time to explain every option clearly, guide you through the process step-by-step, and make sure you feel confident and supported from start to finish.
What is equity release?
Equity release allows homeowners aged 55 and over to access some of the money tied up in their home — without having to sell or move out.
It can provide a tax-free lump sum or a flexible drawdown facility to help you enjoy retirement, pay off existing borrowing, support loved ones, or fund home improvements.
The main types of equity release we advise on are:
Lifetime Mortgages
The most popular form of equity release. You borrow money secured against your home, but you continue to own it. The loan and any interest are typically repaid when you pass away or move into long-term care. There are no mandatory monthly repayments, though many plans allow you to make voluntary payments if you wish.
We’ll help you understand which option is right for your circumstances and long-term plans.
Why Consider Equity Release?
Why do Ipswich homeowners consider equity release?
There are many reasons why homeowners in Ipswich choose to release equity. For most, it’s about gaining greater financial freedom in later life. You might be considering equity release to:
Boost your retirement income
Make day-to-day life more comfortable.
Help family members
With a gift or deposit for their own home.
Pay off an existing mortgage or debts
Remove financial stress from your retirement.
Fund home improvements or adaptations
Make your property more enjoyable or accessible for independent living.
Enjoy life’s experiences
From travel and hobbies to spending more quality time with loved ones.
Make your next move with Hayes Finance by your side every step of the way.
Whatever your reason, our role is to help you explore every option safely — ensuring you fully understand the long-term implications before making any decision.
Independent, whole-of-market advice, every time.
As an independent and whole-of-market life-time equity release specialist, we’re not tied to any specific lender. This means we can compare all available equity release products to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for you.
Our advice is completely impartial. Our priority is helping you make the right decision for your future. We’ll always explain the benefits, risks, and alternatives so you have a clear understanding of your choices before moving forward.
Because we are members of the Equity Release Council, we only work with lenders who are equally accredited.
Why choose Hayes Finance for equity release in Ipswich?
A named adviser you can trust
Unlike many national providers, when you come to Hayes Finance you’re working with a named, qualified specialist from the start. Maxine Smithen has deep expertise in lifetime mortgages and later life lending, and she will personally guide you through every stage of the process — from your first free consultation right through to completion.
Independent, whole-of-market advice
We are not tied to any single lender. As an independent, whole-of-market equity release specialist, we compare all available products to find the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your needs. Our advice is completely impartial — our only priority is helping you make the right decision for your future.
Local knowledge, personal service
We understand the Ipswich and Suffolk property market, and we know the financial considerations that matter to homeowners in this part of East Anglia. You’ll always receive a personal, attentive service — not a call centre experience.
FCA regulated and Equity Release Council member
Hayes Finance is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). We are also proud members of the Equity Release Council — the industry body that sets the standards for safe, fair equity release advice. This means we only work with lenders and products that meet strict consumer protection standards.
How our equity release process works
We believe in making the equity release journey clear, comfortable, and completely transparent. From our first conversation to the moment funds are released, you’ll always know exactly what’s happening and why.
Step 1 – Free Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a free, no-obligation consultation with Maxine. We’ll take the time to understand your goals, circumstances, and any existing borrowing. This friendly conversation helps us determine whether equity release is right for you and what options may be available.
Step 2 – Personalised Research & Recommendations
If equity release is suitable for your situation, we’ll explore the whole market to find the most appropriate plans for your needs. You’ll receive a clear, personalised recommendation outlining your options, the benefits, risks, and long-term considerations — all explained in plain English.
Step 3 – Application & Property Valuation
Once you’re happy to proceed, we’ll guide you through the application process from start to finish. The lender will arrange an independent valuation of your Ipswich property to confirm how much you can release. We’ll liaise with all parties on your behalf to keep everything moving smoothly.
Step 4 – Completion & Continued Support
When your plan completes, the funds are released securely to you. Our support doesn’t end there — we’re always available to review your plan, answer questions, or provide guidance if your circumstances or goals change in the future.
Meet Maxine Smithen, your local Ipswich equity release adviser
Maxine Smithen is Hayes Finance’s dedicated equity release specialist, with extensive experience advising homeowners across East Anglia on lifetime mortgages and later life lending.
Maxine takes a patient, jargon-free approach to financial advice — taking the time to truly understand each client’s personal circumstances and goals before making any recommendation. Her priority is always to ensure you feel informed, confident, and genuinely supported throughout the process.
As a member of the Equity Release Council and an FCA-regulated adviser, Maxine works to the highest professional standards — giving you complete peace of mind that the advice you receive is always in your best interests.
Equity Release Reviews
What Our Clients Say About Hayes Finance
Equity Release FAQ
Frequently asked questions about equity release in Ipswich
Who can apply for equity release in Ipswich?
Equity release is typically available to homeowners aged 55 and over who own their home outright or have only a small mortgage remaining. Your property must meet minimum value requirements set by the lender, which most Ipswich properties comfortably satisfy.
Do I still own my home?
With a lifetime mortgage — the most common form of equity release — yes. You remain the full legal owner of your home throughout. The loan is only repaid when the property is sold, usually when you pass away or move into long-term care.
How much equity can I release from my Ipswich property?
The amount you can release depends on your age and the value of your property. As a general guide, most lenders allow you to release between 20% and 60% of your property’s value. Maxine will give you a clear, personalised estimate during your free consultation.
Will equity release affect my inheritance?
Releasing equity will reduce the value of your estate, as the loan and interest are repaid from the sale of your home. However, many modern equity release plans include an inheritance protection option, which ring-fences a percentage of your property’s value to pass on to your family. Maxine will explain all the options clearly.
Is equity release the right option for me?
Equity release isn’t right for everyone, and we’d never recommend it if it wasn’t genuinely in your best interest. During your free initial consultation, we’ll explore all the alternatives available to you — including downsizing, retirement interest-only mortgages, and other later life lending options — so you can make a fully informed decision.
Are there any upfront costs?
Your initial consultation with Hayes Finance is completely free. If you decide to proceed with a product, there will be costs associated with the application — including a property valuation and legal fees. Maxine will outline all expected costs clearly before you commit to anything.
Important Information
Equity release may affect your entitlement to means-tested benefits and will reduce the value of your estate. It is important to seek professional advice before proceeding. At Hayes Finance, we will make sure you fully understand the implications and benefits before making any commitments.
At Hayes Finance, we’ll make sure you fully understand the implications and benefits before making any commitments.
Free Equity Release Consultation
Book your complimentary, no obligation, consultation
If you’re considering releasing equity from your home, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.