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Your initial equity release appointment usually lasts around 90 minutes, but could be longer or shorter. This gives you time to talk through your options, ask questions, and understand what happens next.
What do you need to prepare for the initial appointment?
To help your equity release adviser understand your situation, you’ll need:.
- Details of your income and expenditure
- How much money you may want to release, and what you’d use it for
- Any existing mortgage or debts you’d like to repay, including early repayment charges
- Any questions you want to ask, so you don’t forget them on the day
What happens at the initial appointment?
Your initial equity release appointment is designed to help you understand equity release and whether it could be right for you. It’s also your chance to ask questions. There’s no obligation to go ahead.
Your adviser will explain how equity release works, including the benefits, risks and costs. They’ll also outline alternative later life finance options, so you can make an informed decision.
To give you the right advice, your adviser will need to understand your circumstances. They’ll talk through:
Your adviser will answer any questions along the way, and family members are welcome to join the appointment too.
What happens after the appointment?
Once your adviser has all the details, they’ll review the options available and assess whether equity release is suitable for you. If it isn’t, they’ll explain why and discuss alternative ways to release money from your home.
If equity release is suitable, they’ll identify a recommendation based on your needs and provide you with a personalised recommendation report and illustration.
You’ll then be invited to a second appointment, where your adviser will talk you through the recommendation and answer any questions you may have.
From there, the decision is yours. There’s no obligation to proceed. If you choose to go ahead, your adviser will guide you through the next steps and remain available if you have any questions. Our fixed advice fee of £1,699 is only payable on completion.
Next steps to start your equity release journey
Your other options with Key
Your adviser will take time to understand your needs. They’ll talk you through all your options, not just equity release. They’ll recommend what’s right for you. There’s no obligation and you only pay our fixed £1,699 advice fee if you go ahead.
Other options to think about
It's important to know your other options before going ahead with equity release. These include: downsizing, unsecured lending, using existing assets, or support from friends or family.
Why choose Key Equity Release?
Key is a specialist, award-winning equity release provider for the over 55s. We could help turn some of your property wealth into a way to support your retirement. We research all later life lending options and provide honest, personal, trusted, advice tailored to you.
Page last updated: Thursday 19 March 2026