Millions base retirement income plans around property, Aviva report finds

Just 26% plan to downsize

clock • 2 min read

Almost 70% of homeowners say their property will play a key role in their retirement income but a similar percentage are unwilling to downsize to access equity in their home, Aviva's latest Real Retirement Report has revealed.

Aviva's survey showed 46% of over 45s viewed their property as a key part of their retirement plans and 69% of property owners said their home is worth more than their combined pension, savings and investments. However, 23% of over 45s are also worried about being able to pay their mortgage off. Some 16% expect to borrow money in retirement and 31% plan on giving money to help their children to become a first time buyer, the study found. More than half, 56%, believe their housing wealth will be required to pay for care in later life, while 61% view it as a main part of their inheritan...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Income

Market turbulance, de-risking for retirement and the crucial role of annuities

Market turbulance, de-risking for retirement and the crucial role of annuities

Annuities are now back to pre-2008 credit crunch levels

William Burrows
clock 17 April 2026 • 5 min read
Why annuities are back on advisers' agendas

Why annuities are back on advisers' agendas

'Another factor bringing annuities back into focus is the evolving tax landscape'

Ahmed Bawa
clock 24 March 2026 • 4 min read
Just guaranteed income for life sales soar amid adviser demand

Just guaranteed income for life sales soar amid adviser demand

Reports IFRS loss before tax of £118m for 2025

Jen Frost
clock 27 February 2026 • 2 min read