Equity release - don't rush in!

Dear Editor, I am alarmed to read certain commentators recommending that prospective equity release customers should hasten their decision due to possible falls in house prices. Using equity release before the money is needed is almost always the wrong financial decision. For those looking to release the maximum possible amount of cash, releasing equity just a year ahead of when it is required is equivalent to a drop in property value of almost 5%; releasing two years early is the equivalent of a fall of over 10%. Furthermore, for the majority who do not need the maximum amount, relea...