Ideally, we would sell our house when we were ready to move on, getting the best available price through the open market and then arranging the purchase of a new home in the meantime. We would then have the time to adjust to our new circumstances and plan thoroughly for our futures. Life, however, does not always play out quite so smoothly, and when unforeseen circumstances arise, we need other options.
The equity that we hold in our homes is probably the greatest ever cash resource that we will ever have access to, and yet, whilst the financial markets are awash with equity release schemes, many existing homeowners are not eligible to apply for them. Even if they were, it would take so long to make the required arrangements that it would not be worth proceeding.
Our sell and rent back scheme not only represents a fast alternative to other equity release schemes, but it also allows you to continue living in your home for as long as you wish, during which time you have the opportunity to make alternative living arrangements, save for your future or re-establish your credit rating. Whilst other schemes might free up your cash quickly, they still leave you with all of the inconvenience, upset and immediate expense associated with finding another home and moving house. The sell and rent back scheme, on the other hand, allows you to receive a cash lump sum for your property, to do with as you please, whilst remaining in your home as a tenant and paying rent at the equivalent value for similar properties in your area.
The sell rent back option has been proven to be a very effective solution in many different circumstances, not all of which stem from financial difficulties. If you are wanting to simply improve your quality of life, then this scheme is also something to consider. What are the main reasons homeowners consider sell rent back options?
- To enable the repayment of debt or mortgage arrears
- To prevent a repossession
- To help during a period of unemployment
- To allow effective planning for emigration
- To allow one partner to remain in the family home in the case of divorce
- To release funds to compensate for the devaluation of pensions
- To release funds to pay for major expenses such as sending a child to university or unexpected medical bills
- To release funds to enable a better quality of life in old age
Gavin King is the Designated Broker of Realty In Idaho.
