We are delighted to be able to announce that Mortgage Required has joined the Equity Release Council

The Equity Release Council (ERC) is a ‘not-for-profit’ organisation and a respected industry body for the equity release sector. It aims to fully represent and facilitate the safe growth of the equity release market by helping to create the conditions which enable the market to develop effectively. Built on the legacy of a predecessor body called SHIP (Safe Home Income Plans), the Council was launched in 2012 and represents over 180 member firms in the UK.

Our Managing Director, Tim Atkinson, stated that “Joining the Equity Release Council was an easy decision for us as they stand for ethical lending and putting the client's needs first. The ERC is a voluntary organisation who have fought hard to clean up the image of the Equity Release market and Mortgage Required will only sell products governed by the ERC”.

The conditions of the Equity Release Council require that mortgage terms include that:

  • there be no Negative Equity Guarantee. In other words, you never owe more than the value of the property
  • Interest rates are fixed or capped for the life of the loan
  • Security of tenure for life - you can stay in your property until you either die or move into a long term care home

These requirements address many of the pitfalls that have been historically linked to the equity release market.

Tim added that “..At Mortgage Required we offer all of our clients a free face to face meeting to look at all the options available. Whilst Equity Release can offer the opportunity to raise the most money later in life, it is possible a traditional mortgage or other forms of lending may be a more suitable alternative..”.

If you would like to learn more about equity release and how it might best serve your needs call us for an initial chat.

Related articles:

Download our Free First Time Buyers Guide

Recent posts

World Sleep Day   Web Larger 1

There are many people who struggle with getting a good night’s sleep. Having poor sleep hygiene can be the reason for bad sleep quality in adults. Sleep hygiene refers to habits that can help you sleep better.

Here we have shared some tips to create a healthier sleep.

What You Need To Know Remortgage   Web Larger

If your current fixed rate is due to come to an end within the next six months, you will want to start thinking about the options available to you.

Deals of week web larger

Here are the lowest fixed mortgage rates of the week, available to first-time buyers, home movers, buy-to-let, and those remortgaging.

Call us for more information: 01628 507477 or email: team@mortgagerequired.com.

Nationwide Electronic Signature   Web Larger

Nationwide is the first lender to allow mortgage deeds to be signed electronically and without the need for a witness.

Santander 98 Percent   Web Larger

‘My First Mortgage’ from major high-street lender Santander is specifically for those wanting to buy their first property. It allows first-time buyers to purchase 98% of the property’s value. However, certain criteria must be met to be eligible.

Team MR Y Not PR   Web Larger

Maidenhead, Berkshire – 26th January 2026 – Dedicated independent mortgage experts, Mortgage Required, are delighted to have acquired fellow experienced brokerage, Y-Not Finance.

The acquisition connects two well-respected brokerages, both with a wealth of experience and shared values, to continue providing the best advice on all aspects of the mortgage market.

Ground Rents 250   Web Larger

As part of the UK government’s plans to change the leasehold system to help families struggling with unaffordable ground rent costs.

The Prime Minister announced this morning (27 January) that ground rents will be capped at £250 per year, reverting to a peppercorn rate after 40 years.

Five Common Reasons Additional Borrowing   Web Larger

Additional borrowing, also known as a further advance, is when you borrow more money on your existing mortgage for a specific reason agreed with your lender.

Here are five of the most common reasons for additional borrowing.