There are clearly advantages and disadvantages with equity release schemes, but it is often difficult to get advice you can trust.

Where can I get advice without being sold equity release?

Have you tried any IFA's? They can often be pretty good, especially the one man band ones - too custom-friendly and not salesmen enough, some of them. Which makes them good for advice.

Hmm, I'm always a bit reluctant with equity release.
In a positive market it can be useful, but I think now may be the wrong time....

My parents are thinking about it. I tell them that now isn't the best time with house prices at record lows, and with finance more difficult to raise in general

I think with all financial products it can be a great tool in the right circumstances but likewise it can be dangerous if used for the wrong reasons.

Equity Release is all about seeking the right advice weather it be for parents or yourself.

Things to look our for:

• Interest Rates,
• Provider
• Costs
• Whole of Market
• Flexibility for the future

Hope we can help!

Thanks