Unlock capital from your new country house plans - with new Age Concern guide

Soaring house prices mean the number of people who are 'asset rich, cash poor' is growing. For many older home owners, unlocking the value of bricks and mortar could be an option for increasing income in retirement.

Using Your Home as Capital 2002-3, the essential and independent guide on how to use the value of your home to raise extra money, is published today by Age Concern England.

Many people experience a drop in income once they retire, with a single pensioner's income typically being no more than £135 a week* - but they may be living in a valuable property. Using Your Home as Capital, priced £4.99, is packed full of practical guidance to help people weave their way through the maze of financial products which allow older people to convert the value of their home into a lump sum or regular income.

The 96-page guide is written in clear, jargon-free language by authors David McGrath and Cecil Hinton. It contains information on:

· the variety of schemes (eg home reversion, home income and roll-up loans) and how they work who can apply

· how much income you can expect

· advantages and disadvantages

· and the implications for tax and social security benefits

Gordon Lishman, Age Concern England's Director General, said:

"As returns on traditional investments dwindle and house prices go up, more and more retired people are becoming interested in finding out how these specialist products can provide an extra source of income."

"However, it doesn't take long to realise the options available are complex. Reading Using Your Home as Capital is an ideal first step read to equip people to ask their independent financial adviser the right questions."

Age Concern England strongly recommends that older people consult an independent financial advisor, a legal representative and close family members before buying any of the products described in Using Your Home as Capital 2002-3. Inclusion of product details does not imply endorsement.

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About The Author:

Mark Harris is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.home-n-house-plans.com. The best place to find new home plans, home designs & houseplans is the Internet.