Have you ever considered using the equity in your family home to supplement your pension or superannuation? The number of older home owners aged 45 years and over using housing equity withdrawal (HEW) or in situ equity borrowing is increasing. Other forms of HEW include downsizing or selling up.

A recent report examines the uses, risks of and barriers to these types of loan. The research carried out shows that people making this decision are influenced by concerns about health, separation, divorce and bereavement prior to the sale of the primary home. The issues around repayment of a HEW loan need careful consideration.

If this is something that you are considering, view the report here.