Senior Equity Release Plan

Unlock home equity with a plan that fits your life guided by Vancouver's leading mortgage broker, McKay Wood.

What is a Senior Equity Release Plan?

An equity release plan helps Vancouver homeowners 55+ access a portion of their home’s value to support retirement goals—without needing to sell. The right approach depends on your cash-flow needs, risk tolerance, time horizon, and plans for the property.

Popular Paths—Compared

Reverse Mortgage
Best when: no monthly payments are preferred.
Funds: lump sum and/or scheduled advances.
Consider: interest accrues, reducing future equity.
Notes: proceeds aren’t taxable income.
HELOC (Home Equity Line)
Best when: flexible, on-demand access suits you.
Funds: draw as needed; interest only on what you use.
Consider: payments required on balances; income & credit matter.
Notes: rates can change; keep a repayment plan.
Refinance
Best when: you can handle payments and want a lump sum.
Funds: larger one-time advance possible.
Consider: payment impact on cash-flow.
Notes: may combine with other strategies.

How It Works

  1. Conversation: We map goals, timelines, and concerns (e.g., heirs and future equity). You’ll get pros, cons, and alternatives—not a sales pitch.
  2. Application: Provide ID, property details, and info on any mortgages/HELOCs. We coordinate an appraisal and compare offers across 60+ lenders.
  3. Approval & Funding: Existing secured debts on title are paid first; remaining funds are advanced per the program you choose.

Eligibility at a Glance

Core factors

  • Age: typically 55+ (all owners on title).
  • Home: primary residence; condition & appraised value matter.
  • Equity: any mortgage/HELOC on title is paid out first.
  • Use of funds: one-time or staged, depending on program.
We’ll clarify

  • Interest cost vs. future equity and estate goals.
  • All fees/costs (appraisal, legal, title) before you decide.
  • Alternatives like HELOC, refinance, or downsizing.
  • Tax/benefit considerations (suggest speaking with your advisor).

Senior Equity Release FAQs

Will this affect my OAS/GIS benefits?

Reverse mortgage proceeds aren’t considered taxable income and generally don’t reduce OAS/GIS. Always confirm your specific situation with a tax professional.

Do I have to make monthly payments?

Reverse mortgages have no required monthly payments (interest accrues). HELOCs and refinances require payments—amounts vary by balance and rate.

How much could I access?

It depends on your age, property value/condition, location, and existing equity. We’ll model a few scenarios for your property.

Do you charge a broker fee?

Generally, no. If an alternative lender is required, any broker fee is disclosed upfront so there are no surprises.

Compliance & Notes

General information only; not legal or tax advice. No promises of approval, rates, timelines, or savings. Most clients pay no broker fee; if an alternative lender is required, fees are disclosed upfront. Licensed in BC (BCFSA Agent #501337), Ontario (FSRA Level 2 Agent), and Alberta. Brokerage: Verico Paragon MortgagePal Inc. (#12685).

Ready to get started?

Hi, I'm McKay Wood, a mortgage broker in Vancouver, BC. Whatever your mortgage goals, I can help you achieve them.