Later Life Lending on the Rise - More Choice for Over-50s Buyers | Bradleys Estate Agents | Property for sale in Devon, Cornwall & Somerset

Later Life Lending on the Rise - More Choice for Over-50s Buyers

- Wed 16 Sep 2026

The UK mortgage market is evolving, and that's creating exciting opportunities for buyers in later life.

Recent figures from UK Finance reveal that lending to older borrowers continues to grow, with more than 37,000 new later life mortgages advanced during the second quarter of 2026, representing a 13.4% increase compared to the same period last year. The total value of lending reached £6.2 billion, up more than 20% year-on-year, highlighting the growing demand for flexible borrowing solutions for over-50s homeowners and movers.

Industry bodies have welcomed the trend, recognising that today's homeowners are increasingly looking for greater flexibility when planning their next move, downsizing, relocating closer to family, or securing a property better suited to their retirement years. Propertymark has described the growth as encouraging, with more products becoming available to support older buyers in achieving their property goals.

Looking Beyond Traditional Mortgages

While later life mortgages can provide an attractive route for many buyers, they're not the only option available.

At Bradleys, we're proud to work with Homewise, offering another potential solution through their Home for Life Plan. Designed for people aged 60 and over, the scheme enables qualifying buyers to purchase a Lifetime Lease on a property of their choice and potentially secure it for significantly less than the full market value.

Could the Homewise Budget Booster Help?

Homewise's Budget Booster is designed to show how much further your moving budget could stretch.

Through the Home for Life Plan, eligible buyers may be able to secure their chosen property at a substantial discount, with savings ranging from 8.5% to 59% depending on age, circumstances and property criteria. This can help open up a wider range of properties and locations that may previously have felt out of reach.

For many customers, this additional buying power could help them:

• Move to their ideal property or location
• Relocate closer to friends and family
• Live nearer to amenities and services
• Release funds for retirement plans and lifestyle goals
• Create savings for the future
• Provide financial support or an early inheritance to loved ones

Helping Later Life Movers Explore Their Options

With later life lending continuing to grow and alternative solutions such as the Homewise Home for Life Plan available, there are now more ways than ever for customers to achieve their dream move.

Whether you're considering a traditional later life mortgage, downsizing, relocating, or exploring alternatives that could boost your purchasing power, the Bradleys team is here to help you understand the options available and make informed decisions about your next move.

If you're aged 60 or over and considering a move, speak to your local Bradleys branch to find out more about the Homewise Budget Booster and discover what may be possible for your future home.