Compare Nationwide Building Society Equity Release Quotes Against The Market

As the world’s largest building society, Nationwide is a cornerstone of the UK financial landscape. For many homeowners, the idea of "banking with a mutual" brings a sense of security and trust that is particularly important when considering equity release. In 2026, Nationwide continues to lead the market by offering a range of later-life lending solutions that bridge the gap between traditional mortgages and equity release.

If you are wondering whether Nationwide is the right equity release provider for you, book a free, no-obligation chat with one of our advisers below so they can review this for you.

Who is Nationwide?

Nationwide Building Society is a member-owned organization, meaning it is run for the benefit of its customers rather than external shareholders. With a history spanning over 140 years, it has evolved from a local cooperative into a national powerhouse. In the later-life sector, Nationwide is known for its "common sense" approach and for being one of the first high-street lenders to significantly raise its maximum lending age to support retirees.

What is Nationwide Equity Release?

Nationwide offers a suite of Later Life Mortgages designed specifically for those aged 55 and over. Unlike some specialist providers who only offer one type of plan, Nationwide provides a choice based on whether you want to make monthly payments or not.

• Nationwide Lifetime Mortgage: This is a traditional equity release plan where the interest "rolls up" and is added to the loan. No monthly payments are required, and the total balance is repaid when you pass away or move into long-term care.

• Retirement Interest-Only (RIO) Mortgage: For those who have a stable pension income, this allows you to borrow against your home and pay only the interest each month. This ensures the loan balance stays level and does not grow over time.

• Retirement Capital and Interest Mortgage: A standard repayment mortgage tailored for older borrowers who wish to clear the full debt over a set term in retirement.

Key Features of Nationwide Equity Release

Nationwide’s products are highly regarded for their member-focused features and flexibility:

• No Advice or Valuation Fees: Nationwide often waives the initial valuation and advice fees for its members, making the setup costs significantly lower than many competitors.

• Downsizing Protection: If you decide to move to a smaller home after your plan has been in place for a set period, you can often repay the loan in full without an Early Repayment Charge (ERC).

• Fixed-for-Life Rates: For lifetime mortgages, the interest rate is fixed from day one, giving you absolute certainty about the total cost.

• Voluntary Repayments: You can typically repay up to 10% of the initial loan amount each year without penalty, allowing you to manage the debt balance manually.

• Cashback Incentives: Many Nationwide later-life products include a cashback feature (often around £1,000) to help cover the cost of independent legal advice.

Nationwide Equity Release Interest Rates

In early 2026, Nationwide’s later-life lending rates remain some of the most competitive on the high street. Because they are a building society, they often undercut the larger banks to provide better value for members.

Their lifetime mortgage rates are typically higher than their RIO counterparts, depending on your age and the amount of equity you wish to release.

Note: Rates for existing Nationwide members are often slightly lower than those offered to the general public.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Nationwide later-life mortgage, you generally need to meet the following:

• Age: You must be aged between 55 and 85 (existing mortgage members may be eligible up to age 95).

• Property Value: Your home must be your main residence and typically valued at £100,000 or more.

• Property Type: Nationwide prefers "standard construction" homes. They can be stricter than specialist lenders regarding flats, leaseholds, or non-standard builds (like timber-framed or thatch).

• Location: Lending is available across mainland UK.

Nationwide Equity Release Reviews

Nationwide is consistently one of the most trusted brands in the UK. On review platforms, customers frequently praise the "transparency" of their advisers and the fact that they don't feel "sold to." Because Nationwide is a mutual, their advisers are often viewed as more objective. However, some reviews mention that their criteria for property types and income assessments can be more rigid than those of specialised equity release firms.

Pros and Cons of Nationwide Equity Release

Pros:

• Trusted Mutual Status: Run for members, not shareholders.

• Low Entry Costs: Often features £0 advice and valuation fees.

• Product Choice: Offers both "roll-up" and "interest-paying" options under one roof.

• Member Benefits: Exclusive rates and cashback for existing customers.

Cons:

• Strict Property Criteria: May reject homes that specialist lenders (like Pure Retirement) would accept.

• Affordability Checks: RIO products require a thorough check of your pension income.

• Standard Risks: Like all lifetime mortgages, the debt will reduce the value of your estate and could affect benefit entitlement.

How to Apply for Nationwide Equity Release

You can start the process by visiting a Nationwide branch or by calling their dedicated Later Life Mortgage team. However, it is a good idea to seek independent advice before you approach a lender directly, to ensure they’re the best provider for you.

Because equity release is a significant commitment, it is a legal requirement that you speak with a qualified adviser first to ensure the product is right for you. They will provide a personalised illustration and guide you through the property valuation and legal steps.

Get started here to begin a free, no-obligation chat with an equity release adviser who specialises in Nationwide’s products and can confirm whether they’re right for you.