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2022 TESTIMONIALS
The number of clients we help to achieve their Equity Release dreams continues to grow, but here is a selection of testimonials sent to us by our clients in 2022, to demonstrate the quality of service that they have received. We have been collecting testimonials since 2013, which you can view by year too.
We work closely with VouchedFor to give our clients an easy way to review us and you can read our reviews here.
We are in our seventies, our sons do not need inheritance from us as they have top jobs. They advised us to enjoy some of the equity from our house for as long as we keep healthy. We released funds to spend on holidays. In the last year we have had a Caribbean Cruise, holidays in Greece, Canaries, and several holidays in UK. Next year already booked 4 week trip to New Zealand and 10 day Mediterranean Cruise so far with more planned. We contacted Paul Saroya as he was recommended and his help and advice was brilliant with no pressure. After the first meeting all aspects of equity release was explained. We received email quotes a few days later of roughly of what monies could be released depending on the value of the house. We decided to go ahead and the whole process took about a month. All meetings took place at home, everything was arranged by Paul, including valuation and Solicitor.
Mr S, Hertfordshire, 19/12/22
Advice has been invaluable and sound from Day 1. She has been so efficient and prompt and always available to respond to any queries. Susan exudes competence and has a deep knowledge of the markets and the products recommended were tailor made to suit our needs.
Mrs W, Surrey, 12/12/22
Nick understood my needs and financial position, he then talked me through all my possible options, including Equity Release. As I opted for Equity Release, he then put forward several schemes which could be suitable, explaining them all in detail. Once I chose the most suitable which met my requirements he then took responsibility in a professional manner which resulted in an excellent outcome.
Mr G, Gloucestershire, 25/11/22
Myself and my husband have been clients of Viva Retirement Services in the past, and we were looking to release equity from our house to purchase a car, we were fortunate for Dawn from Viva to help and advise us with all our questions we had with that Equity Release query, Dawn was so clear in the advice we were seeking, going the extra mile in keeping us up to date with an application we had made with Viva. Dawn was always friendly and efficient in the telephone calls we had with her. More importantly bringing a successful conclusion for us.
Mrs M, Yorkshire 17/11/22
Nick has been amazing all the way through the process. He has kept us updated every step of the way. Nick is so easy to talk to and always cheerful.
Mrs A, Gloucestershire, 7/11/22
We were looking to relocate to a property which allowed us to take my wife’s mother with us. This did not complete as my wife’s mother changed her mind. This took several months to materialise and throughout David was attentive, patient and understanding. We then decided to apply for equity release on our home. We we’re not expecting to be able to do this but we were assured by David that he could achieve this for us, then he did!!!
Private, Leicestershire, 7/11/22
From day one to completion Liz has explained everything to us very clearly and any query we have had she has responded immediately. The process was very straightforward and it is heartening to know that we can contact Liz at any stage if we wish to discuss our situation in the future.
Private, Dorset, 30/9/22
We were considering a lifetime mortgage and wanted to deal with an adviser who could advise from a range of whole market plans. Gerard discussed our objectives in detail and recommended a plan to meet all those objectives. I felt he really understood what is important to us. With Gerard's help the application was a simple process, and after that Gerard made sure that the plan completed in good time to retain the rate quoted. Gerard is an excellent adviser - I could tell that he is passionate about matching the right plan to each client's individual needs.
Mrs C, Surrey, 16/8/22
I was finding my bills rising and was very worries, I have no children and live alone so wanted to look into equity release, Dawn was recommended by my pension advisor. Dawn explained all about equity release and how it affects me. it is a lifetime mortgage and I could pay some of it, if I wanted. While I was working, I would get annual statements showing interest due and the amount owing if I sell my home or pass away. It has totally helped me by paying off my Mortgage and therefore allowing me to do some home improvements I have been wanting to do for years. I can also continue to live my life without having to give up going to the gym, going to the beautician and other things I like doing which, with the increase in the cost of living, I had to stop. Dawn ensured I totally understood the risks involved. Also the interest rate she obtained for me was a lot less than I was expected which I really appreciate.
Private, Yorkshire, 3/12/22
Having spoken to Nick Craddock, I purchased a property with an 'equity release'. Nick provided guidance and advice on this equity release. He gave support throughout the whole process, giving independent advice, and kept me informed throughout the process.
Mr Y, Gloucestershire, 2/12/22
Our interest only mortgage was ending in March 2023 and because of having an endowment related mortgage to pay off the outstanding balance which did not fulfill the amount owed we had to look for alternative options. Shaun discussed and supported us through the whole process. He answered all our questions. He is very knowledgeable, patient and efficient. He made the whole journey a lot easier and gave us peace of mind.
Private, 17/10/22, Essex
From our first contact with Viva Retirement Solutions, we felt at ease straightaway. Everything was explained in detail, and they made sure that we understood fully the commitment that we were about to take on, without any pressure from them. We would highly recommend them.
Private, 17/10/22, Buckinghamshire
Robert helped us every step of the way. Took time to explain every step we were going through. Explained things that we didn’t quite understand. I would recommend him to friends and family if they were thinking of taking equity release from their properties.
Mrs K, Manchester, 12/9/22
Shaun helped me to fully understand what is involved in taking out a lifetime mortgage, all associated costs, our options and any potential risks. Shaun was helpful, he listened to our needs and requirements. He was easy to communicate with and kept us updated throughout the process.
Mr H, Essex 24/8/22
David was very knowledgeable, approachable, friendly and professional. He explained in detail every step of the process and I would not hesitate to seek his advice in the future.
Mrs W, 27/10/22, Lancashire
I've looked at Equity Release for 15 years with intent to release equity to supplement retirement income. I did my research and found Dawn. I immediately connected and found her advice and attention to detail very encouraging. A no nonsense lady who provides facts and balanced advice.
Mr O, 21/10/22, Yorkshire
Shaun helped me to fully understand what is involved in taking out a lifetime mortgage, all associated costs, our options and any potential risks. Shaun was helpful, he listened to our needs and requirements. He was easy to communicate with and kept us updated throughout the process.
Mr H, Essex 24/8/22
David advised us fully using his expert knowledge of the equity release market and his experience in his role to recommend the optimum structure for our equity release, taking into account our specific needs involved in the process.
Mr B, Leicestershire, 28/9/22
I wanted to do some expensive home improvements and thought releasing some cash from the equity locked into my property would be a good way to finance it. I also wanted professional advice as to the pros and cons of doing so. Nick provided this clearly and professionally and was always available throughout the process.
Mr F, Gloucestershire, 17/11/22
We needed to fund the expected, sizeable shortfall in my father’s care costs. My father, who has Alzheimer’s, wanted to continue living at home with his existing ‘live-in’ carer. Susan had experience of such situations which are not that familiar to all Local Authorities. Firstly, Susan made sure we were getting all support possible from the LA which we didn’t realise was possible. Susan introduced us to a first class care consultancy who charged very little for invaluable advise and who held our hands through the process. Once sorted out - with our shortfall reduced from LA support - Susan sourced the most flexible Equity Release product for our purposes to save as much interest cost as possible.
Mr C, Surrey, 18/11/22
Nick has been amazing all the way through the process. He has kept us updated every step of the way. Nick is so easy to talk to and always cheerful.
Mrs A, Gloucestershire, 7/11/22
I am a homeowner with no dependents or family and recently bereaved. I was considering equity release as a means of giving me the financial comfort of knowing I can cover my property expenses, both known to exist and possible expenses unknown as yet and any funds I may need for myself growing older and with limited mobility. Stephanie has, from my initial conversation with her, been extremely helpful with advice as to whether equity release was a good option for me. She quickly found a plan which matched my requirements and has been excellent at moving the process along and also answering all my queries very quickly.
Private, 28/1/22, Buckinghamshire
David was very knowledgeable, approachable, friendly and professional. He explained in detail every step of the process and I would not hesitate to seek his advice in the future.
Mrs W, 27/10/22, Lancashire
I've looked at Equity Release for 15 years with intent to release equity to supplement retirement income. I did my research and found Dawn. I immediately connected and found her advice and attention to detail very encouraging. A no nonsense lady who provides facts and balanced advice.
Mr O, 21/10/22, Yorkshire
Our interest only mortgage was ending in March 2023 and because of having an endowment related mortgage to pay off the outstanding balance which did not fulfill the amount owed we had to look for alternative options. Shaun discussed and supported us through the whole process. He answered all our questions. He is very knowledgeable, patient and efficient. He made the whole journey a lot easier and gave us peace of mind.
Private, 17/10/22, Essex
From our first contact with Viva Retirement Solutions, we felt at ease straightaway. Everything was explained in detail, and they made sure that we understood fully the commitment that we were about to take on, without any pressure from them. We would highly recommend them.
Private, 17/10/22, Buckinghamshire
My late husband and I first sought advice from Paul some years ago when we wanted to retain our house whilst releasing equity. Paul’s advice has always been sound. When I considered changing lender when I lost my husband 3 years ago, Paul advised me to wait. I took his advice and saved a considerable amount in redemption fees.
Private, Hertfordshire, 27/7/22
Susan talked me through my options, got a good deal for me and was very helpful and supportive through out the whole process. The Home Visit was invaluable.
Mr S, Surrey, 22/9/22
David has been a Rock during this process was always available to contact and always returned my calls. David put us at ease and never put any pressure on us just gave the facts outstanding service.
Mrs C, Liverpool, 15/9/22
Shaun was extremely thorough in his approach. He explained absolutely everything and answered our queries fully. He made it very plain that he was always available for any query at any time and made sure that we fully understood every detail contained in all of the documentation. He was very understanding and helpful at every stage of the process and kept everything moving along very smoothly. Quite honestly, we were amazed at the pace and ease of the whole procedure.
Mr and Mrs D, Essex 12/9/22
I wanted to pay off my mortgage and access equity from my property. As I was no longer working, I was not able to get a normal mortgage and equity release sounded like a good idea. Paul went through all the options available; the considerations and pros and cons and was able to make a fully informed decision. I was a bit nervous about it due to historical bad press around Equity Release, however Paul explained the changes in regulations and how he and his company are proactively engaged in ensuring that all the activity is regulated, and the customer is protected. I was really happy with the service I received from Paul. He was open, honest and very transparent about the potential risks and considerations. Everything was done in a timely way. He explained the process and I knew exactly what to expect.
Mr S, Hertfordshire, 19/8/22
Kerry has been brilliant from start to finish. During our first meeting she explained what equity release is all about and what we can expect. Answered all our questions, no matter how trivial. She's been easily accessible by email and phone throughout the process. She really made everything seem stress free and smooth.
Mrs D, Lancashire, 7/8/22
My late husband and I first sought advice from Paul some years ago when we wanted to retain our house whilst releasing equity. Paul’s advice has always been sound. When I considered changing lender when I lost my husband 3 years ago, Paul advised me to wait. I took his advice and saved a considerable amount in redemption fees.
Private, Hertfordshire, 27/7/22
Dawn found a plan that met all our requirements, explained everything very clearly including pointing out the possible disadvantages of taking out equity release, allowing us to make a fully informed decision. At all times Dawn was friendly, approachable and genuinely interested in our plans and I felt I could contact her at any time with any queries I had.
Private, Yorkshire, 5/8/22
Due to having a major health scare I realized that life was too short. Having heard of equity release in the press I did some research and found that I could afford to do major home improvements and not have the worry in my older years. I found VouchedFor via Martin Lewis' website so felt confident that I would be talking to a genuine advisor. Shaun came to my property and talked me though all my options and discussed in detail all the positives and negatives of taking out a lifetime mortgage. I found Shaun extremely professional and when we hit a minor snag in the process, he was reassuring that it would all still be going ahead.
Private, Essex 12/7/22
I was looking to release equity from my mother's house so she could remain at home. I could not have gone managed my way through this process without Susan. Her level of commitment to get the job done and the right outcome for us went above and beyond.
Mrs H, Surrey, 5/7/22
Having moved house, we spent a large portion of our savings to upgrade the bungalow, but funds got low and there was still work to do. Mark was very open and honest from the outset, making sure that all options were investigated before we finally chose the correct route for our needs. He then guided us through to conclusion, keeping in contact with us every step of the way.
Mr H, Lincolnshire. 28/6/22
Paul was great and walked us through the whole process very carefully and with real empathy. He was able to secure us a great deal and advise on the various options we had without pressuring us in any way. My father of 88 was also made to feel comfortable and valued throughout the process. Paul assisted with chasing the lawyers and Mortgage company and we made the deadline without too much trauma! I would highly recommend Paul!
Mr R, Hertfordshire, 27/6/22
We decided to look into equity release to release the equity in our home for home improvements and give us financial security for our retirement. We did look at the reviews for a lot of other financial advisors and Dawn came out on top. Dawn explained everything to us more than once, she answered all our questions. Also we had an issue with our house deeds that she knew exactly how to sort out. Dawn's knowledge of the equity release market is excellent.
Private, Yorkshire, 8/6/22
Due to ongoing illness I needed to look at the possibility of an Equity release as although I am of pensionable age I still had a small mortgage outstanding, if I had to retire from work I would struggle to pay for my mortgage. From the initial meeting Dave Hulin came with all the information I needed to make an informed choice on a lifetime mortgage. Dave Hulin was able to answer all of mine and my son's questions and we both felt he was honest, and we could trust him at this delicate time of my life.
Mrs L, 31/5/22 Birmingham
My mortgage rate was not fixed, it had gone up 4 times in 6 months. I needed stability and security. Liz was recommended to me by a friend. She was honest, it was not a hard sell, she gave the best advice for me now and looking forward. I would strongly recommend her to friends and family. Peace of mind that I have a fixed rate. I can pay more or less. I don’t have to worry about rising interest rates or drop in earnings.
Mrs A, Dorset 24/5/22
I was a mortgage prisoner on a very high interest rate and it was becoming very difficult to meet the monthly payments. Susan achieved a brilliant result for us and totally brightened our future. Susan listen to us, understood what was needed and got it done very professionally.
Mr P, Surrey 15/5/22
David was professional, he dressed suitably with a tie, was polite, listened to us expressing our needs and differences as a couple, also our dissatisfaction with our provider and the reasons why. He then sought to advise us on what may be possible. He went away and came back with options which were clearly explained, and he listened to our questions before answering them. Once we had decided what we wanted to do we felt happy about leaving the work to him. When problems arose, he was quick to sort them out and to keep us informed in spite of having an important funeral to attend. We could not have asked for a more professional adviser who was also good at handling people i.e. both us, our original provider who was difficult, and the solicitor. We liked the fact David came to see us in our home, so he quickly got a measure of who we were and why needed to seek his advice.
Private, Leicestershire 15/5/22
Russell Coneron was extremely helpful in advising me on this type of mortgage. He searched for the best option and explained everything about it in a way that left no room for confusion. Russell was always at the end of a phone when I had questions and took the time to answer them. Russell guided me through the whole process from start to finish and made the whole experience relatively easy and not too stressful. He demonstrated excellent knowledge of the product.
Mrs C, Buckinghamshire, 3/5/22
Russell carefully led me through the application process after fully briefing me on all the various alternatives that I might consider.
Mr D, Buckinghamshire, 20/4/22
It is essential to get quality and impartial advice when choosing an Equity Release mortgage; I wanted to change my existing mortgage to one which offered me a higher LTV and you need an adviser to ensure that you choose the right mortgage and they ensure the process of changing proceeds accordingly. Nick was very professional and approachable from the beginning; he gave me numerous options for me to consider in order to meet my requirements, one of which was excellent and was chosen. He gave me full details on this particular mortgage, answering all my questions quickly and he explained the procedures necessary to take redeem my existing mortgage, thus allowing me to take up this new one.
Mr G, Gloucestershire, 14/4/22
Robert provided a sound overview of the process, then followed up with detailed advice on the options and implications of any decisions. A very professional approach, displaying a good deal of patience and determination to follow the process through to completion.
Mr H, Manchester, 11/4/22
Liz has been amazing. She is thorough, efficient, very professional but with a friendly manner. She guided us through the process with such ease and our thanks goes to her for doing an outstanding job.
Mrs C, Dorset, 7/4/22
Together we achieved our objective. Dave kept us informed and advised all through the process, he gave reassurance when needed by phone and email. The best financial advisor we have ever encountered. It was a longer than thought journey due to unforeseen setbacks but with Dave Hulin's expert advice and tenacity we received the outcome we were looking for. His service was 1st Class.
Private, Birmingham, 6/4/22
Paul clarified every step, answered every question without making me feel it was an 'irrelevant' question. Very patient with me when I asked several questions, did not rush me, was very patient and made sure I had understood each step from the start to the finish. Available at the end of the phone to answer any further questions.
Private, Hertfordshire, 1/4/22
With Susan's expertise and professionalism, I was able to pay off my mortgage with a little extra for a rainy day, she found a product suitable for my needs and advocated for me when the lender unexpectedly delayed completion.
Mr G, Surrey, 8/8/22
Shaun went through all that was necessary for us to make an informed decision. He was always contactable and ensured we were kept informed of the process and any issues that came up, all with advice where that was necessary. There was never any "hard sell" and decisions made were our decisions based on all the information we received.
Mr B, Essex, 6/8/22
From the very first appointment with Russell Coneron, through to completion of our equity release, he has been informative, patient and quick to act on our behalf with all aspects of this process. He has been only a telephone call away and only too helpful solving any of our concerns or problems. We would feel confident to recommend Russell Coneron to anyone requiring an Equity Release Specialist.
Private, Buckinghamshire, 4/8/22
Nick gave us excellent advice from the beginning to end of the process. It was not straightforward and took longer than usual but Nick was always available to answer our questions and reassure us when we were concerned about anything. He was kind, patient and over 12 months of telephone conversations we felt he was our friend as well as our advisor.
Private, Gloucestershire, 24/7/22
The house I wanted to buy was more than one i am selling. I didn't understand anything about Equity Release and found Susan who was so friendly and helpful explaining every detail so that I could understand how it worked. Susan was so patient explaining every aspect and options and am extremely happy to have found someone so friendly, patient, and knowledgeable in what she does. I have every confidence in everything she recommends and advises me on. Susan has kept me sane in a very difficult house move chain, advising me throughout and always available to speak to me with advice and solutions. She has been my rock and really appreciate how i am a valid person to her not just a client. She is friendly and supportive and has so much knowledge in finance and mortgage advice.
Private, Surrey, 5/7/22
My interest only mortgage would expire in 5 years. I was on a variable interest which always seemed to rise whenever there was any nervousness in the financial markets. The interest rates were much lower on the equity release market and paying a monthly interest to my current lender was a waste of money
Mr G, Essex, 29/6/22
Russell helped me from start to finish, he guided and supported me every step of the way, he was always on the end of the phone if I needed his help or advice and would go the extra mile to make sure I was satisfied with the service I was receiving.
Mr B, Buckinghamshire, 28/6/22
I wanted to release funds from my home for new windows and garden room, and the company Stephanie was recommended to me. She took me step by step what her company could help me with. without putting me under any pressure. If I was unsure about something she was always at the end of the phone.
Mrs G, Buckinghamshire, 11/6/22
I was recommended Steff as someone to arrange a Buy to Let mortgage on a property I was purchasing. Steff got me an excellent deal with a lender and kept me informed of progress throughout.
Private, 1/6/22 Buckinghamshire
Dave went far & beyond to help, returning all calls & everything explained in the simplest terms. I will recommend Dave to everyone. He is exceptionally helpful as well as very passionate with his job.
Mrs W, 30/5/22 Birmingham
End of term of our Interest paying Mortgage we were looking to have our own choice to stay in our home as long as we wanted. Robert helped us by asking & listening to our needs then offering the right advice.
Private, Manchester 22/5/22
My husband died and I had a lot of decisions to make on my own and I didn’t want to make a mistake. I pursued both selling my house and considered equity release. My friend told me about Rob and I contacted him. It was the best thing I’ve ever done.
Mrs L, Essex, 13/5/22
I had an interest only mortgage and needed to pay the balance of the mortgage by September 2022. The house market was horrendous in the southwest and there was nothing I could afford that would have been suitable for me in retirement. I wanted to stay where I was and not have to move. I had thought about Equity Release and asked my mortgage advisor about it, he recommended Viva Retirement Solutions and I was then put on to Dawn Evans. She gave me advice on Equity release. She went through the whole process of releasing equity a couple of times to make sure I was making the right decision. I can think about retiring now.
Private, Yorkshire. 4/5/22
Susan explained everything as we went along, our options, her role in the process, what we needed to be mindful of, future considerations and ways of dealing with our current needs.
Mr & Mrs L. Surrey 16/3/22
Steff has been very prompt with her responses to any queries - and worked hard to keep the process moving along. She chased people up when they were slow to respond. She was also very personable and helpful.
Private, Buckinghamshire 9/3/22
Rob was always available to answer any questions we had. Prompt replies to any questions we had. He visited my home twice which I was very grateful he explained everything to us, and also recommended a solicitor who was used to dealing with equity release.
Mrs P, Manchester 18/2/22
We had previously arranged an equity release mortgage through Paul and it was time to update to a new product. As Paul served us well previously, we returned to him. Paul was very helpful throughout the entire process and provided clear and detailed explanations on all aspects of the Lifetime Mortgage that we selected.
Mr M, Hertfordshire 15/2/22
Russell provided a friendly professional service and was happy to assist with our requests. Russell was very reliable and we have been more than pleased with all recommendations made and services provided.
Private, Buckinghamshire 31/1/22
Susan guided us through every aspect of equity release from our initial enquiry to our completion. Susan was always there. If we emailed she responded immediately. She called us and explained what was happening next all the time. We were at ease with her personal approach and her reassurance at every step. We didn’t have an easy application but all the way through we knew we could rely on her doing the best she could for us. We feel she worked very hard on our case.
Private, Surrey 14/2/22
From initial contact Robert couldn't have been more helpful. Everything was clearly explained, every query followed up and everything done for my convenience. A great combination of professionalism and a friendly approach.
Mrs M, Manchester, 4/2/22
Paul is patient, considerate and calm manner was very reassuring - his research and advice thorough and accurate - a first class service.
Mr S, Hertfordshire 21/1/22
Susan managed to explain the process in such a clear and measured fashion in a way that was both understandable and accessible to both myself and my mother. Dealing with slight resistance but having a background understanding to the personalities involved was an asset that really is hard to find. My mother felt very at ease dealing with Susan in what can be quite a complex process and only because of how Susan handled, communicated and related the details of the Equity Release made the process so easy.
Private, Surrey 17/1/22
Paul asked about our financial position, gave us the options available to us and explained the pros and cons of lifetime mortgages. He advised us to consult with our daughters - which we did - and explain to them what we were intending to do. He obtained several quotations from providers and explained the details behind each one. Once we had agreed on the provider and the specific product (amount and interest rate) he put us in touch with a solicitor who would go throught the loan agreement with us. At all stages Paul was available on the phone or text and we felt that he was in control of the process throughout. He provided a professional service in a calm and measured way and we felt that his advice was impartial at all times.
Mr & Mrs M, Hertfordshire 26/1/22
Although we owned our property outright and were looking for a relatively small mortgage to facilitate the remaining renovations, our age meant that we were unable to access "regular" mortgages. Robert was able to clearly explain all aspects of the process and reassure us with any worries that we around "Equity release". There was no pressure and we were able to take our time . Robert was readily available by phone or email if we had any further questions.
Mrs S, Manchester, 21/3/22
I think Rob is very professional and cannot see any reason for improvement. If it’s not broken, you don’t change it.
Private, Essex, 14/1/22
Strong and to the point advice. A polite ability to steer me in the right direction, and exactly the outcome I required. A good sense of humour and pleasant demeanour throughout.
Private, Essex, 24/3/22
Steph was patient kind and nothing seemed to be too much trouble for her.She explained everything very clearly and seemed interested in us as people as well as clients and wanted to get the best outcome which we feel she has done.
Mrs B, Buckinghamshire, 22/3/22