The equity release market continued to demonstrate resilience in the third quarter of this year, with total lending rising to £639m, up from £636m in Q2, the latest Equity Release Council figures reveal.
The data found that later life lending was 4% higher than in the same period last year.
While total plan numbers were 9% lower this quarter at 13,158, customers released larger sums on average.
The number of new plans was 7% lower than in Q2 2025 and 8% lower than the same period last year.
ERC says that adviser feedback gathered through its quarterly survey shows a confident yet cautious customer base.
Some customers have deferred decisions with three-quarters of advisers reporting that this is due to waiting for rate stability.
Those that are proceeding are prioritising clearing mortgages or managing debt within longer-term financial plans.
The data highlights a mature, stable market where borrowers are acting responsibly and with confidence in long-term property values.
Average loan sizes increased significantly across both new and existing customers, particularly drawdown and further-advance activity.
In addition, lump-sum lending edged ahead for the first time since late 2022 at 51%, while drawdown continues to play a key role in enabling flexible long-term planning at 49%.
Equity Release Council chair David Burrowes says: “This quarter’s performance reflects a resilient, confident and responsible market operating in challenging conditions. While fewer customers released equity, those who did were acting with clear financial purpose and strong support from specialist advice.
“Rising average loan sizes, and continued use of drawdown flexibility, show people are using property wealth carefully to manage costs, support family members and plan ahead.”
