The Equity Release Council has signed up its first major property firm after Knight Frank Finance launched a UK later life finance team.
The new team will advise on and offer a range of products designed specifically for homeowners over-55 years old, including equity release options.
This comes as membership to the council continues to grow, boosted by new entrants to the market.
David Burrowes, chairman of the Equity Release Council, said: “Knight Frank Finance’s expansion into the later life sector, and membership to the Equity Release Council is testament to the growth in popularity of equity release, and the important work the council does to uphold rigorous standards and consumer protections across the industry.
“As the popularity of equity release grows, so too does the need for qualified advice.
"The launch of Knight Frank’s Later Life Finance team is therefore a great addition to the equity release adviser landscape and the council’s membership.”
David Forsdyke, head of later life finance at Knight Frank Finance, added: “I have worked closely with the council for many years and have seen first-hand the positive impact they have on consumer protection and confidence in this market.
"Membership is, in my opinion, an essential ingredient for any firm involved in equity release.
“We are fully committed to this market and dedicated to providing a best in class service to our diverse range of clients, bringing the needs of high net worth homeowners into the conversation around equity release.
"Going forward Knight Frank Finance has ambitious plans to build its specialist team of equity release and later life financial experts.”
