Homeowners should not fear equity release with the right legal advice, says solicitor Sasha Coburn following Equity Release Council appointment
Fisher Jones Greenwood (FJG), a leading East of England law firm and proud member of Lawfront, has strengthened its expertise in later-life lending following the appointment of solicitor Sasha Coburn to the legal forum of the Equity Release Council, the industry body responsible for maintaining best practice across the sector.
The appointment recognises Sasha’s growing specialism in equity release and highlights the important role independent legal advice plays in helping homeowners understand their options when considering how to access property wealth later in life.
The announcement coincides with National Conveyancing Month in March, which raises awareness of the vital role property solicitors play in supporting homeowners through complex property transactions.
Sasha joined Fisher Jones Greenwood in June 2024 and has since focused on developing the firm’s equity release services, working closely with mortgage brokers and financial advisers.
Later life planning
“Equity release decisions are often closely linked with wider planning for later life, including wills and estate planning,” said Sasha. “Being able to offer that advice in-house with our private client team means we can take a more holistic approach and ensure clients understand how equity release fits within their overall plans.
“I came to Fisher Jones Greenwood with a vision to expand our work in equity release as the demand continues to grow in an ever-increasing market,” she added. “For me personally, this Equity Release Council appointment validates the work that I’ve been doing since joining the firm and the effort we’ve put into establishing our presence in this area.”
The Equity Release Council is the industry body responsible for setting and maintaining standards across the equity release sector. It works with lenders, advisers and legal professionals to ensure products are transparent, properly regulated and designed to protect consumers.
Sasha’s role on the Council’s legal forum will see her working alongside other specialist lawyers from across the UK to contribute to discussions around regulation, professional standards and best practice within the sector.
Despite the growth of the equity release market in recent years, Sasha believes some homeowners remain cautious about equity release due to perceptions formed more than a decade ago.
Clear guidance for consumers
“Ten years ago, the landscape was very different,” she said. “Regulations were not as strong, there was less knowledge about the products and, in some cases, people were not always given the right advice.”
However, she says the sector has evolved significantly due to the hard work of the Equity Release Council, with stronger regulations, improved safeguards and clearer guidance for consumers.
“Equity release today is very different from how people may remember it. With proper regulation and the right professional advice, homeowners can make informed decisions about whether it is the right option for them.”
Equity release products, such as lifetime mortgages, allow homeowners aged 55 and over to access funds tied up in their property while continuing to live there. While it can provide financial flexibility in retirement, Sasha emphasises that independent legal advice is a crucial part of the process.
“As solicitors, our role is to ensure clients fully understand what equity release means for them,” she said. “That includes explaining how the product works, how it may affect their property and estate, and ensuring they have the opportunity to consider their options carefully before proceeding.”
She added that National Conveyancing Month provides an opportunity to highlight the wider role property lawyers play in supporting homeowners through important financial decisions.
Supporting homeowners
“Conveyancing professionals are involved in many of the key moments in people’s lives when it comes to property,” Sasha said. “Equity release is a specialist area where clear legal advice is essential, and it is important that homeowners feel confident seeking that guidance.”
Through her new role with the Equity Release Council, Sasha hopes to contribute to the continued development of industry standards while helping more homeowners feel reassured about exploring equity release with the right professional support.
“As the sector continues to evolve, ensuring that clients receive clear advice and strong legal protection will always remain the utmost priority,” she said.
For many homeowners aged 55 and over, the value tied up in a property represents decades of hard work. Equity release is a way to access that value without selling your home or moving out. But it is also one of the most significant financial decisions you will make, and it pays to understand exactly what is involved before you commit.
How can we help?
Sasha Coburn is a Solicitor in our Residential Conveyancing team. Sasha specialises in Equity Release and works alongside clients and brokers to assist in this area. Read our Equity Release guide to learn more.
If you have any queries on the above subject, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Sasha on 0845 543 5700 or complete our online enquiry form.