dont know anyone who has done this but out of the blue for some reason i completed one of those online instant quote things and they were ready to chuck me 60k, every month now i get hit with mail shots pestering me to take the money, i didnt read the small print as i had no intention of doing it, i presume they hold a claim on your deeds also i asume although not 100% sure you may pay an interest rate on how much equity is released, you may loose any means tested benefits you claim or hit the ceiling for savings when the money is in the bank, unless absolutely in the dire need for cash for whatever reason i think these have to be the final option