Clinch launches new equity release loan

Named Clinch Easy Equity, the new product is designed for mature-age Australians who are seeking to access housing wealth during retirement or other life-stage transitions, without the need for regular income or monthly repayments.

Under the product structure, borrowers are not required to make repayments during the loan term, which can run for up to two years.

Interest is capitalised and repaid at exit, typically through a documented property sale or refinance. The loan offers a maximum loan-to-value ratio of 65 per cent, inclusive of costs and capitalised interest, with loan amounts available up to $3 million.

Clinch said the product was developed in response to a growing disconnect between housing wealth and access to traditional credit among older Australians.

By 30 June 2025, Australia’s population reached 27.6 million, with Australians aged over 50 holding an estimated 74–76 per cent of owner-occupied home equity.

Despite this concentration of wealth, many mature-age home owners face challenges in accessing credit, due to age-based restrictions, income requirements, and serviceability assessments.

Clinch CEO James Green said that the new product was designed to address this issue, by focusing on equity strength rather than income, while maintaining responsible lending standards.

“We built Easy Equity to reflect the reality that many Australians carry their wealth in the family home, not in a pay slip,” Green said.

“Australia has a growing cohort of home owners who are asset-rich but often income-poor. Many have done everything right, yet still struggle to access credit simply because they no longer receive a regular salary. Easy Equity removes that barrier while maintaining conservative lending principles.”

Scott Prosser, owner and director of brokerage Ocean Lending, said that he had recently written a deal for a client that fits this criteria.

“This deal wouldn’t fit within bank serviceability, even though the client had substantial equity and a documented exit strategy,” Prosser said.

“We’re seeing more of these scenarios – clients with strong assets but non-standard or retirement-stage income. Traditional policy just doesn’t accommodate them.

“Clinch’s Easy Equity Loan worked because it focused on equity strength and exit clarity rather than income alone. It provided a practical solution where the banks simply couldn’t.”

Clinch said the product is aimed at brokers working with clients navigating retirement, downsizing, upsizing, or other later-life transitions where conventional lending frameworks may fall short.

Funds can be used for a range of purposes, including renovations prior to sale, short-term lifestyle or transition funding, or securing a new property ahead of downsizing.

“Easy Equity converts housing wealth into a clear and practical solution,” Green said.

“By focusing on equity strength, documented exits and transparent terms, we’ve created a product that gives mature-age home owners confidence and gives brokers a responsible option they can stand behind.”

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