Summary: When the Bank of England’s Base Rate changes, it directly impacts variable interest rates on mortgages and savings, typically moving them in the same direction. Fixed rates are indirectly affected by market expectations, while other loans and credit cards generally adjust over time, influencing borrowing and saving costs across the UK.

Summary: Equity release can certainly provide immediate funds for care costs, typically via a Lifetime Mortgage. However, converting the equity in your home into liquid cash means the funds become subject to local authority means testing, potentially disqualifying you from state assistance. It is essential to weigh the benefit of immediate funds against the long-term risk of depleting your eligibility for statutory care support and reducing the inheritance left to beneficiaries due to compound interest.

Summary: Direct negotiation of core product fees (such as lender arrangement fees) with the equity release provider is typically not possible as these are fixed terms of the product. However, you can significantly reduce your overall costs by comparing different providers’ incentives (like free valuations or legal cashback) and potentially negotiating the fees charged by your independent financial adviser.