Help to Buy Equity Loan Redemptions: Navigating the Valuation Process
The Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme has helped thousands of first-time buyers onto the property ladder. But when it comes time to redeem the loan, many homeowners find the valuation process confusing or overwhelming.
If you’re ready to redeem your equity loan, a formal valuation by a RICS Registered Valuer is required to satisfy Homes England. At Bartley West Chartered Surveyors, we specialise in RICS-compliant valuations that meet all scheme criteria.
What Is the Help to Buy Equity Loan?
Launched in 2013, this government-backed scheme allowed buyers to borrow up to 20% (40% in London) of a new build’s value. When selling or repaying, the amount owed is based on the current market value of the property—not what you originally paid—making an independent valuation essential.
Learn more about how valuations affect your property on our residential services page.
Step-by-Step: Redeeming Your Help to Buy Equity Loan
- Book a RICS Valuation: Start by arranging a valuation with a qualified surveyor. We can help.
- Home Visit Inspection: Your surveyor will assess location, condition, size and local sales.
- Desktop Research: Your valuer will research comparable property data and local market conditions.
- Get Your Valuation Report: You’ll receive a formal RICS-compliant valuation report.
- Submit to Homes England: Send the report to Homes England to get your repayment figure.
- Complete Repayment: Work with your solicitor and lender to finalise the redemption.
- Optional Desktop Extension: If the 3-month window passes, we can provide a desktop extension for £85 (April 2025 pricing).
Need to discuss your property’s current value? Explore our local offices in Southampton, Portsmouth, Reading, and more.
Why Choose Bartley West Chartered Surveyors?
- RICS Registered Valuers with in-depth local knowledge.
- Compliant with all Homes England & RICS Red Book standards.
- Coverage across the South including Southampton, Portsmouth, Reading and Basingstoke.
- Quick turnaround and valuation extensions available.
Other Valuation Services
We also offer:
- Probate Valuations
- RICS Homebuyer Reports
- Building Surveys
- Shared Ownership Valuations
- Right to Buy Valuations
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Help to Buy valuation cost? Prices vary by location and property. Get an instant quote here.
Can I use a lender’s valuation? No. Homes England only accepts valuations from independent RICS Registered Valuers.
What if my property’s value has increased? You’ll repay the same percentage, but based on current market value—so your repayment will be higher.
How long is the valuation valid? Three months. We offer desktop updates for a further three months.
Let Us Take Care of the Hard Work
If you’re preparing to redeem your Help to Buy loan, contact Bartley West today and take the stress out of the valuation process.
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