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Understanding Reverse Mortgages

Understanding Reverse Mortgages

As the cost of living rises and the economy fluctuates, many older homeowners might wonder, "what is a reverse mortgage, and can it help me?" This article aims to answer those questions and more, demystifying the concept of reverse mortgages.

Definition and Types of Reverse Mortgages

A reverse mortgage, also known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), is a type of mortgage loan available to homeowners aged 62 and older. Unlike a traditional mortgage where the homeowner makes a monthly mortgage payment to the lender, a reverse mortgage allows the homeowner to convert part of their home's equity into loan proceeds. This means that instead of paying the lender, the homeowner receives money, either as a lump sum, monthly payment, or line of credit.

There are three main types of reverse mortgages: single-purpose reverse mortgages, proprietary reverse mortgages, and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs). Single-purpose reverse mortgages are offered by some state and local government agencies and non-profit organizations and are the least expensive option. Proprietary reverse mortgages are private loans backed by the companies that develop them. Lastly, HECMs are federally-insured reverse mortgages backed by the U.S. federal government and are the most popular type.

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Credit: MoMo Productions/Getty Images

Eligibility Requirements

The requirements for a reverse mortgage are quite different from a regular mortgage or a home equity loan. To qualify, the youngest borrower must be at least 62 years old, and the home must be their primary residence. Additionally, the homeowner must have substantial home equity and meet financial eligibility criteria set by the lender. It's essential to keep current with property tax, homeowners insurance, and any homeowners association fees as failure to do so can lead to a default on the reverse mortgage loan.

How Much Money Can an Applicant Receive From a Reverse Mortgage?

The amount that you can borrow depends on several factors, including the borrower's age (or the age of the youngest borrower in the case of couples), the home's appraised value, and the current interest rate. The older you are, the more money you can borrow. Also, the higher the appraised value of your home and the lower the interest rate, the more loan proceeds you will receive.

You can use a reverse mortgage calculator provided by many reverse mortgage lenders to get an idea of how much you might qualify for. However, to obtain exact figures, you would need to speak with a loan officer.

Pros and Cons of Reverse Mortgages

One of the main benefits of a reverse mortgage is the financial flexibility it provides. It can supplement social security, cover unexpected medical bills, pay off credit card debt, or even fund home improvements without the burden of a monthly mortgage payment.

Another advantage is the "non-recourse" feature. This means the borrower or their heirs will never owe more than the home's value when the loan becomes due. This feature is especially beneficial if the loan balance grows to exceed the property's value.

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Credit: Kameleon007/Getty Images

However, reverse mortgages also come with certain drawbacks. These include closing costs and other fees, such as a mortgage insurance premium (MIP). The MIP is a fee charged by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) to insure the loan. Also, over time, the homeowner's equity in the property may decrease as the interest on the loan accrues.

Additionally, reverse mortgages can be complicated and may not be suitable for everyone. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends potential borrowers to meet with a reverse mortgage counseling agency to understand better how these loans work.

How to Apply for a Reverse Mortgage

The process for applying for a reverse mortgage begins with a meeting with a reverse mortgage lender, who will explain how reverse mortgages work. The lender will review your financial situation, including your existing mortgage (if any), to understand if a reverse mortgage is suitable for you. As part of this process, you'll also discuss the various types of reverse mortgages, such as the HECM loan, proprietary reverse mortgage, and jumbo reverse mortgage, to identify the best fit for your needs.

Upon deciding to proceed with a reverse mortgage, you'll attend a session with a reverse mortgage counseling agency. This session, often mandated by the federal government, helps ensure borrowers fully understand the responsibilities and implications of the reverse mortgage loan.

Next, the lender will initiate the home appraisal to determine its current market value. This appraised value will factor into calculating the loan amount you're eligible to receive.

After the appraisal, the loan officer will work with you to finalize the loan application, including choosing how you'd like to receive your loan proceeds (lump sum, monthly payment, or line of credit). The lender will also discuss the terms of the loan, including the interest rate and potential closing costs.

Once the application is complete, it will go through underwriting for approval. If approved, you'll move to the closing stage, where you'll sign the final loan documents. At this point, the reverse mortgage is in effect.

The loan doesn't need to be repaid until the last surviving borrower moves out of the home, sells the property, or passes away. It's important to understand that even though you don't make monthly payments, you're still responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and any necessary home maintenance.

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Credit: Boonchai Wedmakawand/Getty Images

Reverse mortgages can be a beneficial financial tool for older homeowners needing to augment their income or manage unexpected expenses. However, like all financial decisions, it's important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks. Be sure to consult with financial advisors and mortgage professionals to ensure a reverse mortgage is the right choice for your financial situation.

If you would like to reach out to David for a complimentary consultation, call today at (866) 502-8339.  

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David Gittelson

David Gittelson

Reverse Mortgage Advisors David Gittelson (Reverse Mortgage Specialist NMLS 224312) started his career in the lending and finance industry in 2001 and has supported close to two billion in transactions through hundreds of trusted professionals. In the early 2000's David used Reverse Mortgages to support his client's cash management and retirement strategies in collaboration with the client’s tax and financial advisers and continues today with even better products and solutions to support trusted advisers whose clients are fifty-five years and older.

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