Reverse Mortgages

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3 Reasons You Might Need to Consider a Reverse Mortgage

There are several home equity financing options available, but reverse mortgages are a unique financial tool for seniors that want to tap into their home equity. Here’s everything to know about reverse mortgages and why they might be the best solution for seniors.

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

A reverse mortgage is a type of home equity financing for seniors. Instead of receiving a new loan for the equity in a home, reverse mortgage providers give cash for the equity. The balance is due back at a later point, generally when the loan recipient dies.

These are some common characteristics of reverse mortgages:

  • Age: The first requirement for a reverse mortgage is that the loan recipient is at least 62 years old.
  • Equity: A reverse mortgage requires a significant amount of equity in the property, in some cases requiring that the recipient be able to pay off the mortgage with the balance.
  • Terms: In most cases, reverse mortgages are paid back when the recipient dies, but it is also due when a home is sold, the recipient moves, or taxes and insurance aren’t paid on the property.

Reverse mortgage providers have stringent requirements on maintaining insurance and property taxes and keeping the property in good condition.

3 Reasons to Consider a Reverse Mortgage on a Home

While some reverse mortgage providers take advantage of seniors, there are reputable lenders that can connect people with the cash they need with flexible terms.

1. Payout Flexibility

Unlike a cash-out refinancing or home equity loan, a reverse mortgage offers flexibility in the payout options. Recipients can receive their payout in one of six ways:

  • Equal monthly payments (+ line of credit)
  • Equal monthly payments (annuity)
  • Line of credit
  • Lump sum
  • Term payments
  • Term payments (+ line of credit)

This flexibility means that seniors can choose to receive a significant payout all at one time or opt for a monthly payment option that supplements their cash flow.

2. Delayed Repayment Terms

Taking out a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) means that payments will be due within the next 30 days or so. That can be a burden for seniors that need more time to pay back a loan because they have a fixed monthly income.

The delayed repayment terms are one reason to choose a reverse mortgage over other home equity financing options. It can free up much-needed cash for other expenses.

3. Insufficient Credit History

Even with equity in a home, taking out a loan will require a credit check. Cash-out refinancing offers might be possible with fair credit, but home equity loans and HELOCs will generally require much better credit scores.

Reverse mortgages, on the other hand, don’t have a minimum credit score. They do require that seniors be current on any outstanding federal debt, though.

How to Find the Right Reverse Mortgage Lender

There are many unscrupulous reverse mortgage lenders out there. That’s why it’s important to research providers and loan options before signing any paperwork. Look for reverse mortgage lenders that are reputable and transparent.

Looking for the best reverse mortgage option for your situation? Contact Americas Funding Group to find out how we can connect you with the right loan.

Learn More about Reverse Mortgages

A reverse mortgage may allow homeowners 62 and older to access part of the value of their home.

Imagine living in your home without a traditional monthly mortgage payment, or instead, enjoying monthly loan proceeds from the years you’ve invested in your home. After you get a reverse mortgage on your primary residence, repayment is not due until the home is sold, the last borrower passes away or permanently leaves the home. Borrowers also must keep the home in good condition, pay property taxes and keep homeowner’s insurance coverage to avoid the loan becoming due and payable.

A reverse mortgage is a unique mortgage designed for homeowners 62 and older. You may enjoy access to part of the value of your home and the freedom and comfort of the home you’ve known for so many years. It’s your home, now you can put it to work for you.

Reverse mortgage borrowers retain ownership and title to their home. It’s yours just as it was before, but now you may benefit from the equity that’s been building in your home for years. In addition, HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) reverse mortgage loans give you peace of mind since it is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) if your home and property are the only assets that secure the loan.

There are some circumstances that will cause the loan to mature and the balance to become due and payable. Borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and maintaining the property to HUD standards. Failure to do so could make the loan due and payable. Credit is subject to age, income standards, credit history, and property qualifications. Program rates, fees, terms, and conditions are not available in all states and subject to change.

In order to retain the home when the reverse mortgage becomes due, the heirs may choose to keep the home by paying 95% of the home’s appraised value, less customary closing costs and real estate commissions.

As a protection, all those seeking a reverse mortgage are required to obtain counseling (from an independent HUD-approved third-party counselor) prior to incurring any costs associated with the loan (other than the counseling fee). While proceeds from a reverse mortgage are not subject to personal income taxation, borrowers should seek tax advice on how proceeds may affect government needs-based programs such as Medicaid and Medi-Cal.

Reverse Mortgage Facts:

  • A Reverse mortgage is a specialized loan for homeowners 62 and older.
  • A reverse mortgage allows older homeowners to access a portion of the value of their home.
  • Borrowers maintain title and ownership of their home*.
  • The cash or proceeds you receive from a reverse mortgage typically are not subject to individual income taxation. However, we suggest you consult your tax advisor to provide guidance for your particular situation.
  • Reverse mortgage proceeds could affect government needs-based programs such as Medicaid and Medi-Cal. Those receiving such benefits should consult a professional before obtaining a reverse mortgage.
  • It is not a government grant, but a loan that is repaid in the future when the home is sold or the last borrower dies or permanently leaves their residence.
  • A reverse mortgage is eligible only for the borrower’s primary or principal residence.
  • HUD counseling (from an independent HUD-approved third-party counselor) is required prior to the borrower incurring any costs associated with the loan.
  • A reverse mortgage loan is secured by a mortgage on the home and failure to comply with loan terms could result in foreclosure.