Reverse Mortgages
Unlock Your Home’s Equity with a Reverse Mortgage
A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that allows homeowners aged 62 and older to convert part of their home’s equity into cash, providing additional financial flexibility during retirement.
Key Features:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Age: Must be at least 62 years old.
- Homeownership: Must own the home outright or have a low mortgage balance.
- Primary Residence: The home must be your primary residence.
Types of Reverse Mortgages:
- Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM): The most common type, insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
- Proprietary Reverse Mortgages: Private loans not insured by FHA, often offering higher loan limits.
- Single-Purpose Reverse Mortgages: Offered by some state and local governments, for specific purposes like home repairs or property taxes.
How It Works:
- No Monthly Payments: Unlike traditional mortgages, you don’t make monthly payments. Instead, the loan is repaid when you move, sell the home, or pass away.
- Access to Funds: Receive funds through a lump sum, monthly payments, line of credit, or a combination of these options.
- Interest and Fees: Interest is added to the loan balance over time, along with any applicable fees.
Benefits:
- Supplement Retirement Income: Use the funds to cover living expenses, medical bills, or other financial needs.
- Stay in Your Home: Continue to live in your home while accessing its equity.
- No Risk of Foreclosure: As long as you maintain the property, pay property taxes, and keep homeowners insurance, you won’t risk foreclosure.
Considerations:
- Impact on Inheritance: The loan balance must be repaid from the sale of the home, which can affect the amount of inheritance left to heirs.
- Home Maintenance: You are responsible for maintaining the home and paying property taxes and insurance.
- Loan Costs: Includes closing costs, mortgage insurance premiums, and other fees.
Eligibility for Assistance:
- Mandatory Counseling: Before obtaining a reverse mortgage, you must complete a counseling session with a HUD-approved counselor to ensure you understand the implications and options available.
Contact us today to explore how a reverse mortgage can help you access your home’s equity and enhance your financial security in retirement!