A reverse mortgage is a sort of home equity conversion mortgage (HECM) that offers homeowners to receive income without needing to repay the loan or make monthly payments.
A reverse mortgage is a sort of loan that permits seniors over the age of 62 to borrow against the equity in their home without selling it. The loan pays the borrower a monthly income until they die or move out, at which point the house is sold and the revenues are used to pay off the loan.
It does not require credit or income verification. The lender is only required to know that you are 62 years old and that you own your home free and clear. However, you should also be aware of other loan obligations, such as property taxes and homeowners association fees. This can affect your eligibility for Medicaid. Regardless of the age of the borrower, the reverse mortgage may be a good option for your retirement.
Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons
Pros of reverse mortgages:
- The flexibility it provides. You can choose to use the money for whatever you need, including debt repayment, living expenses, and more.
- A reverse mortgage can provide some income in retirement.
- Borrowers may want to tap into their home's equity if they need the cash flow or if they have an emergency.
Cons of reverse mortgages:
- When taking out a reverse mortgage, borrowers assume all responsibility for interest on the outstanding balance until it is paid off.
- Some people worry about going into debt at a later stage in life.
How Much Can You Expect From Your Reverse Mortgage?
It can be structured in many ways. The loan is payable to you in two installments. You can receive the cash in a lump sum or a term payment. The first installment is paid to you and the second is paid after a year. You can choose the amount of money you need and the interest rate you want. A term mortgage is also a good option for some homeowners. If you are 62 or older and do not plan on leaving your home, you may want to consider a reverse mortgage.
Those who are considering it should have a will to ensure that the loan will be paid off after they pass away. In most cases, this will allow the borrower to keep the house they purchased. As long as they follow these guidelines, it can be a good investment. And while the risks associated with a reverse mortgage are low, it is a good option for older homeowners who are able to maintain it in good condition.
Reverse-mortgage lenders and borrowers can't go after the borrower's heirs after the loan has been paid. In addition, the reverse-mortgage borrowers must still make property taxes, insurance, and maintenance payments on their homes. The lender can then sell the home to pay off the loan. This is a good option for those who want to remain in their home for the duration of their retirement.