11/17/2022
What is a reverse mortgage?
As the name suggests, lenders make payments to the homeowner with a reverse mortgage. Payment options include a lump sum upfront, monthly payments across a certain amount of time, a line of credit, or some combination of these. These fixed- or variable-rate loans were created for older Americans looking to remain in their one-to-four family home or FHA-approved condo.
Government-backed reverse mortgages require borrowers to be at least 62 years of age to qualify, although private reverse mortgages may have slightly lower age thresholds.
Although the reverse mortgage itself doesn't require monthly mortgage payments, borrowers still need to stay current on their property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, and any homeowners association (HOA) dues.
Benefits of a reverse mortgage
Older Americans can take advantage of a reverse mortgage as a financial planning tool. Some notable benefits are as follows:
A tax-free way to increase cash flow
Pay off any existing mortgage or liens
Ease the strain of inflation and the rising cost of living
An alternative to pulling assets from equities and stocks in a volatile market
Closing Thoughts
Older homeowners should strive to take a holistic approach to their retirement plans. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a reverse mortgage can be a beneficial addition and alternative to traditional retirement strategies. The home is a large source of untapped capital for many senior homeowners- speak with your trusted mortgage professional about how a reverse mortgage can benefit your retirement plan today.