What is a Reverse Mortgage & How Does it Work?

by | Aug 17, 2022

Reverse mortgages are becoming a more popular option for retirement planning, as they allow seniors to access their home equity without moving out or taking on a new mortgage.

But what is a reverse mortgage, and how does it work?

This article will explain everything you need to know about reverse mortgages, including how they can help you fund your retirement.

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

A reverse mortgage is a loan that allows seniors to access their home equity without making monthly mortgage payments.

Instead, the loan is repaid when the borrower dies, sells the home, or moves out of the house.

This makes reverse mortgages an attractive option for seniors who want to stay in their homes but don’t want the burden of monthly mortgage payments.

How Does Reverse Mortgage Work?

To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must be 62 years old and own your home outright or have a low mortgage balance that you can pay off with the loan proceeds.

You must also undergo a financial assessment to ensure you can afford the loan payments. Once you’ve been approved for a reverse mortgage, you can choose to receive the loan proceeds in a lump sum, as a line of credit, or in monthly payments.

The loan is repaid when you die, sell your home, or move out of the house. If you still own your home when you die, the loan will be due and payable at that time. Your heirs can either sell the home to repay the loan or refinance the mortgage and keep the home.

The loan must be repaid if you have a reverse mortgage and move out of your house. You can sell the house or refinance the mortgage into a traditional forward mortgage.

Is Reverse Mortgage a Good Idea?

It depends on your situation. If you are a senior citizen with equity in your home and don’t want to move or take on a new monthly mortgage payment, a reverse mortgage could be a good option.

However, you should know some drawbacks to reverse mortgages before deciding if this type of loan is right for you.

  • First, because the loan is not paid back until you die, sell your home, or move out, the interest on the loan will accrue over time. This means that the amount you owe on the loan will grow larger over time, which could strain your finances in retirement.
  • Additionally, if you do not make monthly mortgage payments, the equity in your home will decrease over time. This could leave you with little to no equity in your home when the loan is eventually repaid.
  • Finally, reverse mortgages are complex financial products, and it is important to understand all of the terms and conditions before you agree to one.

If you are considering a reverse mortgage, speak with a financial advisor to get all the facts before deciding.

Wrap Up

As you can see, a reverse mortgage can be a helpful tool for seniors who want to stay in their homes but don’t want the burden of monthly mortgage payments.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider before deciding if this type of loan is right for you. Speak to a financial advisor to get all the facts and ensure you understand the terms and conditions before agreeing to a reverse mortgage.