Is a Reverse Mortgage the Right Choice for You?

Are you considering a reverse mortgage? It's important to understand the pros and cons of this type of loan before making a decision. A reverse mortgage is a loan that uses your home as collateral and allows you to access the equity in your home. It can be a great way to supplement your income during retirement or pay off other debts. However, there are some important things to consider before applying for a reverse mortgage.

To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years old. The new laws can protect your non-borrower spouse from losing your home if you die first, but people who aren't borrowers can't get money from the loan once the borrower dies. The amount you owe on a reverse mortgage will never exceed the value of your home, even if your loan balance is higher. Plus, the income you receive from a reverse mortgage is tax-free since it comes from a loan.

A reverse mortgage can be more expensive than traditional home loans and the initial costs can be high. You will also need to continue to pay home insurance, property taxes, and basic home repairs. Some sellers may try to pressure you into buying other financial products such as annuities or long-term care insurance with your reverse mortgage money. It's important to be aware of these tactics and make sure you understand all of the costs associated with a reverse mortgage before signing any paperwork.

HECM

(Home Equity Conversion Mortgages) are the most common type of reverse mortgages and require an initial insurance premium and an annual premium of 0.5 percent of the outstanding loan.

If you own a higher-value home, you may get a larger loan advance with a reverse mortgage. However, it's important to remember that with a reverse mortgage, the amount you owe increases over time. A reverse mortgage can be a great way to access housing capital funds to pay bills and expenses during retirement or to pay other liabilities. It can also provide the value of a comfortable retirement if there are no other options available. However, it's important to remember that if you receive income from a reverse mortgage, it could cause you to violate the asset restrictions of Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. If you're considering a reverse mortgage, it's important to do your research and make sure it's the right choice for you.

Contact an expert from American Advisors Group for more information and take advantage of their free personal consultation.

Harry Lammel
Harry Lammel

Unapologetic lover of life. Award-winning family man. Typical husband and father. Music junkie. Food buff.