What homeowners should know about reverse mortgages
As long as there have been homes for sale, there have been financial vehicles designed to alleviate some of the financial pressures associated with owning a home. A reverse mortgage is another way homeowners can borrow money based on the value of their homes, but the reverse mortgage does not need to be repaid as long as those individuals are still living in their residences.
ELIGIBILITY AND BASICS
The Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Advice states that a reverse mortgage is an option for those ages 62 and older who can borrow money based on their home equity, or how much money one could get for the home if sold after what is owed on the mortgage is paid off. At least one owner must live in the house most of the year. Reverse mortgages may be paid as a cash lump sum, as a monthly income or as a line of credit that enables the homeowner to decide how much is desired and when.
DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY
There is a misconception that a loan that requires no monthly repayment of principal or interest will not come with any eligibility considerations. Premier Reverse Mortgage states that there are some things to know before implementing a reverse mortgage. To prevent homeowners from using reverse mortgages to avoid downsizing as a result of financial shortcomings, certain eligibility parameters must be met, including a credit history analysis, income requirements, an age requirement and property stipulations. These criteria may differ from lender to lender.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL MORTGAGES AND REVERSE MORTGAGES
Unlike a traditional mortgage, where payments are made to principal and interest, and the balance goes down over time, with a reverse mortgage, borrowers do not make any payments right away. The loan balance goes up over time, and the loan is repaid when the borrower no longer lives in the home. The homeowners or their heirs will eventually have to pay back the loan, usually by selling the property. However, as the loan balance increases, the home equity decreases with a reverse mortgage. This can affect a surviving spouse or other family members. The FTC advises homeowners to confirm that the reverse mortgage has a “nonrecourse” clause, which means that the borrower or the borrower’s estate cannot owe more than the value of the home when the loan becomes due and the home is sold.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Because of fees and other requirements, a reverse mortgage may be a more expensive way to borrow money. Other ways to borrow against equity may be a better fit, such as a home-equity line of credit. Furthermore, since reverse mortgages are for older adults, scams are prevalent. Some include contractors who approach seniors about getting a reverse mortgage to pay for repairs, or scams targeting veterans.
Borrowers considering reverse mortgages should first speak with a qualified financial planner. Homeowners in the United States can access information through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. All options, costs and interest-rate information should be confirmed before signing on the dotted line.