Search
Related Links




 

 

Informative Articles

100% Financing Or No Down Payment & Bad Credit Mortgage Loans
Sub-prime lenders now offer financing packages with zero down. Interest rates are higher on these types of loans, but they make purchasing a house easier. And unlike a conventional loan, there is no private mortgage insurance required. There are...

5 Myths About Mortgage Points
Mortgage points are one of the most misunderstood concepts in the mortgage world. On the surface, points are scary, and many consumers equate points with mortgage scams and unnecessary junk fees. However, nothing could be further from the...

A Guide To Finding the Best Nashvlille Mortgage Companies
If you are thinking about moving to Nashville, or if you already live there but want to purchase a different home, finding the right Nashville mortgage company can be a daunting task. Nashville is centrally located in the state of Tennessee. It is...

Guide To Refinancing Your Mortgage
Refinancing your mortgage can mean great savings for you and your family. Replacing your existing mortgage with a lower interest loan, changing the term of your loan, or even consolidating all your debts into this new loan could save you money, both...

Looking for a Mortgage? Know Your Options.
Buying a new home is an exciting time in everyone’s life, but it can also be one of the most stressful. Unless you have done it before, it is important to know your options when selecting a mortgage. There are multiple choices when choosing the...

 
What is a Reverse Mortgage?

Simply stated, a reverse mortgage is a loan that enables homeowners (age 62 and older) to convert part of the equity in their home into a tax-free income without having to sell the home, give up the title, or take on a new monthly mortgage payment. More and more homeowners are using this to supplement their retirement income, pay for health care, modify their home, or just get some cash for emergencies. Since this is a new product, some people have misconceptions of what a reverse mortgage is. The bank doesn't give you money and take your house. Let's look at some of the most common questions.
Are reverse mortgages for desperate people? No. It is an excellent financial planning tool used from people of all walks of life.
How do I qualify? You must be 62 or if both parties are on the mortgage, then you both must be at least 62. And, you must have equity in your home.
What if I still owe on my home? You may still qualify even if you have a balance on your first mortgage. The proceeds must be used to pay off the mortgage, first.
How much can I get? This depends on several factors such as, the age of your home, the value, your age at the time of closing, and interest rates.
Is it just monthly payments? No. You can get a lump sum, line of credit, monthly payments or a combination of monthly income and a


line of credit.
But, won't I have to pay taxes on these monthly payments to the government? No. The funds are tax-free. Its your money, not additional income.
Should I seek a lawyer or receive some counseling before I get a reverse mortgage. Yes. You must be counseled before receiving a reverse mortgage. You don't have to talk to a lawyer or accountant, but it would be advised.
Who owns the title to my house? You still own the title.
What happens when I die? Once your home is passed on to your heirs, the mortgage becomes due. Your heirs may pay the mortgage and keep the home or sell the home and pay off the home. They may keep any excess sales proceeds.
What if I owe more than the house is worth? You can't. Your repayment amount will never exceed the value of the home at the time the loan comes due. Also, there are no prepayment penalties.
What if I move? If you move, then the mortgage becomes due and must be repaid.
Where can I learn more? The National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association at http://www.reversemortgage.org
About the Author
Stuart Simpson has a neat mortgage calculator FREE to use. Try it out at:
http://www.mortgage-refinance-review.com/calculator.php