Getting a reverse mortgage will allow a homeowner to swap the value of their homes to get some cash. To do this, the homeowner uses the equity in their home as security against a loan. This loan can be drawn down as either a line of credit, a series of monthly payments, or a cash lump sum.

Many financial institutions advertise reverse mortgages as a low-cost method to create a much-needed stream of income during retirement. While this is, for the most part, right, these financial products are not for everyone. Before you decide, you should first consult a financial advisor; it can have a significant impact on your future financial situation. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of reverse mortgages, but first, we will summarise how reverse mortgages work.

How do reverse mortgages work?

When you take out a reverse mortgage instead of making payments to a lender, a lender will make payments to you. As the homeowner, you can choose how you want to receive these payments, as mentioned above, and you only pay interest on the amount you receive. This interest is not paid upfront as it is usually not rolled into the existing loan balance. As the homeowner, you will also keep the title of your home, and as the loan matures, your investment will increase put your home’s equity will decrease.

Outside of the fact that you need to be 62 years old and the premises has to be your primary residence qualifying for a reverse mortgage is much easier than a traditional mortgage. You don’t need to meet any credit rating or have any proof of income to qualify. You will need to prove that you have ownership of the equity in your home.

The reverse mortgage will only have to be repaid if you no longer hold title to the residence or you pass away. For example, if you choose to move to a long-term care facility, you will either need to sell your house or repay the loan. If you pass away after taking a reverse mortgage, whoever inherits the house can either pay off the loan and retain ownership of the home. Or they too can choose to sell the residence to repay the loan?

Pros of a Reverse Mortgage

Easy to access

Whether you want to go on a world cruise, do some home improvements, or even help your granddaughter buy her first home, You can easily tap into the equity tied up in your residence to receive a reverse mortgage. You will quickly find that they’re much more comfortable to qualify for than more traditional lines of credit.

No-Credit checks

The vast majority of reverse mortgage agreements require no credit score or minimum income threshold. On top of that, you may get better interest rates than you would ever find from the traditional lender.

Retain the title of the home

You don’t have to worry about losing your home title, as you can pass it on to your heirs are your children upon your death, the loan will have to be repaid. Even if you do end up moving, you will soon receive any remaining equity in the event you have to sell.

Lower tax liability

You may even qualify for a mortgage interest deduction on loan, and this can help offset any tax liability. This can also be true for any beneficiaries of your will, as they would not be held responsible in the event of an equity shortfall.

Flexible payment options

You can choose from several flexible payment options, including a lump sum payment, monthly payments, or a line of credit.

No impact on existing benefits

If you’re receiving Medicare or Social Security, taking a reverse mortgage would not affect your eligibility.

Cons of a Reverse Mortgage

Fees and interest

Despite what you might be told, a reverse mortgage is still a loan, so you would again be caught with some application or origination fees. In many cases, the interest rates that are charged can be higher than traditional mortgages as the lender view these financial agreements as riskier. If you hold a substantial amount of equity in your home, the fees can quickly become a significant additional expense.

May impact Medicaid payments

If you apply for a reverse mortgage, it may impact your qualification for Medicaid coverage, as this is usually needs-based. One of the criteria for eligibility is the number of assets that you have in your possession. Some states will exclude the value of your home, but if you have turned this into cash and it’s sitting in your bank account, we may be held against you in your Medicaid application.

You might lose your home.

The fact that you have to use a primary residence as security against the loan, the house might be lost when you pass, if the heirs cannot service the loan. This could have a significant impact on whoever inherits the house. For example, if they are unable to repay the loan, they may be forced to sell the home to clear the balance.

Still liable for taxes and other expenses

Your reason for taking a reverse mortgage might be that you are struggling financially, Remember that the house is still yours and you will remain responsible for its upkeep and maintenance as well as any taxes and interest that you have to pay on loan. Unless you have a significant amount of equity available in your home, a reverse mortgage is rarely justifiable.

When is a reverse mortgage a good idea?

After raising your children and working hard towards a comfortable retirement, too many people find themselves short of the cash they need. As much as leaving an inheritance for your children is an excellent idea, you shouldn’t do this at the expense of your living standard.

Many retirees have invested heavily in their homes, and there’s nothing wrong with cashing it in to ensure you can have a more comfortable retirement. Besides, reverse mortgages are also tax-free and relatively easy to apply for, allowing you can take care of your monthly budget with very few additional costs.

At the end of the day, if your retirement budget is a little tighter than you would like, a reverse mortgage can resolve this problem. It will create some difficulties if you leave your home, but I’m sure your children will understand. The best advice I can give you is to consult with a qualified financial advisor who is an expert in estate planning to help you make the best decision possible.