To Reverse or not to Reverse

Jeremy Nachtigall • June 17, 2021

I've been reading lots of comments and questions about reverse mortgages lately. Although I am not a reverse mortgage specialist, I do know some folks who are. As a Daily Money Manager (DMM), I have clients who have them where they have worked out to be very beneficial. There is a misconception out there that reverse mortgages are a scam, which is simply not true. While not for everyone, it can be a very good way for a homeowner who is at least 62 years old to stay in their home, pull the equity from their house either as a lump sum or as a monthly income stream while eliminating monthly mortgage payments.   Some might say, “OK, what’s the catch?” The “catch” is that the lump sum payment or income stream is a loan. When the house is sold, the loan is paid back from the proceeds. 

In my work as a Daily Money Manager, I’ve helped clients who qualify for reverse mortgages in gathering and organizing the proper documents or communicating with the mortgage company on their behalf.  Some clients will use reverse mortgages to make up for a shortfall in their income. For folks on a fixed income, this may be a clear indication that either their fixed expenses are too high or their spending habits need to be addressed. It’s a good idea to consult with a DMM who can be objective and unemotional because it's never a good idea to make major financial decisions based on emotions.


The loan will be paid back when the house is sold. If the proceeds are less than what is owed upon sale, the borrower is protected because these loans are insured by the FHA (Federal Housing Authority). What this means is that the FHA will make up the difference so you or your heirs won’t be left with the debt.


Homeowners who qualify for this type of transaction must go through a counseling process from a government-approved agency like HUD (Department of Housing & Urban Development) to ensure full transparency and a complete understanding of the product.  Folks who own their home, want to stay at home and are looking for ways to enhance their income should speak with a reverse mortgage specialist to learn the ins and outs of this type of product to determine if it will fit in their overall elder care plan. A
DMM can help guide you in finding a reverse mortgage specialist and with your decision making.


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