Frequently Asked Questions – Reverse Mortgages
We have compiled a set of questions and answers that we feel might be useful for one that is starting the educational process of what a Federal Housing Agency (FHA) approved Reverse Mortgage might or might not be. We are certain that you have other questions that we may not have provided answers to, please send us your questions and we would be happy to provide answers to them.
Reverse mortgage proceeds are based on the age of the youngest borrower; the appraised value of home; current reverse mortgage interest rates and the balance of the existing mortgage on your home. Also, a factor is the mortgage loan limit currently $636,150. Starting with a “maximum claim” based on these factors, the amount you would be eligible for is reduced to allow a reserve set aside for future interest and mortgage insurance payments resulting in the principal limit you will have access to.
To qualify for a reverse mortgage, one borrower must be at least 62 years of age, owner of home and occupy it as their primary residence (among other requirements). If you have equity in your home and are looking for additional income or a line of credit for reserves, a reverse mortgage can provide the funding needed to allow you to stay in your home.Qualifying requires a Financial Assessment making sure that you have the ability in the future to maintain the home and pay the property taxes, homeowners insurance and any other fees such as home owner association dues. This assessment also make sure there is enough left over to support your household!
We at Signet Mortgage pride ourselves on our thoroughness and the personal relationships we build with our borrowers. We believe a reverse mortgage should be part of every financial plan – now or in the future. Clay is a CPA and a Real Estate Broker and thererfore has a unique perspective on the proper application of the reverse mortgage in a financial plan. With access to all of the leading reverse mortgage lenders we will have the most competitive options available for you. The foundation of who we are and how we behave is based in three core values that our clients have come to expect when working with us: caring, driven and ethical. Caring for our partners and customers. Driven to provide superior customer service. Ethical in how we conduct our business every day. These core values define who we are and how we behave.
Proceeds may be provided through:
- A full or partial lump sum
- A growing line of credit (unused balance grows based on unused interest and the monthly mortgage insurance previously reserved)
- Monthly payments (tenure or modified tenure plans available)
- Combination of any of these
- Fixed rate loan will require all proceeds to be taken at closing
The choice is ultimately yours, but we will help guide you through the disbursement option that is best suited for your situation. It is important to note that if you choose a line of credit and/or monthly payments – you can update those choices as your needs change.
Having a reverse mortgage increases your financial flexibility and choices. It can help monthly cash flow by eliminating a traditional mortgage payment or supply monthly cash from the reverse mortgage. Important details – You will never owe more than the future value of your home. As long as you comply with the loan terms, you don’t have to make payments on the loan. With a reverse mortgage loan, you will not lose Social Security or Medicare benefits. Reverse mortgages afford you a greater financial freedom and control, providing you with the dignity and security you have worked hard for.
NO! When properly used, a reverse mortgage is a very powerful, viable and strategic financial tool. There is no better product more readily available to the senior population in terms of supplementing retirement, balancing a portfolio and managing retirement risks. That being said, a reverse mortgage should be evaluated based on the your particular needs and financial goals. Your Signet Reverse mortgage partner can help guide you through your specific situation.
With a reverse mortgage, there are no monthly mortgage payments as long as property taxes, insurance and maintenance continue to be paid. Many seniors are resistant to the idea of selling the home they’ve lived in for years. A reverse mortgage is a convenient and flexible solution. You can stay in your own home that you are comfortable living in while enjoying an additional cash flow stream to cover health care costs or other expenses to help you live well with greater flexibility and choice.