If you’re a homeowner who is looking to tap in to the home equity that you’ve spent years building you may be interested in a reverse mortgage or home equity conversion mortgage (HECM). While these unique financial tools aren’t for everyone, if you qualify for a reverse mortgage you’ll find that this might be the perfect financial solution which allows you to pay off your existing mortgage, or for some, other regular expenses that you have. It is also an excellant financial planning tool which frees up equity
into a line of credit which can grow larger for future use. The line of credit can supplement income or be a stand by source of funds for emergencies or medical care for example. In fact the younger you are ( at least 62) the line of crdit created today and left to grow larger, can become a significant sum of money when you need it later. The rates are low and now is the very best time to create this option.
Let’s take a closer look at how reverse mortgages work, including how to qualify, what happens to your existing mortgage and what a reverse mortgage might cost.
Do You Meet the Requirements for a Reverse Mortgage?
In short, a reverse mortgage is a type of home loan in which the lender pays you monthly payments or a lump sum based on the equity that you’ve built up in your home. At some point in the future – when you move out of the home, or pass away – the reverse mortgage loan will become payable.
As mentioned above, reverse mortgages aren’t for everyone. You’ll need to be at least 62 years of age and be a homeowner who has enough equity built up in your home to qualify. You’ll also need to understand that your lender will scrutinize your current financial position to ensure that you can keep up with property taxes and other regular costs that you may incur.
What Happens to Your Existing Mortgage?
If you have a regular mortgage it’s still possible to qualify for a reverse mortgage, but you’ll need to use some of the proceeds to pay off your existing mortgage. For example, if you have $50,000 owing on your mortgage and you receive a reverse mortgage for $100,000, you can pay your initial mortgage off and still have $50,000 to use as you see fit.
Do You Know What a Reverse Mortgage Costs?
Keep in mind that like a traditional mortgage, a reverse mortgage has costs attached. You’ll need to pay a mortgage insurance premium, lender fees and other third-party fees that are typically referred to as “closing costs”. Most all of these fees are financed.
Learn More About Your Reverse Mortgages Options
A reverse mortgage can be an excellent way to take advantage of the equity that is currently locked up in your home. To learn more about reverse mortgages, contact your local mortgage professional and they’ll be able to share their guidance and expertise. You can reach me here via email or call my office at 831-645-1164.