• What Is A Reverse Mortgage?

Sometimes called a lifetime mortgage, a reverse mortgage allows you to borrow against the equity in your home, which can be paid out either in one lump sum or in several payments over time. This amount does not have to be paid back to the lender during your lifetime provided you stay as a resident in your home and it remains your property. That percentage of the value of your home which you have taken out now becomes the property of the lender, and will be returned to them after the sale of the home. Your heirs still inherit the property upon your passing, and they must either refinance the property, or sell it and keep the remainder of the proceeds for themselves.

• Do I Qualify For A Reverse Mortgage?

Depending on where you live, the qualifications for a reverse mortgage may differ. In general you (the borrower) must be 62 years or older, have no outstanding mortgages on the property upon which you are borrowing, and you must have sought the advice of a qualified financial adviser in order to prove that you fully understand the process. You can use the monies from a reverse mortgage for whatever you want, as there are no restrictions.

• What If My Spouse Is Not 62 Years Old Yet?

You can have a "Non-Borrowing Spouse" who may be younger. During the period of time following the death of the last surviving mortgagor (borrower) the due and payable status of a HECM (reverse mortgage loan) is further deferred as long as such non-borrowing spouse stays in compliance. For specific details, please consult your financial and legal advisers, and see a "mortgagee letter" from HUD relating to such condition: 

• How Much Can I Get From A Reverse Mortgage?

Again, depending on where you live, the amount of equity you can receive from your home with a reverse mortgage will differ. In the U.S. there is a maximum limit of $625,500, no matter what the value of your home, but for most homeowners the actual amount will be considerably less. The actual amount you will get depends on a variety of factors such as the value of your property, the interest rates at that time, your age, and whether you want a lump sum payment.

Reverse mortgages can be a great addition to your retirement income, but being sure you know all the facts before going ahead will ensure peace of mind for both you and your family in the long term.