What is a Reverse Mortgage?
A reverse mortgage is a loan designed for homeowners age 62 and older that allows them to convert a portion of their home’s value into cash while continuing to live in their home.
Instead of making monthly mortgage payments, the loan balance increases over time as funds are used. This can provide additional financial flexibility without adding a monthly payment.
The loan is repaid when the last surviving borrower sells the home, passes away, or no longer occupies the home as their primary residence.
Throughout the life of the loan, the homeowner retains ownership of the property and can continue living in the home, as long as ongoing responsibilities such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance are met.
Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?
A reverse mortgage may be a helpful option for homeowners looking to access a portion of their home’s value while remaining in their home.
It may be a good fit if:
- You are age 62 or older
- You have built up significant equity in your home
- You want to stay in your home long term
- You are living on a fixed or limited income
- You want to improve cash flow without adding a monthly payment
Reverse mortgages are designed to provide financial flexibility in retirement, especially for homeowners who want to use their equity to support ongoing expenses or long-term plans.
How Do Reverse Mortgages Work?
Reverse mortgages are backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and are designed for homeowners age 62 and older.
Instead of making monthly principal and interest mortgage payments, borrowers receive funds based on a percentage of the home’s value and the age of the youngest borrower. As funds are accessed and interest accrues, the loan balance increases over time.
Borrowers can continue living in the home and retain ownership, as long as they meet ongoing obligations such as paying property taxes, insurance, and maintaining the home.
The reverse mortgage is repaid when the last surviving borrower sells the home, passes away, or no longer occupies the home as their primary residence.