When your parents move into this stage of their life there may be many considerations for them, their comfort, and your relationship to them. During the discussion process the option of reverse mortgage is a good one to consider. The equity from their home can be turned into available resources. This will help make it possible to either move to a smaller place, easily take care of home costs while other savings can be used for both enjoyment and medical, or even move closer to you and your kids.
There are quite a few common concerns that will arise. Here are short answers but speaking with a reputable reverse mortgage agent will be to your advantage if you need more information.
Will the bank own their home if my parents take out a reverse mortgage?
No. Your parents will continue to own their home and retain the title throughout the entire reverse mortgage.
When the loan has to be repaid how much will be owed?
This amount will be outlined up front before they sign the dotted line. They, or those that are the beneficiaries, will owe the amount borrowed, accumulated interest, servicing fees, accrued mortgage insurance premiums, and any costs and fees financed through the amount of the loan.
How is the loan repaid the loan if it comes due?
There are three options. They can use their own resources, refinance the loan, or sell the house to repay the lender. A reverse mortgage is designed, however, to make it possible for them to live payment free for the remainder of their lives.
FHA insured reverse mortgages are available to homeowners 62 and older with no credit or income requirements until April 27th, 2015 (at this time some changes will take place to the qualifying process). These loans allow the borrower to live mortgage payment free and receive their loan payment in one lump sum or in monthly installments.
Jan Jordan is a Reverse Mortgage Specialist serving the Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder and other Front Range areas of Colorado. Click here to contact Jan and learn if reverse mortgage is right for you.