If you’re a senior over 62, reverse mortgage marketing will begin to creep into your life.  It’s inevitable.  Sometimes it’s big, flashy promises and other times it’s scary horror stories.  To help you filter through the hype, here are 5 important things every senior should know about a reverse mortgage:

1. You do not make monthly mortgage payments.  Yes, that’s right, homeowners with a reverse mortgage do not need to make monthly mortgage or interest payments as long as they live in the home and keep it as their primary residence.  Borrowers will be required to continue paying property taxes, homeowners insurance, general upkeep, and standard utilities (such as water, gas, and electricity).

2. There are no credit or income requirements.  It’s true, there are no credit and income requirements to obtain a reverse mortgage.  There are, however, borrower and property eligibility requirements.  For example, the borrower must be age 62 or older.  The home must be their primary residence and the property type will need to meet certain HUD guidelines, meaning it must be a:

• Single family home or 2-4 unit home with one unit occupied by the borrower
• HUD-approved condominium
• Manufactured home that meets FHA requirements

3. You can use a reverse mortgage to purchase a home – even if you’ve never been a homeowner before.  There are a few options to use a reverse mortgage to purchase a home.  When purchasing a home, the borrower will be required to make a down payment, but will enjoy living mortgage payment free in this new home.  Click here for much more information about purchasing a home with a reverse mortgage.

4. Married couples can both be on a reverse mortgage.  If both borrowers are 62 and over, both can be on the reverse mortgage.  If a spouse passes or moves to an assisted care facility, the remaining borrower can stay in the home.  A reverse mortgage lender should be able to answer any questions regarding married couples and ensure both spouses feel confident in their decision.

5. You retain to the title to your home.  Yes, you are still the “owner” and you will always retain the title to your home.

Jan Jordan is a Reverse Mortgage Specialist serving the Fort Collins, Loveland, Longmont, Greeley, and Front Range areas of Colorado as well as Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming.  Click here to contact Jan and learn if reverse mortgage is right for you.