Reverse Mortgage MythsClick on the Question below to find out the answers to the most commonly asked questions about reverse mortgagesDebunking the Myths and Misconceptions about Reverse Mortgages.
A Reverse Mortgage is perhaps the most misunderstood mortgage product on the market today. Although more and more senior homeowners are becoming aware of Reverse Mortgages, and the many amazing opportunities they provide, many common misunderstandings still exist.
Destroying Reverse Mortgages Myths
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| Reality: The Reverse Mortgage must be in first lien position, however as long as there is enough money available from the Reverse Mortgage to pay off the existing mortgage, the borrower can take advantage of this great program. |
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| Reality: As long as the homeowner is not currently in bankruptcy, then income and credit issues are not considered. |
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| Reality: The borrower remains on title and in control of their estate. You continue to own your home. Just as with any mortgage, you can sell your home or pay off your reverse mortgage at any time. |
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| Reality: Because you still own your home, and because it will continue to appreciate in value, it is very difficult to use up all of your equity. In fact, in many cases, depending on how much money you use, the amount of equity you have may increase. |
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| Reality: In most cases, deferred maintenance can be paid for with the proceeds from the Reverse Mortgage. A Reverse Mortgage can actually be a terrific way to get some things done around the house but without increasing your monthly payments. |
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| Reality: The homeowner is only responsible for paying taxes, insurance, and upkeep of the home. As long as you live in your house, you will never have to make a payment. |
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| Reality: Even though some seniors may have a greater or lesser need than others for the cash or income, the Reverse Mortgage can still be an excellent financial or estate planning tool. ***Remember the proceeds can be used for any purpose. |
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| Reality: If you sell your home, you lose one of the largest and most secure investments you probably have. You would lose 6-10% of your home's equity in sales costs alone. After selling, you would most likely have to pay rent or some other type of monthly pay |
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| Reality: The federal government determines the interest rate for HUD Reverse Mortgages. This means that no matter where you go for your Reverse Mortgage, the rate will be exactly the same. You want to work with a lender that is helpful, knowledgeable, profess |
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| Reality: Even though a Reverse Mortgage has up-front costs that are folded into the loan, there are NEVER any monthly payments. Compared to other traditional types of home loans that have monthly payments, a Reverse Mortgage is much more economical - especial |
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| Reality: Even though a traditional loan with monthly payments might work well in some cases, in general a traditional loan will cost more. In fact, over a 10 year period, a traditional loan of $75,000 will cost you an average of $30,000 more than a Reverse Mo |
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| Reality: While it is true that both borrowers must be 62 years or older, if one spouse is not 62, there are still strategies that can be employed that will enable you to obtain a Reverse Mortgage. These strategies can be very safe and practical. |
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| Reality: The Reverse Mortgage is a 'no recourse' loan. The heirs to your estate will never be responsible for a debt balance owing beyond the value of your home. All they have to do it sell it. |
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| Reality: False. Since there are no payments to make, you cannot fall behind in your payments. FHA insurance guarantees that the monthly income is for life. Consumer protections include counseling by AARP or an FHA approved counseling agency. FHA also limits t |
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| Reality: Reverse Mortgages are often used to provide additional income to homeowners with limited income, but are can also provide cash for a vacation, a visit to the grandchildren or that new boat and can also be an important part of an estate or financial p |
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| Reality: FHA strictly limits Reverse Mortgage fees. |
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| Reality: There are no income or credit requirements or limitations. Any homeowner age 62 or over can qualify. |
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