As of September 23rd, a new rule from the US Department of Labor will require stricter fiduciary duties when a trusted financial services provider gives investment advice about retirement-focused investments. The financial adviser community is a popular referral source for a reverse mortgage professional. Why?

The simple discussion of a reverse mortgage between a financial advisor and their clients lends more credence to the product category. Moreover, more and more retirement planners are starting to see the value of the reverse mortgage program in an overall comprehensive financial plan. Since home equity can make up a large percentage of an individual’s net worth, the question arises: what’s taken so long? Regardless, let’s explore ways that a reverse mortgage may help play into an overall financial plan.

Long-Term Care Management Costs

First, have you looked into the cost of assisted living? What about a long-term care insurance policy? Premiums often run $10,000 – $15,000 per year, or more. Therefore, a reverse mortgage could help offset these costs and aid in your planning.

Read More Financial Planning Using a Reverse Mortgage

Reverse mortgage loans provide flexible ways to access your home equity. Let’s explore the various options and understand how they work.

What are Reverse Mortgage Loans?

Reverse mortgage loans, especially the FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), are designed for homeowners aged 62 and above. Additionally, these loans allow you to convert part of your home equity into cash. The repayment is typically deferred until the last borrower leaves the home or passes away.

Moreover, you don’t have to make monthly principal or interest payments, but you still need to pay property charges like taxes and insurance. Plus, one of the borrowers must live in the home as their primary residence.

Read More Payout Options for Reverse Mortgage Loans

Seniors today are facing numerous economic challenges. So, with inflation rising, interest rates increasing, and the cost of medical care escalating, many are looking for ways to supplement their income. Moreover, one viable option for homeowners is a reverse mortgage. With a reverse mortgage, your lender pays you from your home equity, allowing you to use those funds as you see fit.

Understanding A Reverse Mortgage

Reverse mortgages can be beneficial tools in the right circumstances, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. So, let’s explore when a reverse mortgage makes sense according to experts.

Read More When Does a Reverse Mortgage Make Sense?

As seniors consider financial options for retirement, reverse mortgages often come into focus. So, before diving into the available resources, it’s crucial to understand the basics of a reverse mortgage.

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

A reverse mortgage lets homeowners who are at least 62 years old to convert a part of their home equity into cash. Unlike traditional mortgages, homeowners don’t make monthly repayments. Instead, the borrower will repay the loan when the homeowner dies, sells the house, or moves out permanently.

Read More Understanding Reverse Mortgage Resources for Seniors

A reverse mortgage allows homeowners to receive monthly cash payments based on the equity they have in their property. While this can be a beneficial tool for retirees seeking an additional income stream, it can create complications for those who inherit the property after the original owner’s death.

Understanding Repayment Rules for Inherited Reverse Mortgages

When a homeowner with a reverse mortgage passes away, it will trigger the repayment of the loan. This means that the beneficiary of the home must settle the full loan balance. Additionally, if there is no surviving co-signer who continues to live in the home, repayment cannot be deferred. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the implications if you inherit a property with a reverse mortgage.

Read More What Happens to a Reverse Mortgage When the Borrower Passes Away?

When families consider reverse mortgages, underlying concerns about inheritance often come to the surface. Many potential borrowers and their children worry about how a reverse mortgage might affect their estate plans. Furthermore, these discussions can reveal unspoken promises and expectations, leading to anxiety about future financial situations. So, it’s crucial to address these concerns with transparency and understanding.

Understanding Reverse Mortgage and Inheritance

The Reality Behind Inheritance Objections

Many families are apprehensive about reverse mortgages due to fears that it will diminish their inheritance. However, a deeper look reveals that the reality of inheritance is often more complex than it appears. For instance, while many older homeowners intend to leave their homes to their children. The practicality of maintaining and managing these properties can be burdensome for the heirs.

Read More Understanding the True Impact of Reverse Mortgage on Inheritance