A reverse mortgage lets homeowners - aged 62 and older access their home equity without selling or moving. Use the funds however you like: boost retirement income, cover medical costs, or enjoy life’s next chapter. Stay in your home while gaining financial flexibility.
Most reverse mortgages come with built-in safeguards and federally required counseling to ensure you understand the process.
Begin by submitting an application for a reverse mortgage to assess your eligibility.
Attend a counseling session with an independent HUD-approved counselor. This step is crucial to ensure that you understand the details, responsibilities, and implications of obtaining a reverse mortgage.
A professional appraisal determines your home’s current market value, which will influence the amount you can borrow.
Upon approval, you will receive a Closing Disclosure that outlines the loan details and terms.
Choose your preferred method of receiving funds, whether as a lump sum, monthly disbursements, or a line of credit.
The loan is repaid through the sale of the home, at which point the proceeds will cover the outstanding balance. If the home sells for more than the loan amount, heirs can receive the remaining equity.
A HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) is a federally insured reverse mortgage program designed for homeowners age 62 and older. It allows you to convert a portion of your home’s equity into tax-free funds—without the obligation of monthly mortgage payments.
You can receive the money as a lump sum, monthly payments, a line of credit, or a combination. Many homeowners use HECM funds for medical expenses, home improvements, daily living costs, travel, or simply to increase financial flexibility in retirement. The loan is typically repaid when the home is sold, the homeowner moves out permanently, or passes away.
No, monthly mortgage payments are not required with a reverse mortgage. However, you can choose to make voluntary payments toward the loan balance at any time. Many homeowners do this to manage the loan balance or preserve equity. Keep in mind, you’re still responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and basic home maintenance.
Yes, you can use a reverse mortgage—specifically a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase)—to buy a new primary residence. This allows you to combine a one-time down payment with a reverse mortgage to purchase the home, without the need for monthly mortgage payments. You must still meet eligibility requirements, and the home must be your primary residence.
You retain ownership and can live in the home as long as you meet loan obligations.
As long as you continue to pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the home, you will not lose your property.
The amount you can borrow depends on your home's appraised value, your age, and current interest rates.
Repayment occurs when the borrower sells the home, moves away, or passes away, using the home's sale proceeds to pay off the loan.
Yes, there may be closing costs, including mortgage insurance premiums, appraisal fees, and other related fees.