What is a reverse mortgage?
A reverse mortgage—or a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)—is a special type of home loan that allows a homeowner to convert a portion of the equity in their home into cash. It allows homeowners to eliminate monthly mortgage payments* and even gain tax-free** funds without losing the title to their home. But unlike a traditional home equity loan or second mortgage, no repayment is required until the borrower(s) no longer live(s) in the home as his principal residence. Liberty focuses exclusively on FHA-insured HECM reverse mortgages.
How do I qualify?
You must be 62 or older and own a home with sufficient equity that is your primary residence. Generally, there are no credit score requirements. If you currently have a mortgage, that’s okay!! — we can pay it off with the reverse mortgage loan proceeds.
How can I use the money?
Once any existing mortgage is paid off, the net proceeds from a reverse mortgage can be used for any purpose, from making ends meet to living your retirement dreams. The top reasons borrowers typically give for using their funds are:
- Paying off debts, primarily mortgage and credit cards
- Home repairs and remodeling
- Living expenses
- Travel
- Health care or long-term care
- Easing the financial burden on their children
- Grandchildren’s education
- Hobbies
Will I lose my home?
You remain the homeowner and can stay in the home for as long you desires. The HECM program is regulated and insured by the FHA. You will not be forced to sell or move. And no payments are due on the reverse mortgage until you no longer lives in the home as your primary residence. You must also continue to meet the obligations of the loan such as paying property taxes and insurance and maintaining the home according to FHA guidelines.
If no monthly payments are required, how is the reverse mortgage paid back?
The loan is paid back when you move out of the home, sell it, the last borrower on title passes away or when the borrower fails to meet the obligations of the loan.
What if I want to leave the home to my kids?
You can still leave it to your children or to anyone you choose. Your heirs can pay off the loan any number of ways, including:
- Selling the house.
- Refinancing the debt.
- Using other funds to pay off the reverse mortgage.
How much cash can I receive?
The amount depends on you age; current interest rates; and the lesser of the appraised value of the home, the sale price, or the maximum lending limit.
Are there any costs?
As with any loan, there are closing and other costs, most of which can be financed as part of the loan. The only out-of-pocket expense is the cost of the HUD-required counseling.
Will I have to pay any taxes?
In general, the money received should be tax-free as it is not considered income by the IRS. You should should consult your financial adviser and/or CPA and appropriate government agencies for any effect on taxes or government benefits.
Will this loan affect my Social Security or Medicare benefits?
A reverse mortgage loan usually does not affect eligibility for entitlement programs, such as Medicare or Social Security benefits. However, some needs-based government benefits, such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), may be affected by a reverse mortgage loan. The borrower(s) should consult a qualified professional to determine if there would be any impact to their government benefits.
* The borrower(s) must live in their home as their primary residence, continue to pay required property taxes, homeowners insurance and maintain the home according to Federal Housing Administration requirements.** The borrower(s) should consult their financial adviser and/or CPA and appropriate government agencies for any effect on taxes or government benefits.
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