
A bank mortgage reverse, also known as a reverse mortgage, is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow money using the equity in their home.
You can borrow up to 55% to 85% of your home's value, depending on your age and the type of reverse mortgage you choose.
To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years old and have paid off your mortgage or have a low balance on your mortgage.
Homeowners can use the funds from a reverse mortgage for various purposes, such as paying off debt, covering living expenses, or funding home improvements.
You can receive the funds from a reverse mortgage as a lump sum, a series of monthly payments, or a line of credit.
It's essential to understand the costs and fees associated with a reverse mortgage, which can include origination fees, servicing fees, and interest rates.
These costs can add up quickly, so it's crucial to carefully review your loan terms and consider seeking advice from a financial advisor.
A reverse mortgage can be a useful tool for homeowners who need access to cash, but it's not a decision to be taken lightly.
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What is a Mortgage?
A reverse mortgage is a home loan that you don't have to pay back for as long as you live in your home. This means you can enjoy the equity you've built up in your home without worrying about monthly payments.
You can receive the loan in one lump sum, as a regular monthly income, or at the times and in the amounts you want. This flexibility is one of the benefits of a reverse mortgage.
Most reverse mortgages require no repayment for as long as you live in your home. This is a big advantage for seniors who want to stay in their homes without worrying about mortgage payments.
The loan and interest are repaid only when you sell your home, permanently move away, or die. This means you can plan for the future without worrying about running out of money.
Here are the key features of a reverse mortgage:
- You do not give up title to your home.
- You make no monthly mortgage payments if you occupy your home as your primary residence, maintain your property, and remain current on the property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and HOA dues.
- No prepayment penalties.
- Although the loan is not due and payable until you permanently move out of the home, it can be paid off at any point without prepayment penalties.
- There is no time limit to how long the homeowner(s) may remain in the property.
- Your home does not need to be free and clear.
- You, or your heirs, retain 100% of the remaining equity upon the sale of the home.
Eligibility and Eligible Homeowners
To be eligible for a bank mortgage reverse, you'll need to meet some basic requirements. Homeowners must be at least 62 years old.
To qualify, you'll also need to live in the home as your primary residence. This means you must have lived in the house for most of the year.
Homeowners with sufficient equity in their home may also be eligible. You'll need to have enough equity to cover the existing mortgage.
You'll also need to meet certain housing requirements. For example, you can own a single-family home, a two-to-four unit owner-occupied home, a townhouse, or an approved condominium.
Here's a quick summary of the eligibility requirements:
- Homeowner(s) must be at least 62 years of age or older.
- Homeowner must live in the home as his/her primary residence and have sufficient equity.
- Ability to pay off existing mortgage through the reverse mortgage loan.
- Live in a single family home, two to four unit owner-occupied home, and townhouse or approved condominium.
Mortgage Amount and Types
Loans offered by states and local governments are often the lowest cost reverse mortgages, and they're usually for specific purposes like paying for home repairs or property taxes.
These specialized loans can be a great option for homeowners who need a little extra help with maintenance or taxes, but they may not be suitable for every situation.
Some reverse mortgages are offered by banks and mortgage companies and can be used for any purpose, giving homeowners more flexibility with their funds.
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How Much Will I Get?
The amount you get from a reverse mortgage usually depends on your age, your home's value and location, and the cost of the loan.
The older you are, the more money you can get. This is because the loan amount is based on your life expectancy, and lenders want to ensure they get their money back.
You can get the loan amount in different ways, including all at once in cash, as a monthly income, as a credit line, or in any combination of these.
Here are some ways you can receive the loan amount:
- All at once in cash
- As a monthly income
- As a credit line that lets you decide how much you want and when
- In any combination of the above
The greatest amounts typically go to the oldest owners living in the most expensive homes getting loans with the lowest costs.
The Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is a federally insured program that often provides the most money.
Types of Mortgages
When choosing a mortgage, it's essential to understand the different types available. There are several options to consider, each with its own unique features.
Some states and local governments offer special purpose loans that can be used for specific expenses, such as home repairs or property taxes. These loans are often the lowest cost option.
Loans from banks and mortgage companies, on the other hand, can be used for any purpose. This gives homeowners more flexibility in how they use the funds.
Here are some key differences between these two types of mortgages:
Mortgage Facts
Reverse mortgages can be a complex topic, but understanding the facts can help you make an informed decision. The costs for loans from banks and mortgage companies usually include an application fee, insurance, origination fee, monthly service fee, closing costs, and interest.
These costs are typically added to the loan balance, which is the amount you owe. It's essential to consider how much more it will cost you before getting a reverse mortgage other than a government or HECM loan.
A reverse mortgage can provide a reliable source of income for seniors who need it, but it's crucial to understand both the pros and cons before making a decision. High costs, including origination fees, servicing fees, insurance premiums, and closing costs, are a significant consideration.
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To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years old, have a significant amount of equity in your own home, and be able to pay all property costs such as insurance, taxes, and maintenance.
Here are the typical costs associated with reverse mortgages:
- Application fee
- Insurance
- Origination fee
- Monthly service fee
- Closing costs
- Interest
HECM loans are often the least expensive reverse mortgage option, and in many cases, they are significantly less costly than other reverse mortgages.
Mortgage Pros and Cons
A reverse mortgage can be a game-changer for seniors struggling to make ends meet, providing a steady source of income that can help cover living expenses.
You don't have to worry about making regular payments back to the lender, which can be a huge relief. The lender will instead pay you either in a lump sum, monthly payments, or as a line of credit.
One of the best things about reverse mortgages is that you can still own your home and retain ownership even if you've borrowed against it. Your lender only has a claim to the equity you've borrowed against.
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Here are some of the benefits of reverse mortgages:
- Eliminate your existing mortgage payments
- Supplement your retirement income
- Pay for medical care, prescription drugs and in-home care
- Make home improvements
You can also use the funds from a reverse mortgage to cover large or unexpected expenses, or to contribute to your grandchildren's college education. This can help you live a more comfortable lifestyle and enjoy your retirement years.
Pros of Mortgages:
Mortgages can be a complex and intimidating topic, but let's break it down to the good stuff. Here are the pros of mortgages:
A mortgage can provide a reliable source of income for seniors who need it, especially if they own their homes. Reverse mortgages can offer a steady source of income without requiring regular payments back to the lender.
You can still own your home with a mortgage, even if you've borrowed against it. The lender only has a claim to the equity you've borrowed against, so you can continue living in your home.
Repayment of the loan is only necessary once the last surviving borrower passes away or no longer occupies the property. This means you can receive the benefits of the loan for as long as you live in your home.
Here are some of the benefits of reverse mortgage loans:
- Eliminate existing mortgage payments
- Consolidate debt
- Supplement retirement income
- Pay for medical care, prescription drugs, and in-home care
- Cover large or unexpected expenses
- Make home improvements
- Contribute to grandchildren's college education
- Live a more comfortable lifestyle
Cons of Mortgages
Mortgages can be a complex and costly financial decision. High costs are a major con of mortgages, including origination fees, servicing fees, insurance premiums, and closing costs that can add up quickly.
These fees and interest rates can vary depending on the lender, the loan, and the location. For example, a high origination fee can be a significant upfront cost.
Reducing the amount of inheritance is another major con of mortgages. The amount of the loan plus interest and fees must be paid back once the last surviving borrower no longer occupies the property.
This can leave a smaller amount of equity in the property, which in turn reduces the amount of inheritance that can be passed on to heirs. It's a trade-off to consider when deciding whether to take out a mortgage.
Limited eligibility is also a con of mortgages. To qualify for a mortgage, you must have a significant amount of equity in your own home and be able to pay all property costs such as insurance, taxes, and maintenance.
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Mortgage Information and Benefits
A reverse mortgage loan can be a game-changer for homeowners in retirement.
With a reverse mortgage, you can eliminate your existing mortgage payments, freeing up more money in your budget to enjoy your golden years.
Here are some ways a reverse mortgage can benefit you:
- Eliminate your existing mortgage payments
- Consolidate debt
- Supplement your retirement income
- Pay for medical care, prescription drugs and in-home care
- Cover large or unexpected expenses
- Make home improvements
- Contribute to your grandchildren’s college education
- Live a more comfortable lifestyle
By leveraging a reverse mortgage, you can enjoy a more comfortable and secure retirement, with the freedom to do what you love.
Mortgage Information
A reverse mortgage can provide a reliable source of income for seniors who need it. It's beneficial for seniors who own their homes, but it's crucial to understand the pros and cons before making a decision.
Large fees are a drawback of reverse mortgages, which can deter some people from acquiring them. A reduction in inheritance is another consideration that should be taken into account.
The choice of whether to apply for a reverse mortgage is a personal one, and it's always wise to consult with a financial advisor before making a decision.
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Mortgage Benefits
A reverse mortgage loan can be a game-changer for homeowners, especially in their retirement years. It gives you the ability to remain in your home and enhance your financial security.
With a reverse mortgage loan, you can eliminate your existing mortgage payments, which can be a huge relief. You can also consolidate debt, supplement your retirement income, and pay for medical care, prescription drugs, and in-home care.
Here are some of the benefits of a reverse mortgage loan:
- Eliminate your existing mortgage payments
- Consolidate debt
- Supplement your retirement income
- Pay for medical care, prescription drugs and in-home care
- Cover large or unexpected expenses
- Make home improvements
- Contribute to your grandchildren’s college education
- Live a more comfortable lifestyle
You can also use a reverse mortgage loan to purchase a new home, which can be a great option for seniors who want to downsize or move to a different location. With a reverse mortgage loan, you don't make loan payments, but you are required to pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance.
Using a Mortgage to Buy a Home
You can use a reverse mortgage loan to buy a home with a single down payment. This is a game-changer for Americans 62 years and older who have equity in their previous home or other cash or savings.
To qualify, you'll need to use the equity from the sale of your previous home, or other cash or savings, to make the down payment. You can't just use a reverse mortgage loan on its own to buy a home.
You won't make loan payments as long as you live in your home as your principal residence and maintain it according to FHA requirements. But you will need to pay your property taxes and homeowners insurance.
The minimum down payment will be based on a factor of your age, interest rates, and the lesser of the home's appraised value, purchase price, or FHA national lending limit. This is a unique aspect of reverse mortgage loans.
Once you've accepted an offer, your Reverse Mortgage Advisor will work with the seller or seller's agent to open escrow with a title or escrow agency familiar with reverse mortgage loans. This is typically the same process as a conventional mortgage.
Reverse Mortgage appraisals, inspections, contingencies, documents, and closings are virtually the same as those with a conventional mortgage. The only difference is the required HUD-approved independent counseling session, which may add a bit to the escrow period.
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Mortgage Features

Some reverse mortgage loans are offered by states and local governments for specific purposes, such as paying for home repairs or property taxes, and these are often the lowest cost options.
These government-backed loans can provide financial assistance for seniors who need it, but it's essential to understand the terms before applying.
Some banks and mortgage companies offer reverse mortgages that can be used for any purpose, giving borrowers more flexibility.
However, these loans often come with higher fees and a reduction in inheritance, which can be a significant consideration for some people.
Reverse mortgages can be a personal choice, and it's always wise to consult with a financial advisor before making a decision.
Here's a comparison of the two types of reverse mortgages:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a reverse mortgage from a bank?
Yes, you can get a reverse mortgage from a bank, as most major lenders offer this option. Contacting a lender will initiate the process, starting with an appraisal to determine your home's value.
What is the 60% rule in reverse mortgage?
The 60% rule in reverse mortgage limits HECM borrowers to the greater of 60% of their total available equity or 110% of their mandatory obligations in the first payout. This rule helps ensure borrowers don't over-borrow against their home's value.
How much will a bank lend for a reverse mortgage?
A bank's reverse mortgage loan amount is typically capped at 60% of the home's appraised value, but can be influenced by factors like age, interest rates, and location. The actual loan amount may vary, so it's best to consult with a lender for a personalized estimate.
What is the major risk for the bank in a reverse mortgage?
The major risk for the bank in a reverse mortgage is that the borrower may owe more on the loan than the home is worth. This can leave the lender with a significant financial loss if the borrower defaults or passes away.
Sources
- https://dfi.wa.gov/homeownership/reverse-mortgages
- https://www.hilltop.bank/personal-services/mortgage-loans/reverse-mortgages/
- https://www.premiercommunity.com/reverse-mortgage.html
- https://www.ithinkfi.org/personal/mortgages/reverse-mortgages
- https://www.i-bankonline.com/lending/mortgage-lending/mortgage-products/reverse-mortgages/
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