Tag Archives: Caregiving

How Much Can You Borrow With A HECM Reverse Mortgage?

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Determining How much is available with a reverse mortgageHave you considered a reverse mortgage and wondered how much you could borrower? Are you concerned that your retirement funds are reduced during this bear market? Having funds available from a reverse mortgage when the market is low can benefit your retirement portfolios. We have borrowers who are thankful they have these funds so they don’t have to pull money from their portfolios while the market is down.

The following outlines how much you could borrow with a Home Equity Reverse Mortgage (HECM) reverse mortgage.

FHA calculates a Mortgage Lending Limit. This is the maximum amount a lender will look at in determining how much will be loaned to a borrower. Initially one cannot borrow 100% of the home value.

There are several factors used to determine the amount of money available to the borrower(s) initially. The amount available to be borrowed is the Principal Limit.

– The Principal Limit depends on:

  • Type of reverse mortgage program chosen
  • Age of the youngest borrower or in the case of an Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse, the age of the younger spouse
  • Current expected interest rate based on a 10-year SWAP, rates are currently low so more funds are available than when they are higher.
  • Appraised value of the home or FHA’s Mortgage Lending Limit; whichever is less
  • For the HECM For Purchase, the appraised value, FHA Mortgage Lending Limit or purchase price, whichever is lower

The amount available for a borrower to use is determined by:

– Principal Limit

  • Less Service Set-aside (if applicable)

– Equals available Principal Limit

– Equals net available to borrower(s) before mandatory obligations. Mandatory obligations are items required to be paid off at closing or during the 1st year. For example, mortgages, liens, judgements, federal debt such as taxes or student loans. It can also include set-asides for repairs and taxes and insurances due in the 1st year.

  • Less any mandatory obligations
  • Less Life Expectancy Set-Aside (LESA) if required or chosen (A set-aside to pay property taxes and hazard insurance in the future)

Use reverse mortgage for whatever desired– Equals net available to be used as borrower(s) desires

One can obtain a HECM reverse mortgage on higher valued homes. The amount borrowed is based on the FHA Mortgage Lending Limit, currently $765,600

While initially you cannot borrow 100% of the home value. Over time with the small monthly loans of interest and FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums being added to the loan balance, your loan balance, or amount you borrowed, could be the home value or more than the value at time of origination. As a non-recourse loan, borrowers or their heirs do not owe more than the appraised home value at the time the loan is being repaid.

Would you like to explore a reverse mortgage for your situation? Contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide free information and facts with no obligation, meeting in person whenever possible.

For other states, contact your local reverse mortgage specialist who is a broker, one who works with several lenders, has their Broker License/NMLS and preferably holds the Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation.

© 2020 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: https://wp.me/p4EUZQ-3yN

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.

Reverse mortgage documents are a way to sign your own declaration of independence

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sign your own declaration of independence with a reverse mortgageJuly 4th we celebrate Independence Day in America honoring the day our country signed the Declaration of Independence. Signing the reverse mortgage documents is a way for seniors 62 and older to sign their own declaration of independence.

Independence is defined as “freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others.” This fits senior’s attitudes, they want to maintain control of their life, make their own decisions and not depend on others for assistance.

Having one’s own funds for home repairs, going out to lunch with friends, traveling, visiting family across the country, purchasing a new car, paying medical bills or for medications; paying for help with housework, meal preparation, yard work or transportation, whatever is desired can give that feeling of independence.

Being able to pay off a mortgage to improve cash flow gives one relief and freedoms. Planning and have funds for the future and long-term care needs as well as protecting other assets and/or delaying taking out Social Security are other ways to have independence.

A new one-level home making it easier to age in place, moving closer to children yet remaining independent are made possible using a reverse mortgage HECM for Purchase.

Some assistance may be needed for seniors to remain in their home such as home care or medical equipment. However, not relying on children or the government for help and being able to choose a home care agency of their choice will give them the sense of independence. Using the equity in one’s one with a reverse mortgage can provide seniors the funds for their independence.

“Now I have my dignity back and my independence” was what Edna exclaimed after her reverse mortgage was closed.

Remain independent with a reverse mortgageAnother Minnesota reverse mortgage borrower, Bea, said, “With a reverse mortgage you begin to have independence anew and you begin to feel more secure. Being free from monetary anxiety, you have better control over spending your equity.” The reverse mortgage allowed Bea to pay off a mortgage, then to travel to family weddings and reunions. Several years after she initially did her reverse mortgage Bea used her reverse mortgage funds to pay for home care that was needed to keep her independent and at home.

Ted, age 91 and Anna age 87, Minnesota homeowners, were proud and didn’t want to discuss their financial situation. However, their son-in-law finally talked to them about obtaining a reverse mortgage. When I met them and we started the reverse mortgage process, the children and I were told they were doing the reverse mortgage so they could put new linoleum on their kitchen floor. Once the loan was closed, I was informed by their children that they had indeed put in the new linoleum along with new windows and they bought some new furniture. The kids were going to Ted and Anna’s and were told, “Don’t pull in the drive way, we just had it blacktopped.” When Ted and Anna went out to eat with their kids, they could pay for their kid’s meals too making them feel good that they could treat their children to a meal.

While Ted and Anna were too proud to let their children know their financial situation initially and they didn’t want to depend on them to assist with their living expenses, once they signed the reverse mortgage documents they kept their independence and had funds for their needs and desires. This also improved their dignity.

Dorothy closed on her HECM reverse mortgage as a tool to strategically manage her assets. The benefits she received from her reverse mortgage include independence and security. She’s used the funds for home repairs & travel, & hasn’t had to use her investments.

A reverse mortgage insured by FHA, an agency within HUD, is known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM. As one of the most protected financial options available for seniors, it allows them to use the equity in their home for whatever they need or want.

Offering the most flexibility of payment options or no payment, with no monthly principal mortgage and interest payments required, cash flow can be improved by receiving money in monthly payments, a line of credit, lump sum or a combination of these. With the growth rate, the line of credit is a wonderful tool for retirement and long term care planing.

The title remains in the borrower’s name and the loan is generally not due until the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrower(s), when they die, sell or move or on their 150th birthday. Repaid from the sale of the property, as a non-recourse loan if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold at fair market value the borrower or their heirs are not responsible for the difference. If the home is sold for more than the amount due then the borrower or their heirs keep the difference.

Working with an estate planner, a reverse mortgage helped Mary plan her retirement so she has funds for emergencies, medical expenses, traveling, leaving something for her heirs, and enjoying life with independence and not be dependent on her children.

Discuss what independence meansAs you bring out the red, white and blue, hang your flags and gather with family to celebrate the independence of this great country of ours, discuss what independence means to your loved ones. What is needed to help seniors remain independent and in their home, not relying on the government or on their children? Then explore a reverse mortgage, get the facts about them, and see if it might be an option for your situation to maintain their independence.

You just might find, as over a million others have, obtaining a reverse mortgage may be just like signing your own Declaration of Independence – then celebrate your independence.

Happy Independence Day!

If you’d like to explore creating your own declaration of independence, contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide free information and facts with no obligation, meeting in person whenever possible.

For other states, contact your local reverse mortgage specialist who is a broker, one who works with several lenders, has their Broker License/NMLS and preferably holds the Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation.

© 2018 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: https://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1QV

Related Articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Do you know your long-term care options and why to consider financing with a reverse mortgage?

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Your road map for long-term care optionsEducation and planning are the keys to making decisions especially when it involves care while aging. You need to be proactive and know what resources and options are available. With the education and a plan you have more options and can be proactive rather than reactive.

As Forest Gump said, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.” This is especially true for aging. I was fortunate to participate in and be considered a trusted advisor at a Minnesota Private Duty Home Care Conference, “Keeping Mom and Dad at Home”. During the conference attendees were encouraged to plan the future as they would a trip, looking at what would they put in their suitcase for the journey of aging and be prepared for what isn’t known to happen along the way.

Conference attendees reviewed what is known about seniors and their families. We looked at what is known about seniors:

  • They underestimate their situations
  • They don’t want to worry or be a burden to their children
  • So seniors don’t tell their children what’s going on
  • They want their families help
  • Families often don’t have the time or the financial means to help
  • Role reversal is uncomfortable
  • They are fearful of nursing homes and moving
  • 93% say they want to stay in their home

Then we looked at what we know about the families of seniors:

  • They want to help
  • They are busy; they are the sandwich generation dealing with their own family, careers, life
  • They see changes but don’t know what they mean or what the warning signs are
  • They may become frustrated with their parents denials
  • Role reversal is uncomfortable
  • It’s generally women who are doing the caregiving.

Consider what’s important to the seniors, what do they want for their journey? It’s important to involve the seniors in the process, the plan, and have them agree with the plan. Discuss their wishes along with what you think is needed. What will provide them their security, independence, dignity and control of their life? Including a mediator and/or trusted advisor is a good idea. If they are resistant to bringing someone else in, discussing their options, or accepting outside help, tell them that they may not need this but that you do.

By being educated and having your plan in place if a crisis occurs means more options will be available along with decreased costs. Being reactive at a time of crisis means less options are available along with greater costs. Emotional and reactive decisions make for poor choices and actions made from regret and guilt.

Part of the education and planning means getting the facts. Unfortunately we have been conditioned to think that seniors will end up in a nursing home; that an assisted living facility provides all the care needed; that home care is short-term and the nursing home and/or assisted living is safer than being at home.

We need to recondition our thinking:Receive home care

  • Seniors can live at home indefinitely
  • Home care can provide a nursing level of care at home
  • Living at home can be safer; you receive a 1 to 1 ratio of care versus 1.5 or more of care per person
  • Living at home is affordable

Let’s compare the costs of some options:

Home Care 1 $1,404/month 3-hour visits, 4 days a week, $27/hour
Home Care 2 $3,276/month 4-hour visits, 7 days a week, $27/hour
Home Care 3 $4,914/month 6-hour visits, 7 days a week, $27/hour
Home Care 4 $8,500/month 24-hour or live in care, one-on-one care, $275/day; includes a live in caregiver and frequent visits from a RN
Assisted Living Rent $3,585/1-bedroom/month Care packages range from $300 – $2,700; additional care would be charged per hour by a home care agency
Assisted Living Rent  & Home Care 1 $4,989/month One bedroom apartment rent plus additional care at 3-hour visits, 4 days a week, $27/hour from home care agency
Assisted Living Rent & Home Care 2 $6,861/month One bedroom apartment rent plus additional care at 4-hour visits, 7 days a week, $27/hour from home care agency
Assisted Living Rent & Home Care 3 $8,499/month One bedroom apartment rent plus additional care at 6-hour visits, 7 days a week, $27/hour from home care agency
Nursing Home $8,000 – $12,000/month Single or double room, level of care and facility amenities

This information and these home care and senior housing figures are a compilation provided by the home care agencies; are approximations and can vary by company and geographic area. Additional home care and senior housing costs were obtained from Genworth Financial, Inc. Cost of Care Survey.

Living in assisted living vs staying at home with a reverse mortgage:

  Selling Staying in home with a Reverse Mortgage
Details: Home Value $200,000; 80 year old borrower   (reverse mortgage funds available will depend on age, generally the older one is more funds available and the program chosen)
Third Party Closing Costs $1,811 $1,811
Less Real Estate Agent/RM Origination Fee & FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium $12,000 (6%) $8,000 (2% origination + 2% FHA MIP)
Net Proceeds $186,119 $102,788 in line of credit; $673 a month tenure-for life of the term of the loan and abiding by the terms of the loan; or term draws structured as needed (based on rates of 2/6/2018; rates change weekly.

Receiving care while remaining at homeNow let’s take the net proceeds and compare living in an Assisted Living to living at home and receiving home care.

Selling and Living in an Assisted Living1 Living at Home using a Reverse Mortgage2
$186,119 ÷ $3,585 (rent only) = $43,020/year or 4 years 4 months

 

 

 

 

 

No remaining equity from home.

 No rent or mortgage payment as long as you live in the home as your primary residence

The tenure draw of $673 would cover property charges

Borrower is still responsible for household maintenance, i.e., taxes, insurance, utilities and stay in your home as long as primary residence (i.e., approximately $585/month for a $200,000 home)

May have retained equity depending on how long you stay in the home and the home appreciation.  The loan is non-recourse.
$186,119 ÷ $4,989 (rent and Home Care) = $59, 868/year or 3 years 1 months

No remaining equity from home.

 Roof over head; funds to cover home care 1 with term draws from RM = 5 years 4 months3

Additionally it is likely that there would still be retained equity in the home after the 5.3 years.  (Based on 4% appreciation $99,318 in equity would be remaining.)
$186,119 ÷ $6,861 (rent and Home Care 2) = $82,332/year or 2 years 3 months

 

No remaining equity from home.

 Roof over head; funds to cover Home Care 2 with term draws from RM = 3 years 4 months3

Additionally it is likely that there would still be retained equity in the home after the 3.33 years.  (Based on 4% appreciation $93,098 in equity would be remaining.)
Then where will you go?

 

 

Some assisted living will accept Medical Assistance or other public programs such as Elderly Waiver, however, your choices may be less.

 You can stay in your home and have a roof over your head without rent or mortgage payment even after funds from a reverse mortgage are used.

Medical Assistance or other public programs such as Elderly Waiver or Alternative Care can be received even with a reverse mortgage.  Reverse mortgage does not impact receiving Medicare or Social Security.

1These rates do not take into consideration rent increases (3%-4% annual according to Genworth Financial, Inc.); it’s likely that the number of years the net proceeds would cover will be less.
2With the reverse mortgage there is a growth rate factor that is passed along to the borrower.
3This time can be extended if you are receiving Medical Assistance or other public programs such as Elder Waiver or qualify for Medicare covered Home Care.

You have option to remain at homeYou have choices and can have control over where want to live and the care you receive. You have the right to say, I want to stay in my home (or keep my parents in their home). When educated and with a plan for the journey, life will be easier.

If you’d like to remain at home and have funds for financing your home care, contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide free information and facts with no obligation, meeting in person whenever possible.

For other states, contact your local reverse mortgage specialist who is a broker, one who works with several lenders, has their Broker License/NMLS and preferably holds the Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation.

© 2018 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: https://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1Ou

Related Articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Is it crucial to have no mortgage in retirement or wiser to do a reverse mortgage?

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Using home equity for retirement cash flowI recently received a comment on a blog post saying that it is, “absolutely crucial that Americans reach the vocational finish line (retirement) with their personal residence being FREE & CLEAR!”  Have you also thought this?

I challenge him, and you, to consider to whose perspective is it crucial?  Your perspective, the homeowners’ or their heirs’ perspectives?  Depending on the report referenced, it’s somewhere between 80% and 90+% who want to remain in their homes and age in place, but even if they want to relocate and downsize, being debt free is less important than living their lives with security, independence, dignity and control.

Statistics show a large majority of senior homeowners have mortgages that they have to pay monthly mortgage payments on.  The debt payments can be a hardship for seniors.  Fortunately with the reverse mortgage, the most common being the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) offered by HUD and insured by FHA, monthly mortgage payments are not required.

Yes, the reverse mortgage is a debt but to be paid back when the homeowners are no longer living in the home as their primary residence.  The reverse mortgage offers flexible payment options, borrowers can choose to make payments when they want, how much they choose to make or make no payment at all.

And yes, reverse mortgage borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes, hazard insurance and if applicable, HOA dues.  But these expenses are part of the responsibility of home ownership whether there is a reverse mortgage, traditional mortgage, HELOC or no mortgage.

The reverse mortgage is a non-recourse loan, which means there is no personal liability to their borrowers or their heirs.

Home equity is a retirement nest egg and to use it for retirement cash flow there are two options, 1) sell it (but then where are they going to live and have improved cash flow for a longer term and for long-term care planning?) or 2) leverage the home equity with a reverse mortgage.  The line of credit option with the HECM offers a growth rate which is not available with any other loan.

Reverse Mortgages can be used for Retirement PlanningFinancial advisors are suggesting using reverse mortgages for retirement planning:  Wall Street Journal points out that advisers are now promoting reverse mortgages as a valuable tool for retirement planning in their article “New Math on Reverse Mortgages.”

As Wade Pfau, Professor of Retirement Income at The American College in Bryn Mawr, PA and a Principal and Director for McLean Asset Management, states in his article, Forbes: Wise Reverse Mortgages Can Be the Saving Grace of Unprepared  Retirees, “…that is the nature of retirement income efficiency: using assets in a way that allows for more income and/or more legacy.”

According to Jamie Hopkins, Co-Director of the American College’s New York Life Center for Retirement Income and an Associate Professor of Taxation at the American College, in Forbes, Reverse Mortgages Can Be A Retiree’s Saving Grace “Robert C. Merton, a finance professor at MIT’s Sloan School of Management, recently stated ‘Americans have wrongly steered clear of reverse mortgages.’”

Even with the HECM changes going into effect on October 2, 2017, the reverse mortgage can be a valuable tool in retirement as it always has been.

In the real world a Reverse Mortgage is another planning toolIn a perfect world, ideally it is to not have debt of any kind including no mortgages, having a huge retirement portfolio to cover one’s lifestyle and long-term care costs. 

However, in the real world, many who have thought they have saved for retirement find that when “life happens” they use those funds quickly.  The reverse mortgage is another tool for planning for retirement and long-term care costs as well as more immediate needs.  This way they have a plan and funds for when “life happens.”

If you’d like to improve your retirement cash flow now or for the future, contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide FREE information and facts with NO OBLIGATION, meeting in person whenever possible.

For other states, contact your local reverse mortgage specialist who is a broker, one who works with several lenders, has their Broker License/NMLS and preferably holds the Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation.

© 2017 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1y7

Related Articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Meet our HECM Reverse Mortgage Borrowers

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Couple benefits from eliminating monthly mortgage paymentsThere are numerous ways homeowners use their Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) proceeds.  Meet our borrowers. . .

Eliminate Mortgage Payments:  Lisa and George** had a small mortgage remaining on their home.  It was difficult to make the monthly payments so they did a Reverse Mortgage to eliminate the payments.  There was a balance that they left in a Line of credit for future use.
(Borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes, insurance, HOA Dues & maintaining home.)

Maintain Lifestyle:  Helen and Harold did a Reverse Mortgage to afford to take their annual trip to Florida during the winter months.  They are thankful they are able to maintain their lifestyle.

Prepare for Emergency:  Earl and Ruth did a Reverse Mortgage to be prepared for an emergency if something were to happen to one of them.

Protect Other Investments:   To have extra spending money without having to cash out their CDs or other investments, Jerry and Carol decided to do a Reverse Mortgage.

Supplement Retirement Income:  Dale and Kevin were two brothers who lived in the home where they were raised.  Being both were over 62 and owners of the property, they were able to do the Reverse Mortgage to supplement their retirement income.

Eliminate Mortgage Payments*, Home Upgrades and Line of Credit:  Dee and Peter did a reverse mortgage to eliminate their current mortgage payment*, take a lump sum for some home upgrades, receive an extra $300 a month in monthly payments to supplement their Social Security, and still have funds in a line of credit for future use.

Purchase a Car:  Bart and Tina wanted to purchase a new car but didn’t have much in the way of savings.  With a Reverse Mortgage they were able to purchase a car.

Purchase Hearing Aide and Home Repairs:  Joe needed a hearing aide but couldn’t afford it with his Social Security benefits.  Rather than taking money from his savings, he did a Reverse Mortgage.  He also used some of the money to put new siding on his home.

Pay Family Caregivers:  Sam and Frances were both in frail health.  Two of their daughters decided to care for their parents rather than hire outside services.  Since they had quit their jobs and it was affecting their family’s financial situation, Sam and Frances decided to do the Reverse Mortgage and use the funds to pay their daughters for the care they were providing.

Reverse Mortgage provides funds for travelingTraveling:  Helen was struggling to meet her living expenses with just her Social Security Benefits.  She also had always dreamed of traveling.  The Reverse Mortgage provided the extra cash she needed and she was able to fulfill her dreams of traveling.

Not Rely on Children:  Nancy had accrued some debt including some credit cards and borrowing from her children.  She did a Reverse Mortgage to pay off those debts and to have a line of credit available for future needs.  She also enjoyed having some extra cash to purchase some things to fix up her home and to go to lunch with friends on occasion.  Because her children had their own expenses and needs, they were relieved that their mother had done the Reverse Mortgage and could live more comfortably without relying on them.

Home Repairs:  Elaine needed some repairs done to her home.  They were more than she could afford on her limited income.  She did the Reverse Mortgage to pay for the repairs and to have extra funds for supplementing her income.

Home Health Care to Stay In Home:  Robert did not want to go to a nursing home, yet he needed long term care.  George, Robert’s son, decided they should do a Reverse Mortgage to pay for the home health care needed to keep Robert at home where he had raised his children.  Robert is happy because he is living where he chooses.  George is happy the family can fulfill Robert’s wishes of staying in his home and still receive the needed care.

Pay Property Taxes:  Dorothy was behind on her property taxes and facing losing her home to the county.  She did the Reverse Mortgage, paying off her back taxes and setting up a Life Expectancy Set Aside (LESA) to pay her future property taxes and insurance.  She was able to live more comfortably, not depending on her children to assist her.

Pay debts and Have Funds for Future:  Bill and Phyllis were preparing for the future.  They did the Reverse Mortgage to pay off their current mortgage*, the credit card debts, and to have money in their line of credit.  With the money in the line of credit when one of them passes away, the other would be able to change the payment plan to receive monthly payments and continue to live the lifestyle they are currently accustomed to, even without the Social Security of their spouse.

Reverse Mortgage provides funds for every day living expensesFunds for Everyday Living Expenses:  Phil became a “new man” since the Reverse Mortgage was done.  He  now goes out to eat with his friends and works in his yard.

Every Day Living Expenses:  Frank and Emma, a vibrant 90 and 86 year old couple, found that each month they were short money to even buy milk.  Their son-in-law and daughter assisted them in obtaining the Reverse Mortgage.  They are so pleased that they now can live more comfortably.  They used the proceeds to receive monthly payments to supplement their Social Security.  They also took out a lump sum to fix up their home and left enough in their line of credit to use as future needs arise.

Payback Family Loan:  Prior to learning about reverse mortgages, when Mabel couldn’t afford her mortgage payments she borrowed money from her son.  When her son needed the money back, once she learned about reverse mortgages she was able to repay him.  With her son paid off, and with no monthly mortgage payments* she was greatly relieved, felt less financial pressure, and had peace of mind knowing she didn’t owe him money and could remain independent.  During the reverse mortgage process she consulted an elder law attorney.  As a result she now has a will, power of attorney, and her health care directives in place.HECM provides funds for home care

Home Health Care: A reverse mortgage allowed Margaret, who had just been released from the rehab center and needed a home health care aide to assist her, have the funds for the care so she could remain in her home.

Purchase a New Home: Mike and Carol decided they needed a 1 level home to fit their changing health needs, they used the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage HECM for Purchase to purchase their new home instead of using conventional financing.

Wouldn't you like to sit back and relax with Security, Independence, Dignity and Control?Wouldn’t you like to sit back and relax with
Security, Independence, Dignity and Control?

Contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide free information and facts with no obligation, meeting in person whenever possible.

When you decide to do a reverse mortgage make sure you work with a local originator or loan officer who specializes in reverse mortgages, has years of experience and knowledge in reverse mortgages in your state, preferably holds the Certified Reverse mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation, licensed in your state, is a broker, working with various lenders, and is willing to meet with you to review the details, before the application, during the application and at closing.

I would caution about working with an originator from another state who is mailing all the documentation, including the application and not “meeting” with you to explain and review what you are signing. (The lenders in another state may send a notary for application and/or closing – they are not licensed mortgage brokers so can NOT answer questions, they are there only to verify your signature.)  Ask for references and find out if the loan originator will be there for you even after the loan has closed.  If you feel pressured, call another originator.  You can find a list of questions to ask an originator at our webite:  www.RMSIDAC.com.

To ensure that borrowers understand reverse mortgages HUD requires anyone doing a reverse mortgage to complete counseling through a third-party.  They will review the program and discuss other options that may be available.

*Borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes, insurance, HOA Dues & maintaining home.

**Borrowers’ situations are real; borrowers’ names changed to protect their identity.

© 2017 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1sL

Related articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Giving Thanks For The Opportunity To Make A Difference

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Happy ThanksgivingIt’s Thanksgiving and the season to reflect and give thanks.  I want to take this opportunity to say I’m grateful for all who are in or have been in my life and have touched it in one way or another.  I’m grateful for the talents God gave me and my parents taught me to use.  And I’m thankful that I have the opportunity to use those talents to assist others and make a difference in their lives.

It’s rewarding to have my reverse mortgage borrowers call and say how much the reverse mortgage has made in their life, for themselves as well as their families.  It is because of you, the customer, that I have the opportunity to serve.

This poem is hanging on my office wall as a wonderful reminder it’s because of YOU…

Because the Customer

Because the customer has a need,
we have a job to do.

Because the customer has a choice,
we must be the better choice.

Because the customer has sensibilities,
we must be considerate.

Because the customer has urgency,
we must be quick.

Because the customer is unique,
we must be flexible

Because the customer has high expectations,
we must excel.

Because the customer has influence,
we have the hope of more customers.

Because of the customer,
we exist!

Anonymous

Thank you to my reverse mortgage borrowers, my referral sources, my vendors, my networks and all who help make a difference in the lives of seniors.  It is because of YOU I exist and am so rewarded.

May you have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

Beth Paterson, CRMP
Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional
NMLS #352859

© Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Basics of Reverse Mortgages You Need to Know

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Home Equity Conversion Mortgage BasicsThe Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, or HECM, is the most common reverse mortgage and only one available in Minnesota.  The HECM was first insured by FHA in 1989 for the purpose of providing a valuable financing alternative for senior homeowners to help them remain in their home and have access to funds by withdrawing a portion of their home equity.

A mortgage like any other mortgage where borrowers retain title and borrow against their home equity, the reverse mortgage offers special terms for seniors home owners 62 and older.  One advantage for seniors is with the reverse mortgage there are no monthly payment requirements although borrowers are responsible for paying property taxes and insurance.  While monthly payments aren’t required, one can make a payment or payments when and how much they choose.

The Principal Limit or maximum loan amount is determined by the home value or FHA Lending Limit, currently $636,150, the age of the youngest borrower (the older one is the more they can receive), the Expected Interest Rate, and the program chosen.  Doing the reverse mortgage at a younger age may still be more beneficial than waiting until one is older.

To qualify borrowers must meet a Financial Assessment requirements demonstrating their ability and willingness to pay property taxes and insurance into the future.  In some circumstances a Life Expectancy Set Aside (LESA) may be required to cover the property taxes and insurance.

Reverse Mortgage BasicsWith the Adjustable Rate option, the funds available can be received in a lump sum, monthly payments, a line of credit or a combination of these.  The monthly payments can be structured as one needs or for life as long as the home is the primary residence.  Funds in the line of credit grow so more funds can be available in the future.  The line of credit growth rate is a feature that makes the reverse mortgage a tool for financial and long term care planning.

A fixed rate option is available however only the lump sum draw is available and the draw amount is limited to the 60% of the Principal Limit (an additional 10% is available in some circumstances).

With a reverse mortgage you hold the keys and titleThe borrowers keep the title to the home and are responsible for property taxes, insurance, and maintaining the home.  Unlike a conventional loan the interest accrues, increasing the balance with no mortgage payments due until the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrower(s) or if one has broken the terms of the loan, i.e. didn’t pay property taxes.

Because the closing costs are up-front, they are often perceived as high and often scare people away.  However, the fees are comparable to the traditional closing costs of a conventional loan including an origination fee, appraisal, title fees, title insurance and recording fees.  As a FHA insured loan, with the HECM borrowers also pay the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP).

The repayment amount is the lesser of the loan balance or fair market value of the home.  If there is remaining equity, it goes to the borrowers or their heirs.  As a non-recourse loan there is no personal liability to the borrowers or their estate for repayment.

Generally the funds are tax-free but one should consult with their tax advisor for their specific situation.

One can have a trust, life estate, or receive Medicaid (Medical Assistance in Minnesota), Elderly Waiver or other public benefits.*  In the case of a couple even if one of the borrowers goes into the nursing home or passes away, the other one can stay in the home and the loan isn’t due until both borrowers are no longer in the home as their primary residence.  Not considered income, Social Security and Medicare are not affected.  *Check with legal advisor for your situation.

Eligible non-borrowing spouses may be able to remain in the home if they meet certain qualifying attributes.  Talk with your local originator and/or HUD approved reverse mortgage counselor for details.

With no limitations on how the funds can be used, through the years hundreds of thousands of seniors have benefitted from the reverse mortgage allowing them to stay in their home and have security, independence, dignity and control.

For further details on the reverse mortgage contact us if you are in Minnesota.  As your local broker, we work with several lenders and provide free information and facts with no obligation, meeting in person whenever possible.  For other states, contact your local reverse mortgage specialist who is a broker, one who works with several lenders, has their Broker License/NMLS and preferably holds the Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP) designation.

© 2016-2017 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1nZ

Related Articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Want Independence? Explore A Reverse Mortgage.

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What gives you a sense of independence?  When I think of independence I think of having freedom of choices and not relying on others.  We all want our independence including seniors.  How can seniors  maintain that independence, have freedom of choices and not rely on others, the government or their children?  A reverse mortgage provides independence for home owners 62 and older.

Having one’s own funds for home repairs, going out to lunch with friends, traveling, visiting family across the country, purchasing a new car, paying medical bills or for medications; paying for help with housework, meal preparation, yard work or transportation, whatever is desired can give that feeling of independence.  Being able to pay off a mortgage to improve cash flow to to save one’s home from foreclosure gives one relief and freedoms.  Being able to plan and have funds for the future and long-term care needs as well as protecting other assets and/or delaying taking out Social Security are other ways to have independence.

While some assistance may be needed for seniors to remain in their home, not relying on children or the government for help and being able to choose a home care agency of their choice will give them the sense of independence.  Using the equity in one’s one with a reverse mortgage can provide seniors the funds for their independence.

“Now I have my dignity back and my independence” was what Edna exclaimed after her reverse mortgage was closed.

Another Minnesota reverse mortgage borrower, Bea, said, “With a reverse mortgage you begin to have independence anew and you begin to feel more secure.  Being free from monetary anxiety, you have better control over spending your equity.”  The reverse mortgage allowed Bea to pay off a mortgage, then to travel to family weddings and reunions.  Several years after she initially did her reverse mortgage more recently Bea is using her reverse mortgage funds to pay for home care that is needed to keep her independent and at home.

Ted, age 91 and Anna age 87, Minnesota homeowners, were proud and didn’t want to discuss their financial situation.  However, their son-in-law finally talked to them about doing a reverse mortgage.  When I met them and we started the reverse mortgage process, the children and I were told they were doing the reverse mortgage so they could put new linoleum on their kitchen floor.  Once the loan was closed I was informed by their children that they had indeed put in the new linoleum along with new windows and they bought some new furniture.  The kids were going to Ted and Anna’s and were told, “Don’t pull in the drive way, we just had it blacktopped.”  When Ted and Anna went out to eat with their kids, they could pay for their kid’s meals too making them feel good that they could treat their children to a meal.

Then one day  Anna and her daughter were sitting at the kitchen table and Anna shared that before their reverse mortgage they used to go 3 days at the end of month without food or even milk because they would run out of money from their Social Security.  As they were sitting there and looking at the paper, Anna exclaimed, “Look, Depends are on sale, I can now stock up.”

While Ted and Anna were too proud to let their children know their financial situation initially and they didn’t want to depend on them to assist with their living expenses, once they signed the reverse mortgage documents they kept their independence and had funds for their needs and desires.  This also improved their dignity.

A reverse mortgage insured by FHA, an agency within HUD,  is known as a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM.  As one of the most protected financial options available for seniors, it allows them to use the equity in their home for whatever they need or want.  With no monthly mortgage payments, cash flow can be improved by receiving money in monthly payments, a line of credit, lump sum or a combination of these.  (Borrowers are still responsible for paying their property taxes and hazard insurance and maintaining the home.)

The title remains in the borrower’s name and the loan is not due until the home is no longer the primary residence, when they die, sell or move or on their 150th birthday. Repaid from the sale of the property, as a non-recourse loan if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold at fair market value the borrower or their heirs are not responsible for the difference.  If the home is sold for more than the amount due then the borrower or their heirs keep the difference. 

As you bring out the red, white and blue, hang your flags and MN Reverse Mortgage Borrower Has Independencegather with family to celebrate the independence of this great country of ours, ask what independence means to your loved ones.  What is needed to help them remain independent and in their home, not relying on the government or on you, their children.   Then explore a reverse mortgage, get the facts about them, and see if it might be an option for their situation to maintain their independence.  Happy Independence Day!

© 2011-2016 Beth Paterson, CRMP, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1my

Related articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





Hearing these statements are reasons to do a reverse mortgage

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Have you heard any of these statements from a homeowner 62 and older?  They may find their solution is a reverse mortgage and they should be encouraged to get the facts to see if the FHA insured Home Equity Mortgage (HECM) is right for their situation.

  • “I want to stay in my home.”Reasons to do a reverse mortgage
  • “My only option is to move.”
  • “I’m planning for retirement.”
  • “I’m not sure how I’m going to afford any potential long-term care costs.”
  • “I can’t afford home health care.”
  • “We can’t afford a mortgage payment.”
  • “We can’t afford to make home repairs or modifications.”
  • “I need money but drawing from my retirement plans have penalties.”
  • “Not enough money at the end of the Social Security check.”
  • “I need help with keeping up my home with housekeeping or yard work.”
  • “I’m downsizing and moving.” or “I’m moving closer to my children.”
  • They can’t afford the little extras that would help them maintain and enjoy their life.
  • They want Security, Independence, Dignity, and Control which they are missing in some way now.

There statements fit into the 5 general reasons to do a reverse mortgage:

  1. Needs based: need funds immediately for covering living expenses
  2. Maintaining lifestyle:  having funds for travel, buying a car, purchasing vacation home
  3. Protecting or delaying draws from other investments:  Using the reverse mortgage to tap home equity rather than accessing other investments or retirement funds that may have penalties or are taxable; let the investments or retirement funds grow so more retirement funds are available later in one’s life; use the home equity so other investments can be left as the inheritance
  4. Planning for long-term care needs (Standby reverse mortgage): Taking the reverse mortgage at a younger age then leaving in the line of credit which grows to have funds to draw from in the future when “life happens”
  5. Purchasing a new home:  Whether downsizing, moving closer to family or buying a dream home, the reverse mortgage can be used for financing.

A reverse mortgage is a mortgage with special terms for seniors 62 and older.  Some of the differences from a traditional mortgage include income and credit scores are not considered to qualify for the interest rate and monthly mortgage payments are not required.  Borrowers are responsible for paying property taxes, insurance, maintaining the home and abiding by the terms of the loan.  Borrowers must meet HUD’s financial assessment qualifications to demonstrate ability and willingness to pay property taxes and insurance into the future.

Rather than a 15 or 30 year term, the loan is due and payable when the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrowers or on the 150th birthday of the youngest borrower. In addition, the reverse mortgage is non-recourse, which means if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for there is no personal liability to the borrower or their heirs.  If the home is sold for more than the loan balance, the borrower or their heirs receive the difference.  The most common and only reverse mortgage available in Minnesota is the FHA HUD insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM.

Options are available!  When you hear any of the above statements remember a reverse mortgage may be the option that is the most beneficial to their situation.

© 2012-2016 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:   http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1m5

Related articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.





TV Show Discusses Facts & Uses of Reverse Mortgages

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Dr. David Johnson discusses Reverse MortgagesAs host of the show Savvy Senior Sources…Talking With Experts, I and my co-host, Deb Nygaard, talk with Dr. David Johnson, Associate Professor of Finance, to help people understand reverse mortgages and some of the benefits, encouraging people to get the facts from a reverse mortgage specialist before making any decisions.

“To not understand or to be misled and think it’s a bad thing is so sad because so many people could benefit from it.” says Dr. Johnson.

Tune in to watch at:

Part 1:  https://youtu.be/GN84e4YRF6Q
Part 2:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsdiIbgKutU

© 2015 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-1dq

Related articles:

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change in in the future. Contact us for current information, 651-762-9648.

This site or the information provided is not from, or approved by, HUD, FHA, or any US Government or Agency.