How Much Can You Borrow With A HECM Reverse Mortgage?

Posted on April 2, 2020 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Determining How much is available with a reverse mortgage Have 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

Less closing costs

– 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)

– 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.

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.

You should understand reverse mortgages before making judgements

Posted on March 8, 2020 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

In a recent article in the Washington Post, Michelle Singletary wrote a well researched, factual article on reverse mortgages. With only a couple corrections needed as noted by Dan Hultquist, author, Understanding Reverse:
1) Older borrowers no longer receive a greater percentage by excluding a younger spouse. This loophole was closed by HUD in 2014.
2) Foreclosures due to property tax defaults are somewhat rare now that underwriters must assess the borrower’s credit history and residual income (2015 change).

Unfortunately many of the commenters responded with misinformation. In this post I’m going to address these comments to clear up the misinformation that seems to continue to spread about reverse mortgages.

Understand reverse mortgage

Be Educated – As with a conventional mortgage, any financial product or even a car or other purchase, one should be educated on what they are purchasing. With the revere mortgage, borrowers are required to obtain counseling from an independent third-party HUD approved counseling to make sure borrowers are educated and understand the product.

Use Equity, not lose it -Borrowers don’t lose their equity; they are using it during the term of the loan, just as with a conventional mortgage. The difference being when the loan is being repaid: on a conventional mortgage one is required to make payments during the term of the loan; on a reverse mortgage, the monthly mortgage payments are not required. The loan is repaid when the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrower(s). As with all home ownership, property taxes and hazard insurance is required to be paid. Because monthly mortgage payments are generally not made on a reverse mortgage, essentially one is borrowing the interest and FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums each month, which increases the loan balance of the loan.

As a non-recourse loan, reverse mortgage borrowers or their heirs do not have to come up with the difference if the loan balance is higher (because they used the equity) than what the home can be sold for. Reverse mortgage borrowers, as with everyone should use their money wisely.

Reverse Mortgages Compare to Conventional Mortgage

Similar to Conventional or HELOCs – The reverse mortgage is a mortgage like any other mortgage, one is using the home equity. Conventional mortgages allow people to purchase a home, does this mean you are over-extending? HELOCs allow people funds for home improvements, travels. The reverse mortgage is similar, but has special terms for those 62 and older as Ms. Singletary points out.

Homeowners have responsibilities, with or without a reverse mortgage – If one doesn’t pay their property taxes, with or without a mortgage, they could be facing foreclosure. This is not due to one having a reverse mortgage. If one doesn’t have hazard insurance without a mortgage and a storm comes along, they could lose their home. All lenders using the home as collateral for the loan require hazard insurance.

Downsizing – Besides people wanting to stay in their homes of many years, downsizing is not always feasible in today’s market because the smaller homes can cost more than staying where they are at. For those who do want to downsize, many are using the reverse mortgage for purchase to do so.

Use Reverse Mortgage for Retirement Planning

Using reverse mortgage for retirement and long-term care planning – Financial planners and advisors are suggesting seniors look at the reverse mortgage for retirement and long-term care planning purposes. Wade Pfau, Professor at The American College, shares often writes about reverse mortgages in Forbes and is the author of Reverse Mortgages : How to Use Reverse Mortgages to Secure Your Retirement. Jamie Hopkins of the American College says home equity including reverse mortgages can be critical engines for retirement income.

As with any financial product or purchase, one should do their research and be familiar with the product and terms…especially before making judgements base on misinformation. Work with an originator who isn’t pushing you into the loan, work with a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional (CRMP), a broker who is local and will meet take time to explain the program and answer your questions.

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 Mortgages Give Reasons For Hope

Posted on April 19, 2019 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

As I was reflecting on the hope that this season brings I got to thinking about the reasons the reverse mortgage gives hope to seniors. Here are some of the reasons for hope with a reverse mortgage. Yes, the list is long but seniors have a long list of wants and needs for hope. With a reverse mortgage one will be able to:

• Stay in one’s home where they may have raised their family, are familiar with the neighborhood and their neighbors and where they usually want to remain.

• Pay off a current mortgage to eliminate the monthly principal and interest of mortgage payments. Have payment flexibility; choose if, when and how much you pay, lowering the loan balance and creating a line of credit which grows allowing more funds for in the future.

• Protect other investments/Hedge against longevity risk.

• Have funds for emergencies and/or long-term care.

• Have improved cash flow with no monthly mortgage payments. (Still have to pay property taxes and hazard insurance, flood and HOA dues if applicable.)

• Protect some of their other retirement funds or investments where there might be taxes or penalties on withdrawals.

Purchase a new one-level home to meet changing health needs

• Purchase a new home to downsize and/or move closer to family

• Have funds for making home improvements or home modifications.

• Retire and not feeling like you have to work just to have money to pay the bills.

• Have cash flow to be able to pay taxes.

• Have funds to pay for home health care.

Reverse Mortgage pays for home care or companion care

• Have funds for some assistance with home care or companion services.

• Have funds for adult day services.

• Have funds for medical expenses and prescriptions.

• Afford going to the dentist.

• Afford new eye glasses.

• Have funds for the needed hearing aid.

• Have funds to cover long term care expenses.

• Cover everyday living expenses.

• Not rely on credit cards.

• Not rely on children.

• Payoff spouse in a divorce.

• Use in probate for an heir to purchase home and pay off other heirs.

HECM Reverse Mortgage Provides funds for extras in life

• Have funds for the little extras in life, like:
○ getting one’s hair done,
○ having cable TV,
○ buying groceries,
○ going to lunch with friends,
○ treating their children to dinner,
○ going to community plays or the theater or a concert,
○ taking the grandchildren to the zoo or a movie,
○ Depends (I had a client say with their reverse mortgage they could now afford to buy Depends),
○ being able to do hobbies.

• Purchase a more dependable car.

• Afford transportation if one can no longer drive.

Afford to travel for family wedding or reunion with a reverse mortgage

• Afford the travel for the family wedding or reunion.

• Take the vacation they have dreamed of all their life.

• Have funds for emergencies.

• Reduce financial stress.

• Save one’s home when faced with foreclosure or tax forfeiture.

• Have funds to full fill needs and goals.

• To live with security, independence, dignity and control.

I have helped seniors where a reverse mortgage has fulfilled all of these reasons and more, providing hope for their future. A reverse mortgage has given hope to thousands of Minnesota seniors so they can remain in their home with security, independence, dignity and control even during trying times. If you know a senior who is looking for hope for one or more of the above reasons, a reverse mortgage may be their answer.

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.

Reasons to obtain a Reverse Mortgage

Posted on April 10, 2019 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

I often hear that people think the reverse mortgage is only for those with an immediate need on their current home. While this is one reason one obtains a reverse mortgage, there are five general reasons to obtain a reverse mortgage. Let’s explore all of these.

Needs based or improving cash flow: Need funds immediately for covering living expenses or wants to eliminate the current mortgage payments.

Lisa and George had a small mortgage remaining on their home. It was difficult to make the monthly payments so they obtained a reverse mortgage to eliminate the payments. There were remaining proceeds that they left in a Line of credit for future use. And they are still paying their property taxes and insurance.

Joe needed a hearing aide but couldn’t afford it with his Social Security benefits. Rather than taking money from his savings, he obtained a reverse mortgage. He also used some of the money to put new siding on his home.

Maintaining lifestyle: Having funds for travel, buying a car, purchasing vacation home; fulfilling dreams or meeting goals.

To fulfill dream of traveling Helen obtained a reverse mortgage

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

Bob’s wife passed away so her Social Security was no longer received. To replace the 2nd Social Security check his financial advisor suggested a reverse mortgage so he could stay in his home and maintain his lifestyle. The reverse mortgage paid off his current conventional mortgage and eliminated his mortgage payments – this improved his cash flow. Then Monthly Draws were set up to add the extra money he needed each month to maintain his lifestyle. Additionally funds were left in the line of credit for future needs.

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.

Dorothy closed on her Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) reverse mortgage as a tool to strategically manage her assets and the benefits she has received from her reverse mortgage. She’s used the funds for home repairs and travel, and hasn’t had to use her investments.

Reverse mortgage provides funds to enjoy retirement and have funds for future

In their mid-70’s, Pat and Mary planned for their retirement. But as their life changed they found there wasn’t enough money to last through the end of the month. With the reverse mortgage in place providing monthly cash flow and a line of credit for other needs, Pat and Mary’s retirement funds may be protected for their future. They are living their retirement years with a good plan along with funds for their current needs. Now they have more money at the end of the month – what a way to live in retirement!

Ray used a reverse mortgage on his primary residence to build a new lake home. Using the reverse mortgage for this purpose meant he didn’t have to tap into other retirement investments, yet created a new investment. His plan is in 10 years to start using his other retirement funds.

Planning for financial or 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.”

Charles and Sharon both in their early 60’s used the reverse mortgage to pay off their conventional mortgage. Since they were still working, they continued to make payments on their reverse mortgage. Their plan is to pay down the reverse mortgage loan balance and increase their line of credit so it grows for their future long-term care needs.

Purchasing a new home: Whether downsizing, moving closer to family or buying a dream home or investment property, the reverse mortgage can be used for the financing.

Richard and Lou needed a one-level home to eliminate stairs that were getting hard to navigate. Instead of using conventional financing or paying cash, they used the HECM for Purchase (H4P) Adjustable Rate. Using cash from the sale and the H4P, they were able to purchase their dream home at a higher value than paying cash would have allowed, have funds for moving expenses and still have funds in a line of credit.

Mike and Carol decided they needed a one-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. This benefitted their cash flow and meant they didn’t have to tap other retirement funds.

Jim and Paula used the fixed rate reverse mortgage to purchase a new home closer to their children.

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.

HECM Reverse Mortgages and Non-borrowing Spouses, What You Need To Know

Posted on February 8, 2019 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Reverse mortgage can be done with a non-borrowing spouse

There are times when one is looking into a reverse mortgage but there is a spouse that is not 62. HUD implemented some options and protections for some non-borrowing spouses. Let’s take a look at what you need to know about the HECM Reverse Mortgages and Non-borrowing spouses.

A Non-Borrowing Spouse is the spouse, as determined by the state law where the spouse and borrower/ mortgagor live at the time of closing, but is not a borrower on the loan.

Non-Borrowing Spouses must comply with FHA’s requirements.

Non-Borrowing Spouses do not need to be 62 at the time of the closing, however, the amount of proceeds available are based on the age of the younger borrower or Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse.

Non-Borrowing Spouses may qualify for a Deferral Period. The Deferral Period is the time following the death of the borrower during which the due and payable status is deferred for a Non-Borrowing Spouse.

For Non-Borrowing Spouses on loans as of April 25, 2014, the borrower must be legally married at the time of closing in order for the Deferral Period to apply.

In 2015 HUD clarified the eligibility of Non-Borrowing Spouses:

An Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse is one who is married to the borrower and occupies the home and has their age used for determining the principal limit or maximum claim amount of the loan. The Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse maybe protected by the deferral period.
An Ineligible Non-Borrowing Spouse is one who is married to the borrower but does not occupy the home and their age is not used for determining the principal limit or maximum claim amount of the loan. Ineligible spouses are not protected by the Deferral Period.

Borrowers and Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouses must respond annually to the marital status certificate and occupancy status certificate. HECM provides funds for retirement

The Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse must:

Have been the spouse of a HECM borrower at the time of the loan closing and have remained the spouse of the borrower during of the borrower’s life.
Have been properly disclosed at origination and named as a Non-Borrowing Spouse in the HECM loan documents.
Have occupied, and continued to occupy, the property secured by the HECM as their Primary Residence.

If a divorce occurs, the borrower must provide a copy of the divorce degree. The Non-Borrowing Spouse is no longer eligible for protections and the Deferral Period and not required to provide the annual certificates.

The Deferral Period will not apply to anyone the borrower is not married to at the time of closing but marries in the future.

The home must be the primary residence of the borrower at the time of their death in order for the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse to qualify for the Deferral Period.

If the borrower dies before a Non-Borrowing Spouse, the due and payable status will be deferred as long as the Eligible Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to meet all the qualifying attributes and satisfies the requirements:

Establish legal ownership or on-going legal rights to reside in the property secured by the HECM within 90 days from the death of the last surviving HECM borrower.
Ensure all obligations of the HECM borrower(s) continue to be satisfied after the death of the last surviving borrower.
Ensure that the HECM does not become due and payable for any other reason after the death of the last surviving borrower.

The due and payable status is in the Deferral Period only for the time the Non-Borrowing Spouse continues to meet all requirements of the loan and the property remains the Principal Residence of the Non-Borrowing Spouse. If any conditions cease to be met, the Deferral Period ends and the loan immediately become due and payable.

The HECM is non-assumable therefore the proceeds of the HECM are not available for use or disbursement to any Non-Borrowing Spouse during the Deferral Period.

The HECM funds will only be made available during the Deferral Period for items specified in the loan documents, i.e., from Repair Set-asides for required repairs outlined during the origination period and required to meet FHA insurability and are satisfactory and completed during the established time frame. No unused funds will be disbursed.

The mortgage will continue to accrue interest based on the terms of the mortgage and loan agreement at the time of closing.

The FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) will continue to be charged and sent to FHA.

If applicable, servicing fees will still be collected i accordance with the terms of the loan.

Non-borrowing spouse may qualify for due and payable deferral period

When the Deferral Period ends and the loan is called due and payable, the interest, MIP and servicing fees if applicable, along with any proceeds received from the borrower during the term of the loan will become due.

Don’t run from a reverse mortgage if your spouse isn’t yet 62 but know HUD’s rules. Take time to understand and have the facts.

If you’d like to understand and get the facts on reverse mortgages? 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.

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.

Free Webinar on using a HECM for Purchase for your older home buyer’s

Posted on April 11, 2018 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Using Reverse Mortgage to Purchase New Home The National Reverse Mortgage Lender Association (NRMLA) is hosting a free webinar on using a reverse mortgage to purchase a new home during the 3^rd annual Reverse Mortgage Education Week. Reverse Mortgage Education Week is dedicated to teaching more people about the benefits of reverse mortgages, how they work, and how loan proceeds can be used to support aging in place.

Typically older homebuyers aged 62 and older, who don’t usually qualify for a conventional mortgage, or want a monthly mortgage payment, would need to pay cash for their new home. However, there is another option, FHA’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for purchase, H4P.

Seniors have used the H4P to purchase their dream home, downsize to a home more convenient for their changing health needs and move closer to their children.

Join us for “Serving the Boomer Market: Guidance for Meeting Older Buyers Needs with HECM for Purchase,” an informational webinar for Realtors and agents who work with older buyers. NRMLA CRMPs Chris Bruser and Christina Harmes, Realtor Scott Degnan, and Scott Owens the General Manager of an active adult community, will explain the process for using a reverse mortgage to purchase a home and provide examples of how buyers, and sellers, can benefit from H4P.

What: Free Webinar: Serving the Boomer Market: Guidance for Meeting Older Buyers’ Needs with HECM for Purchase
When: April 24, 2018, 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET
Registration: http://bit.ly/2GxO56u

For more background on reverse mortgage loans and HECM for Purchase, take a look at these resources and media coverage that shows how the responsible use of a reverse mortgage can enhance a retirement plan:

We Were Able To Use A Reverse Mortgage To Purchase Our Beautiful New Home
How Can A Reverse Mortgage Be Used In One’s Financial Plan?
A Minnesota Reverse Mortgage Borrower Speaks Out On The Benefits With Her Reverse Mortgage
NRMLA: Resources for Realtors® and Agents
Toolkit: Using a Reverse Mortgage to Buy a Home
Video Testimonial: Personal Financial Columnist Terry Savage Gets Personal
ThinkAdvisor: “Reverse Mortgages Could Be Next Hot Topic in Retirement Planning”
NRMLA: “Today’s Reverse Mortgages: Flexible with a lot of built in protections”
Kiplinger: “Reverse Mortgages That Work”
Wall Street Journal: “A Reverse Mortgage to Buy a Home? Here’s How”
US News and World Report: “Should Retirees Buy a Home with a Reverse Mortgage?”
CBS News: “A Smart Way for Seniors to Tap Home Equity”
Chicago Tribune: “Can a Reverse Mortgage Stabilize a Wobbly Retirement-Income Stool?”
Forbes: “Using a Reverse Mortgage in a Responsible Retirement Income Plan”
Kiplinger: “Why Reverse Mortgages are Worth a Look”

NRMLA’s Reverse Mortgage Education Week runs from April 23rd-27th. Check here for the calendar of all webinars.

If you’d like to learn how to utilize a reverse mortgage to purchase a new home, 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.

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-1G5

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.

How Can A Reverse Mortgage Be Used In One’s Financial Plan?

Posted on March 1, 2018 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Using Reverse Mortgage for financial planning In 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 a 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.”

Financial advisors, planners, insurance agents, wealth managers, estate planners, tax advisors and other financial professionals are realizing the value of using one’s home equity, especially the HECM reverse mortgage, to be part of one’s plan. There is even some discussion on the importance discussing the reverse mortgage as an option for one’s retirement plan by professors of finance at various universities.

Here are some ways a reverse mortgage could be utilized as part of one’s retirement plan.

Protect other investments/Hedge against longevity risk – With the reverse mortgage in place and having cash available, borrowers’ can protect their other investments and retirement portfolios to hedge against longevity risk if those decrease or not have to draw on those, especially in a down market. They can still have cash flow yet save the investments for future use or use those funds for an inheritance.

Eliminate current mortgage payment – By using the reverse mortgage to pay off the current mortgage it allows one to improve their cash flow and have more flexibility for their retirement planning. (Borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes and hazard insurance.)

Payment flexibility – Payments on the reverse mortgage are not required. However borrowers can choose to make payments in an amount they choose and when they choose. If they use the reverse mortgage to pay off their current mortgage and then continue making payments, the payment will reduce the loan balance and be applied to their line of credit. The funds in the line of credit will grow, meaning they will have funds in the future to re-borrow without refinancing and having to pay closing costs again.

Another big plus with the payment flexibility is if one can’t make a payment because they are no longer working or have a medical expense, they will have better cash flow management.

Funds for emergencies and/or long-term care – The HECM Adjustable Rate has a line of credit option with a growth rate. Taking out the reverse mortgage at an earlier age and leaving the line of credit to grow will provide more funds for emergencies and/or later when it’s likely they will need long-term care.

Purchase a new home – Rather than using cash, other retirement funds or a conventional mortgage, the HECM reverse mortgage for purchase (H4P) offers a stronger strategy. See page 19 for more details.

Proceeds are not taxable income – Because it is a loan, the reverse mortgage proceeds are not considered income and therefore not taxable. Therefore one can draw from the line of credit and not have the tax liability unlike some other retirement investments may have.

Continue working but have funds when not able to – Doing the reverse mortgage with a line of credit now could mean more funds available in the future. Borrowers can choose to continue working but when they can’t work anymore, or choose not to, they could have funds to replace their income.

While working they could choose to make payments on their reverse mortgage but then stop making payments when no longer working and take monthly draws or draws as needed to replace their work income.

Social Security claims – With the reverse mortgage in place the proceeds could replace the Social Security income when one spouse passes and they lost the 2nd Social Security income. They could set up receiving monthly payments so their cash flow continues allowing them to maintain their lifestyle.

One could use reverse mortgage proceeds to delay taking Social Security as part of their plan meaning they would increase their monthly Social Security benefits. The CFPB has cautioned about this strategy. Borrowers should consult with their financial advisors to determine if this would be a strategy for them and what is best for their situation.

Available funds even with lower home value – Because the funds are guaranteed to be available based on the home value at the time of closing (FHA insurance benefit), if home values decline (remember 2008?), the reverse mortgage borrower could still have access to more funds than the value of the home and the line of credit will continue to grow even if the home value declines.

Not depend on children – If one needs addition funds for maintaining lifestyle, medical expenses, long-term care, etc, the reverse mortgage could provide funds so they don’t have to rely on their children.

If children want to tap their financial portfolio to help care for their parents, a reverse mortgage on the parents home may be a better plan; providing funds for the parents needs and preserving the child’s portfolio for their own future.

Long-term Care Insurance – One may not qualify for long-term care insurance or afford the premiums so the reverse mortgage line of credit could act as an “insurance” to cover the long-care needs.

If one does qualify for long-term care insurance, the reverse mortgage line of credit could provide funds allowing a higher long-term care insurance deductible and a longer waiting period before drawing from the long-term care insurance.

Payoff spouse in a divorce – The reverse mortgage can be used to pay off a spouse going through a divorce, allowing one spouse to remain in the home.

Use in probate – In the case of the death of a parent, the reverse mortgage could be used to pay off a sibling or siblings so one can remain in the home or purchase the family home. This is beneficial when one child has been living in the home and taking care of the parent(s), and wants to remain in the home.

I am not a financial planner/advisor, accounting advisor/CPA or an attorney. This information is provided as ideas to use for one’s plan. One should consult with their financial, accounting and/or legal advisor on what works for their situation.

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.

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 Realize How A HECM Reverse Mortgage Compares to A Conventional Mortgage?

Posted on January 24, 2018 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Comparing HECM Reverse Mortgage to a Conventional Mortgage Most people have, or had, a conventional mortgage using them to purchase their home or have refinanced …yet the reverse mortgage is often misunderstood.

A reverse mortgage is a mortgage where the lender puts a lien against the property, just like conventional mortgage, but with special terms for those 62 and older.

The Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM, the most common reverse mortgage is insured by FHA 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.

Let’s compare the two.

	Conventional/Traditional Mortgage	Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Reverse Mortgage
Loan Collateral	It is a loan using the home as collateral.	It is a loan using the home as collateral.
Title/Ownership	The title stays in the borrower’s name, they remain the homeowner.	The title stays in the borrower’s name, they remain the homeowner.
Interest Rate	Interest rate can be impacted by one’s income and credit score. Limited income and poor credit means a higher interest rate.	Income or credit scores don’t affect the interest rate.
Qualifying	Income and credit history and scores are used to for qualifying; low income or and a poor interest may mean one doesn’t qualify for the conventional mortgage.	Income and credit history are used to for qualifying; to determine if borrowers meet HUD’s Financial Assessment requirements. If one has a history of late payments on debt and a low residual income a Life Expectancy Set Aside may be necessary. Under some circumstances they may not qualify.
Closing Costs	Closing costs include origination fee, appraisal, title and recording fees. If doing a “Forward” FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums are charged. On conventional mortgage one may purchase Mortgage Insurance. Closing costs are comparable to reverse mortgages…I’ve done side-by-side comparisons. (Contact us for a copy.)	Closing costs include origination fee, appraisal, title and recording fees. FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums are charged. Closing costs are comparable to any conventional mortgage…I’ve done side-by-side comparisons.

Loan Amount Borrowed

Amount borrowed is based on appraised value of home, credit score and program chosen.

Initial amount borrowed is based on the age of the youngest homeowner, appraised value or FHA Lending Limit, expected interest rate and program chosen.

Over time the amount borrowed increases with the interest rate, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium and draws being added to the loan balance. At some point it is possible to borrow more than the value of the home at the time the loan was initiated.

If payments are made (they are optional), then they could decrease the loan balance.

Receipt of Funds

Conventional mortgage funds are drawn as a lump sum.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) creates a line of credit for a specific term and specific amount.

Can receive funds as monthly payments, line of credit, lump sum or a combination of these.

Line of credit grows so more funds become available over time.

Use of Funds

Borrowers purchase a home or refinance to have funds for what they need or want.

Borrowers benefit by having access to funds for whatever they need or want. It can be used for more immediate needs or as a financial planning tool or even to purchase a home.

Monthly Mortgage Payments

With a conventional mortgage or HELOC one has to make monthly mortgage payments. If the mortgage payments aren’t made, usually within 3 to 4 months, the foreclosure process will begin.

The advantage is they don’t have monthly mortgage payments to make which takes away the risk of foreclosure from not making a monthly mortgage payment.

Payment Requirements

Payments are required to be made. One has to refinance to access more funds.

Payments can be made, it’s a choice of the borrower as to when, how much, how often. Making payments reduces the loan balance.

With the adjustable rate the funds are applied to the line of credit and can be borrowed without refinancing.

Interest

Interest is paid each month along with the principal. Reducing the loan balance over the term of the loan.

If one has a balloon payment the full payment would be required at the end of the loan term…generally 10 to 15 years.

Interest is accrued over the life of the loan. This increases the loan balance over the term of the loan.

If one chooses to make payments, the loan balance will be decreased by the of payment made.

Borrower’s Responsibilities

Borrowers are responsible for keeping insurance on the property, paying property taxes and maintaining the home. As long as they abide by the terms of the loan they are not forced from their home.

If they don’t abide by the terms of the loan, they risk a foreclosure.

Borrowers are responsible for keeping insurance on the property, paying property taxes and maintaining the home. As long as they abide by the terms of the loan they are not forced from their home.

If they don’t abide by the terms of the loan, they risk a foreclosure.

Loan Term/Due Date

It is a loan and does need to be repaid over the life of the loan. A conventional mortgage loan term is generally 15 or 30 years. A HELOC’s loan term is generally 10 to 15 years.

It is a loan and does need to be repaid at the end of the loan term. The reverse mortgage loan is not due and payable until the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrower or on their 150th birthday. (Or if they don’t abide by the terms of the loan.)

Equity Difference When Sold

When the loan is being repaid, if the home is sold for more than the loan balance, the borrower or their heirs receive the difference.

Non-Recourse

Conventional loans can be non-recourse; it’s determined by the lender. Without the non-recourse factor the lender can be repaid from other assets of the borrower.

All reverse mortgages are non-recourse which means there is no personal liability to the borrower or their heirs. The loan is paid back only from the property.

FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium Covers

If the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for when the loan is due, the FHA Mortgage Insurance covers the difference to the lender; the borrower or their heirs or tax dollars don’t cover this difference.

Staying in home when all funds used

Borrowers stay in their homes even when all funds are drawn as long as they abide by the terms of the loan.

Once a reverse mortgage is in place, even if one draws all the funds available from the reverse mortgage, the borrowers can stay in their home as long as they abide by the terms of the loan, i.e. pay property taxes and insurance, HOA dues if applicable, and maintain the home.

Protections

No counseling required.

Requires counseling by a HUD approved 3^rd party counselor as a protection to help borrowers understand the details of the reverse mortgage. The processing cannot start until the counseling has occurred.

HUD regulates what lenders and third-parties may charge stating they must be customary and reasonable costs necessary to close the mortgage. Mark-ups are not allowed.

Disclosures and sample closing documents must be provided to borrowers at application.

Lender/Bank and Investor Benefit

Lender makes money on the interest.

Would you loan money without receiving a benefit?

Lender makes money on the interest.

Would you loan money without receiving a benefit?

Loan Officer Explaining Reverse Mortgage As with any financial product, or any purchase for that matter, one should get the facts and understand the terms.

The loan officer one is working with should be explaining the features and terms of the reverse mortgage. Yes, unfortunately there are bad apples in every industry but that doesn’t mean the product is bad. The reverse mortgage industry has implemented protections to prevent borrowers from scam.

Understanding reverse mortgages one might find the reverse mortgage is a more viable option for their situation.

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.

Blog posts’ information is current as of date post published, program is subject to change 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?

Posted on September 27, 2017 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Using home equity for retirement cash flow I 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 Planning Financial 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 tool In 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.

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.

Should you do a HECM Reverse Mortgage or leave an inheritance?

Posted on May 22, 2017 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Leaving home as inheritance with reverse mortgage? “I want to leave an inheritance for my kids.” “I want my son to get my house.” “The reverse mortgage will eat up my inheritance.” “The reverse mortgage isn’t good for the kids.” “The reverse mortgage should only be done with those who don’t have children.” These are statements that are often seen or heard when a reverse mortgage is mentioned.

My questions are, do the children have the money needed to cover the costs of mom’s or dad’s needs today if they don’t have the money and don’t do a reverse mortgage? Will they have the funds in the future when there are needs? Do the children even want the house?

Even financial planners helping their clients have funds for planning their long-term needs who suggest exploring a reverse mortgage hear, “I want to leave the house to my children.”

Let me share a story. As I always do, I have a discussion on the needs and desires of one who is considering a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) or a reverse mortgage. In this one particular situation, the woman, Chris*, was living off her Social Security income of about $600 a month. She needed new teeth, new glasses, some new clothes, and her home needed some repairs. She loved going to plays but couldn’t even afford the community plays for $5 to $10. Doing a reverse mortgage would help Chris “live with more” so she completed the application.

Son concerned about inheritance with reverse mortgage A few days later she called to say she decided not to proceed. When I inquired why the change, she replied that her son didn’t want her to do it. After some exploratory questions as to why, she said her son wanted her home after she had passed away so he could rent it out and make money.

How outrageous is this?

Was she really going to do without all the things she needed as basic necessities not to mention just being able to have some money for a few extra things to enjoy life while she’s still alive just so her son could make money off her house after she passed away?

While I was astounded by this response, I kept my tongue in check and calmly asked her if her son was going to provide the money she needed now or was she going to do without the glasses, teeth, clothes, and home repairs so her son could benefit after she passed away. She said, “Of course not, he doesn’t have the money to help me.”

In another situation, the daughter was living with her parents, Gale and Glen*, helping them around the house and with their care. The couple decided to do the reverse mortgage to pay off their current mortgage because when something happened to one of them the other could not afford to make the monthly mortgage payments on their current conventional mortgage.

The daughter was concerned about where she’s going to live when both of her parents are no longer in the home as their primary residence. Even without her parents doing the reverse mortgage, with their current mortgage in place, she would have to figure out a way to pay off that mortgage to remain in the home.

Is living from Social Security check to Social Security check just to get by and maybe doing without some of the things in life that give dignity such as having lunch with friends, getting one’s hair done, or having cable TV really a good option over a reverse mortgage?
Maybe you have some savings, funds in retirement plans, is it enough to cover your long-term care needs?
Why should one be more concerned about leaving an inheritance than having their independence and control of their life and living comfortably?
Why do children think they deserve an inheritance rather than their parents being able to live comfortably, have security, independence, dignity and control of their lives?
Aren’t these the same things every one of us wants?
Why would one deny your parents of living life comfortably?

Even if one’s children are able to help their parents financially today, do their parents really want to be dependent on their children? What happens if “life happens” to their children, they lose their job, get sick, have to come up with money to pay for their kid’s college, etc. and they no longer have the funds to help their parents? This can impact everyone!

Reverse Mortgage provides funds for enjoying life Maybe one doesn’t have immediate needs for funds as Chris did. In planning for the future, using the reverse mortgage line of credit that grows over time, could be beneficial to provide funds when those needs arise. The reverse mortgage funds could mean one doesn’t have to tap their other retirement funds or they could supplement them.

What if one needs home care or has medical expenses? Why should one do without needed care so they can leave an inheritance? Why do children think they should receive an inheritance over their parents having the dignity of paying for their own care and expenses?

If one moves into senior housing, whether independent living, assisted living or skilled care, does one really think there will be funds left to leave for an inheritance? Or will the children have to help pay for the senior housing? Whether private pay or services paid by Medicaid or other government funds, there may not be an inheritance.

And whose money is it anyway? Who should benefit from the use of funds or assets that the senior worked so hard for? Shouldn’t the money and assets be used for whatever one’s parents need or want?

Many seniors say, “My kids are doing better than I am.” This is often the case but even if this isn’t the case, why should one be concerned about leaving money after their gone?

A reverse mortgage is a loan against one’s home to allow seniors 62 and older to remain in their home with security, independence, dignity and control. The most common, and only one available in Minnesota, is the FHA insured HECM. The reverse mortgage offers many benefits including:

No monthly mortgage payment requirements (one must abide by the terms of the loan including paying paying property taxes, keeping hazard insurance on the home and abiding by the terms of the loan)
Income or credit are not used to qualify for a low interest rate.
The loan is due and payable when the home is no longer the primary residence of the borrower(s) or on the 150th birthday of the youngest borrower.
As a non-recourse loan, if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for at fair market value, the borrower or their estate are not responsible for the difference. And the opposite is true too, if the loan balance is lower than what the home is sold for, the borrower or their estate receives the difference.
The borrower remains the owner of the home with the title staying in the name of the borrower(s).

In addition, the reverse mortgage has many protections, likely more than any other financial product or service. To learn what these are read, “You Need To Know Reverse Mortgage Borrowers Are Highly Protected.”

I’m happy to say Chris did proceed with her reverse mortgage. And for years afterwards I received at least one call, sometimes a couple calls, a year saying she’s so relieved to have the money to meet her needs. Besides the initial needs, she has had funds to fix her car when it needed some repairs, to cover some medical expenses and she had funds to take a trip to attend a family wedding. And yes, she’s even enjoying the community plays every now and then.

Once Chris passes away her son will have the opportunity to keep the home by obtaining a conventional mortgage to pay off the reverse mortgage. If he’s renting the property out, the rent payments he will be receiving will cover the mortgage payment – he could still make money if priced accordingly. In the meantime Chris is remaining in her home with the security, independence, dignity and control she deserves and enjoying her life.

For Gale and Glen’s daughter when they are no longer in the home, if she wants to stay in that home, she would need financing to pay off her parent’s reverse mortgage. This may be done by obtaining conventional loan, a reverse mortgage if she qualifies, or from funds as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or other retirement programs.

So what do you think is better? Doing without today just so a child can have an inheritance or the senior being able to fulfill one’s needs and wants while they are alive?

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

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.

Minnesota Reverse Mortgages SIDAC

Minnesota Reverse Mortgage Information, Facts and News from the Experts Excelling in Service

Tag Archives: FHA

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