One Bad Apple Spoils The Bushel of Reverse Mortgages

Posted on October 26, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Reverse Mortgage Apples Every industry has their bad apples and reverse mortgages are no exception. However the few and far between “bad apples” in the reverse mortgage industry are not representative of the industry or the product as politicians, media and some reporters are stating. Headlines such as “Beware of Reverse Mortgages” is a disservice to seniors because it scares away the seniors who could benefit from a reverse mortgage. So even the reporters and politicians are bad apples spoiling the bushel of reverse mortgages.

There is little evidence of subprime lending and fraud with reverse mortgages. The National Consumer Law Center Report recently released which claims reverse mortgages are the next subprime mortgage is not based on statistical evidence. As Peter Bell, President of the National Reverse Mortgage Lender’s Association has pointed out, the cases sited in this report are over 3 years old and some have been dismissed in the legal system.

Some of the instances mentioned in this report are not abuses by lenders but by those who took advantage of seniors who had the reverse mortgage. My Blog article, “It is NOT Reverse Mortgage Fraud When…” outlines some claims of reverse mortgage fraud that aren’t really reverse mortgage fraud.

Let’s look at the bad apples of fraud in the reverse mortgage industry:

One bad apple was where a scheme was set up to flip homes using a reverse mortgage.
Another bad apple was an investor who sells the property using a quit claim deed then the buyer applies for a reverse mortgage using an inflated appraisal and a fake mortgage company. The senior then refinances using a reverse mortgage paying off all debts including the fake mortgage providing the investor funds – some of these seniors were homeless prior to the scheme and didn’t understand the terms of the loan or the need to pay taxes and insurance on the property. Protections have been implemented to stop these types of schemes.
An originator who proceeded with the loan closing knowing the borrower had passed away was another bad apple.
HUD has charged another bad apple for violating HUD’s regulations and is in the process of proceedings to have that company’s FHA license pulled and the people involved will be put on HUD’s sanction list and not be allowed to work in the industry. (This lender does both conventional and reverse mortgages – the violations were based on conventional loans, not reverse mortgages s0 this was not really reverse mortgage fraud but it likely could have been.)

Out of all the reverse mortgage lenders and reverse mortgages these are the only instances I found to be real fraud and this is not an issue with the product itself but with a person or persons. If there are more, I couldn’t find them in my search of reverse mortgage fraud through the many sites and articles found at the FBI, Federal Trade Commission, HUD, National Reverse Mortgage Lender Association, and other industry reports. Obviously with only these instances, reverse mortgage schemes and fraud are not increasing or set to be the next subprime focus.

Yes, there is always a risk of potential increase of scams and fraud as there is a risk of increase of scams with anything including increase of theft from a store, identity theft, medical or insurance practices or products, on and on. And while everyone doing a reverse mortgage, a conventional mortgage or any financial transaction should know the facts and beware of scams, three or four instances does not mean the product should be avoided. Would you stop shopping because it involves using cash or a bank card just because there is a risk of increase of theft or identity theft? No, you just take precautions. Do you stop driving your car because there is a risk of increase of car theft. No, of course not, you just take precautions.

HUD has many protections in place making the reverse mortgage the safest loan available to seniors. These protections include required third-party counseling, now with a new protocol (see my Blog article “New Protocol for Reverse Mortgage Counseling”), regulating fees, prohibiting cross-selling, implementing a wait period for home purchases (a result of a scam) as well as review of marketing practices and disclosure of fees.

Meg Burns, Director, FHA Single Family Program Development U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has stated, “the program has the potential to benefit seniors with a wide variety of financial needs and, as such, should be thoughtfully considered by all seniors making financial planning decisions.” She has stated that widespread abuse is unsubstantiated and shares the reverse mortgage industry’s concern about decisions based on lack of knowledge, as outlined in her statement, “I have grave concerns about the overzealous attention by legislators to the reverse-mortgage sector. Federal regulators are going to pay attention, but they don’t know the product. We have yet another party entering this world who wants to layer on additional consumer protection, but they don’t understand the product well enough-[and yet] we have auditors nipping at our heels.”

Instead of highlighting how many seniors have benefitted from the hundreds of thousands reverse mortgages that have been done and how originators have bent over backwards to help seniors save their home from foreclosure, eliminate mortgage payments, have cash to repair or modify their home or have funds for medical expenses or home health care, or funds for their retirement during the economic downturn the media and politicians focus on the rare instance of fraud.

Consider a few of the many comments we have received on how the reverse mortgage made a difference for seniors:

“Thank you! I now have my bills paid, money in the bank, and I can take a vacation this summer.”
“It helps me keep up with bills I cannot cover with my limited income. It also allowed me to remodel my home to improve its value and be more comfortable. I greatly appreciate it.”
“The Reverse Mortgage helps out a great deal and solves many problems.”
“It has relieved us of a great deal of stress and makes grocery shopping a lot easier too.”
“The only way we could comfortably stay in our home of 42 years”
“A reverse mortgage means I’ll have a place to live even in case of serious illness.”

Options should be considered however their homework has not been done when reporters, politicians, and even “senior advocacy” groups state:

“The reverse mortgage should be a last resort.” A last resort to what? As one of my borrowers stated, “When retired it is the last resort.”
“Get a home-equity line.” First, most seniors don’t qualify for a conventional loan and if they could, they would have to make payments (often what they are trying to eliminate or avoid). And even if they can afford the payments today, what happens when “life happens” and they juggle between making mortgage payments, paying their utilities or paying medical bills and putting food on the table.

Besides, the reverse mortgage IS a home equity loan. It is a home equity loan with special terms for seniors including no income or credit score qualifications, no monthly payments and is a non-recourse loan insured by FHA with a lower interest than they can qualify for with a conventional “forward” loan. The loan is not due and payable until the home is no longer the primary residence or on their 150^th birthday. It also offers more flexibility on how they can receive their funds including monthly payments, line of credit, lump sum or a combination of these.

“Sell and move.” Most seniors want to stay in their home where they have raised their children, are familiar with the neighbors and neighborhood and have a lot of emotional ties. Additionally moving and selling can cost more than a reverse mortgage. Read my Blog, “I Want To Stay In My Home – Don’t Tell Me To Sell!” which compares the costs.

Another common misstatement and myth is “reverse mortgages have high fees.” Actually the costs of the reverse mortgage are comparable to a conventional FHA loan. When comparing costs side by side to a conventional loan the difference is the up-front FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium. The benefits of FHA insuring the loan include guaranteed funds, a lower interest and the loan being non-recourse. For a better understanding of costs and a comparison read “Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs – High or Mythical?”

To make sure you aren’t working with a predatory lender, check references, check to ensure they are a HUD approved lender, know they specialize in reverse mortgages, have experience, knowledge, and are willing to meet with you to review the details, before the application, during the application and at closing. You should review “Don’t Let Fear Keep You From A Reverse Mortgage But Know What To Look For In A Lender” to know the questions to ask when talking with an originator.

Our company is proud to receive comments such as “I am completely satisfied with all aspects of my reverse mortgage. From start to finish, it was handled very professionally. I never had a feeling that my questions and input were not of importance (thank you – I had many questions!!) Beth, you assured me that the procedure was on time and going smoothly, and that was a wonderful feeling! Thank you for being the kind of super advisor that makes you so special”

So don’t let the bad apple spoil the bushel of reverse mortgages for you. Get the facts, know what to look for in a lender, and explore the option to see if it might benefit you as it has benefitted hundreds of thousands of senior homeowners.

To get the details and facts straight, the media should read a couple of my other Blog articles: “The Media Needs Their Reverse Mortgage Facts!” “But Wait, There’s More… Reverse Mortgage Facts the Media Needs To Know” and “When You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know About Reverse Mortgages.”

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-8l

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 Answer Prayers

Posted on October 5, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

“I now have peace of mind.” “This really helps out a great deal and solves many problems.” “My friend is a changed man.” “You’re an angel.” “You’re sent from heaven.” “What a mission you do.” These are words I have heard from people who have a reverse mortgage.

Seniors may have many years behind them, but they still have many valuable years ahead of them with some important living to do. Yet they often find it difficult living on a fixed income. Sylvia wrote me, “As a senior citizen, I had been having some concerns with my finances. Being on a limited income made much needed household repairs and property tax payments very difficult to meet. I was going to have to make a choice soon about whether to continue to live in my house, or move in to an apartment. The costs of continuing to live in my home were getting beyond my means, but I wasn’t ready to leave the home that I had raised my children in.” She decided to use the equity in her house to make life easier and meet the financial obligations that she had.

A reverse mortgage is a loan that enables homeowners age 62 and older to receive cash out of their home (in the form of a monthly check, line of credit or lump sum of cash), with no monthly payments and no repayment due until the homeowner permanently leaves the home. As long as the homeowner is 62 or older and lives in their home with enough equity to pay off any current mortgages or liens, and the home meets HUD’s minimum property standards, they qualify for a reverse mortgage – there are no income or credit qualifications. Currently the only program is the FHA HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) which is insured by HUD.

People have lived in their homes for many years and have many memories there. They’re familiar with their surroundings and want to stay in their home. Moving into an apartment can be expensive and the money from their home sale will only pay rent for a certain number of years. The reverse mortgage helps seniors stay in their home, remain independent, and maintain or improve their lifestyle, and have the financial means to fulfill their goals and dreams. Ed, one reverse mortgage borrower, says, “The reverse mortgage is great. It gives us some elbow room.”

Those who do a reverse mortgage use the cash they receive for reasons ranging from paying for everyday living expenses to supplementing their current income. A reverse mortgage can eliminate current mortgage payments, provide cash to pay bills, fulfill dreams, meet goals, travel, or take on new hobbies. Some people want to make home repairs or afford to go out to eat with friends more often. Helping pay for grandchildren’s education, covering medical expenses, or paying long term care insurance premiums are other ways cash from a reverse mortgage is used.

Now with the interest rates so low, those who are relying on the interest from their CDs are suffering. People who were counting on their investments for their retirement are also struggling with their finances. More and more people turning to the reverse mortgage to supplement their income who thought they would be financially stable in their retirement years.

The cash received is considered tax-free and Social Security and Medicare benefits are not affected. It is possible to receive public benefits (Medical Assistance, food stamps, or county home health care) and still do a reverse mortgage. However, Social Security Administration, legal services, and/or tax consultant should be consulted for each particular situation.

Often children aren’t even aware that their parents are struggling to make ends meet at the end of the month. After they had closed on the reverse mortgage, one couple I know confided to their daughter that they used to go three days at the end of the month without food or even milk. Now they have the money to live comfortably and even take their children out to eat once in awhile.

Bernadette wrote me after closing on her reverse mortgage stating, “With joy and delight I have felt hope and even vision anew in knowing that this home belongs to me. It comes with a challenge for me to realize that I am accountable in using these funds to achieve goals otherwise not possible.”

The reverse mortgage answers prayers for many by helping them maintain their lifestyle, have security, independence, dignity, and control while they are still living. For me, it is a

ministry and rewarding to be able to assist seniors to stay in their home and have security, independence, dignity, and control.

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-7S

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 your opinion of reverse mortgages denying seniors?

Posted on September 28, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

As you are advising seniors do you advise them based on your opinion of reverse mortgages? Do you believe that reverse mortgages are expensive? Do you believe it’s foolish to do a reverse mortgage because of the “high” costs and a “better solution” would be sell? Do you believe it is more practical for a senior to move in with an adult child? Do you believe they should consider a conventional mortgage instead of a reverse mortgage? Or get some financial assistance from their child? Are you criticizing seniors for doing a reverse mortgage and not selling or finding financing from another resource?

While sometimes the cold hard financial facts may demonstrate a better solution than the reverse mortgage. However, have you considered what the senior’s desires are? What about their comfort and happiness? Do they really want to sell? Do they really want to live in senior housing? Would they really be comfortable living with a relative? Would they really be happy if they moved out of the home and community they are familiar with and comfortable in? And what impact would receiving financial assistance from a child have on the child’s financial situation? What is going to give the senior their security, independence, dignity, and control? Advising based on your opinions is denying seniors their comfort and happiness as well as their control and choice.

Being familiar with their surroundings, their community, having the bank and grocery store down the street may give comfort to a senior. The neighbor may help with the yard work, watching out for them, bringing them a meal once in awhile. Their choice may be to stay in their home because that is what brings them comfort and makes them happy. They may feel more secure living in their familiar surroundings.

Moving in with an adult child can mean a loss of independence, dignity, and control for a senior. There could be additional stress and more of a financial burden on the child.

Having a child provide financial assistance through just providing funds or a sale lease back could have a negative impact on both the senior and the child. The senior will have lost some of their independence and dignity by depending on their child. The child’s situation may change and they may not be able to afford the financial assistance in the future. If it’s a sale lease back situation, the child may need to sell to meet their own financial circumstances which could displace the senior. Which would mean the senior’s security would be at stake.

I know a woman who sold her home to her daughter and son-in-law with the agreement that she could continue to live there. When the children moved in to the home that had been hers for years the daughter and her husband took over the main living area and she had to move her belongings to the basement and a different bedroom. They started redoing the yard, not necessarily a bad thing but since they were now the owners they were making changes she was not comfortable with. Additionally they have parties every weekend which disturbs her peace and quite. Unfortunately she is no longer comfortable and happy living in “her” home. This in the long run is affecting her peace of mind and her health. She no longer has her independence, dignity or control of her living situation. And her security could be in jeopardy if the children decide they want the house to them selves and require her to move out.

A reverse mortgage helps seniors with their many financial needs including paying off current mortgage payments, repairing or modifying the home, covering their basic month to month living expenses, paying for home health care or medical expenses.

Before you base your advice on your opinion of reverse mortgages, know the facts: “When You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know About Reverse Mortgages” and some of my other Blog posts will help you with this. Read “Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs – High or Mythical?” to see that reverse mortgage costs compare to conventional mortgage costs. “I Want To Stay In My Home – Don’t Tell Me To Sell!” will help you understand that selling and moving is not less expensive and may have negative consequences in the future. And to get a better understanding on how the reverse mortgage provides, security, independence, dignity and control read, “Know A Senior Who Wants Security, Independence, Dignity, And Control? A Reverse Mortgage May Be The Answer.”

While you may believe the best solution would be for a senior to sell, move in with a relative, or do a conventional mortgage, consider what will provide comfort and happiness for the senior as well as what will meet their desires. Don’t let your opinion of reverse mortgages deny seniors. It’s their personal choice on how and where they choose to live.

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.

Know a Senior Who Wants Security, Independence, Dignity, and Control? A Reverse Mortgage May Be The Answer!

Posted on September 21, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

A Reverse Mortgage Helps Their Lifestyle

When Andrew and Harriet, both in their 70’s, went to their bank to inquire about refinancing their current loan, their banker suggested a reverse mortgage and referred them to us at Reverse Mortgages SIDAC. They needed some additional funds for home repairs including a new energy efficient furnace. Anticipating future medical expenses, they liked the idea that with the reverse mortgage they could get money for their immediate needs, eliminate their mortgage payment, and still have funds for their future needs by having a line of credit.

They decided to do a reverse mortgage with the understanding that they would still own their home (as they do with their current mortgage), monthly mortgage payments aren’t required, and the interest rate is lower than they could qualify for on a regular loan (adjustable rate currently under 4%). They understand they continue to be responsible for their taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintenance of the property and don’t have to repay the loan until the home is no longer their primary residence. They liked the idea that even if one of them goes into the nursing home, the other one can stay in the home. Additionally, it was appealing that the funds are tax-free*, Social Security and Medicare are not affected and Medical Assistance and other public benefits can still be received.

A mortgage with special terms for homeowners 62 and older, a reverse mortgage has no income or credit score qualifications** (See below for Financial Assessment requirement as of April 2015.) and a low interest rate, which offers many advantages for senior homeowners. Allowing access to cash from the equity of the home to use now and pay back when the home is no longer the primary residence of borrower(s), when the home is sold any remaining equity goes to the borrower or their heirs. With the reverse mortgage, if the loan balance is higher than the home can be sold for there is no personal liability to borrowers or their heirs as long as the borrower or estate are not retaining ownership.

“When a friend told me she was doing a reverse mortgage I thought, that sounds really good. I thought, if I do a reverse mortgage, I could do some things to my home, and maybe take a vacation. After everything was explained to me and my children in detail and in words I could understand I did a reverse mortgage. I now am getting new windows and siding and am going on vacation with my daughter,” said Judy in St. Paul.

Happy to Repay Son-In-Law from Reverse Mortgage

A few years ago Patricia had borrowed money from her son-in-law, Brad, to pay off a loan. Then Brad needed the money back for his own purposes. After consulting her family and an attorney, she did the reverse mortgage. She told us she was greatly relieved and the pressure was off her now that she no longer owed Brad money and wasn’t dependent on him. She added as a result of consulting the attorney, “Other good benefits are that I tended to my will being made, my health directives done, and a trust fund set up. All that is done now and I’m prepared for the future.”

The factors used to determine how much is loaned to borrowers include the home value or FHA lending limit ($625,500 through the end of 2009), the age of the borrower (the older one is the more funds they can receive), and an Expected Interest Rate. If one doesn’t have a mortgage on their home they benefit from having more funds available to them. Cash flow will improve when the current mortgage payment is eliminated if one does have a current mortgage on their home.

Even though home values may be lower at this time, it is still a good time to do a reverse mortgage because the interest rates are so low. When the home values go back up, it will mean there could be additional equity in the home. If one waits to do the reverse mortgage until home values go up, the interest may be higher and consequently less funds available.

As with a conventional loan, there are traditional closing costs including an origination fee, appraisal, title fees, title insurance and recording fees. With the FHA insured, Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) borrowers pay a mortgage insurance premium. Because the fees are up-front, they are often perceived as high. However, in the big picture the reverse mortgage may cost less because of the much lower interest rates historically available to borrowers with the adjustable rate.

“It was a blessing when we heard of reverse mortgages. We were behind in the property taxes and mortgage payments and faced foreclosure. We were really in a mess. The reverse mortgage cleared it all up and has lifted a weight from us that we can live in the house and not worry,” said Gwen and Robert.

A reverse mortgage has allowed thousands of Minnesota seniors to remain in their home with security, independence, dignity and control even during trying times. And if you know a senior who wants to sit back and relax with security, independence, dignity, and control, a reverse mortgage may be their answer.

*consult tax advisor who is familiar with reverse mortgages

**In April 2015 a Financial Assessment was implemented to determine borrower’s ability and willingness to pay property taxes and insurance into the future. This safeguard help make the reverse mortgage more sustainable so borrowers can remain in their home.

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.

Who Are We To Judge How Reverse Mortgage Funds Should Be Used?

Posted on September 13, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

The media and politicians are stating reverse mortgage funds shouldn’t be used for pleasure items such as vacations, giving to children, buying a car, boat or RV. Yes, if a borrower uses their funds now for pleasure items, give money to their children or grandchildren, or even on bills or other expenses, there is a chance they won’t have funds at a later date. Seniors, as anyone, should use their funds wisely. But who are ‘we’ (media, politicians, lenders, counselors, attorneys, public, etc.) to judge and make decisions on how one’s funds should be used? Do you want someone else making decisions for you? Do you want the media, politicians, your friends, a lender or counselor to tell you that you can’t take a dream vacation because you may not have funds for your medical bills or housing at a future date?

Reverse Mortgage Allowed Travel to Florida

Reverse Mortgage Allowed Escape from Cold MN Winter & Travel to Florida

Larry and Lori did a reverse mortgage so they could continue to travel to Florida every winter. The reverse mortgage allowed them to continue their lifestyle of escaping the cold Minnesota winters and to visit family in Florida. Who are ‘we’ to determine whether this was right or not? When their health started failing, they could no longer make the trips however the reverse mortgage gave them those extra years of travel and the security to be able to do so.

Two days after closing her reverse mortgage, Jane was on a flight to England to fulfill her dream of seeing a play that was ending the weekend after the closing. The reverse mortgage made that dream a reality. Were we to take control and choice away from her and say this was the wrong use of reverse mortgage funds “just because” in future years she may need funds for “something” else? Were ‘we’ to take that dream away even if she might never be short funds for who knows what in the future?

We talk about creating a “bucket list” – the things we want to do before we die. After working for years, raising families, serving their country why can’t a senior use their reverse mortgage funds to check an item or items off their “bucket list” while they are still healthy and able to fulfill their dream? Seniors shouldn’t be treated like children, as one who can’t make their own decisions. Living on this earth for many years does not mean one can’t make their own decisions. If for some reason they cannot, then they should have a conservator appointed.

After his wife died, Bob did the reverse mortgage to replace the additional income lost from her Social Security. Catching up on bills, with peace of mind of having extra cash flow each month by receiving monthly payments, he was so excited that he could also take a dream vacation and go to Yellowstone. Taking the trip with his nephew last summer, months later he is still glowing that he was able to fulfill his dream. Was this a “wrong” decision on his part? Were we supposed to kill his dream?

Carl was in need of a new car. Because he didn’t want to make car payments, he did the reverse mortgage to meet this need of purchasing a new car without having a monthly payment. He’s still able to drive, should ‘we’ deny him his dignity and independence and say he shouldn’t purchase this car just because he is older and may have a need of funds for who knows what in the future?

If YOU, at age 30, 40, or 50, take a vacation today, are you aware that you may not have funds for your mortgage payment (or rent if you’re a renter) or living expenses, medical bills, etc. at some future date? What if you take a vacation today and next month you are in a car accident and left disabled or diagnosed with cancer and can’t work, make your mortgage or rent payment, and pay your bills? Since this is a possibility for any one of us, do you not take that vacation just because this could happen to you? We all need to act responsibly but if we live totally as if the worse is going to happen to us no one would “live” life today – we would just live in a cocoon not really living.

If you, at age 30, 40 or 50, were forced to pay off your mortgage how much money would you have for “life” – pay for food, clothes; daily needs such as soap, shampoo, hair cuts; utilities; taxes; maintain your home; automobile, gas and auto insurance; health insurance and medical expenses; go out to eat; take your vacation, etc.? Since everyone who has a mortgage is using the equity of their home for these purposes, I bet you would have a very different lifestyle if you weren’t using the equity in your home to maintain your lifestyle – whether a senior or you or me. The media and politicians need to stop judging the decisions seniors make on how they use the equity in their home, just because they are a senior doesn’t mean they can’t make their own decisions or mean they need to live in that cocoon either.

Reverse Mortgage made it possible to attend family weddings

Bonnie did a reverse mortgage to pay off her forward mortgage and improve her cash flow. Years after the closing of her loan, Bonnie wrote, “A reverse mortgage has brought me bountiful solutions to resolving financial issues. Its benefits enabled me to achieve the means to better enjoy living in my own home. The equity available was spent in several areas for home improvement. Herewith also were personal challenges, as a pledge to my church fulfilled and travel to family weddings and reunions assured.

“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. Thus a respect for yourself increases.”

Are you going to say these personal uses of her reverse mortgage funds were wrong? Who are you or I to judge? I certainly don’t want someone to tell me how to use the funds from my mortgage. And I don’t want to tell a senior that they shouldn’t use their reverse mortgage funds to fulfill their dreams just because someone else doesn’t use their funds wisely or because they may not have funds for who knows what in the future.

With all of this said, I do believe it is important one should plan for what may happen in the future and everyone should use their funds wisely. An elder law attorney, financial advisor, and CPA educated in senior issues and reverse mortgages* can help seniors plan and think through their situations to help them make the best decisions for their circumstances. Note, I said help, not make the decisions for them. In the end, it should be the individual senior’s decision on what they choose to do with their reverse mortgage (or any) funds.

*They need to be educated with the facts from a reverse mortgage expert, not the media, politicians, word-of-mouth, etc. or they could be guiding the senior to make bad decisions.

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.

It is NOT Reverse Mortgage Fraud When…

Posted on September 4, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

You may have seen some headlines about reverse mortgage fraud. But I want to clarify that what is often being called reverse mortgage fraud is not really reverse mortgage fraud.

It is NOT reverse mortgage fraud when a senior who has a reverse mortgage and has a child or grandchild who scams their parent of money. It is theft, financial exploitation, and abuse by the child or grandchild! Children and grandchildren also steal, financially exploit and/or abuse seniors who don’t have a reverse mortgage.

It is NOT reverse mortgage fraud if a Power of Attorney misuses the funds from a senior’s reverse mortgage. It is financial exploitation and abuse by the Power of Attorney, not of, or because of, the reverse mortgage.

It is NOT reverse mortgage fraud when a title company’s closer doesn’t follow the regulations (as the story in the recent Wall Street Journal reported) and they take the money the lender sent to pay off a borrower’s current liens. It is theft and fraud by a title company’s closer and can, and has, happened with conventional loans.

As unfortunate as these situations are, they are NOT reverse mortgage fraud and the media should not call it such.

Let’s look at an analogy: If a store selling TV’s is robbed because the thief was enticed and wanted the TV it is the person who did the stealing that committed the crime, not the TV manufacturer. In this scenario the store represents the senior, both are victims. The money or reverse mortgage funds are represented by the TV. And the lender, provider of the reverse mortgage funds is represented by the TV manufacturer and provider of the merchandise.

So this is not fraud by the TV manufacture just because the thief stole the manufacturer’s TV. Nor is it reverse mortgage fraud just because the reverse mortgage provided the funds for someone to steal from or abuse a senior.

Do you we see the media publishing articles that TV manufactures committed fraud when one of their TV’s was stolen? Then why does the media and politicians accuse reverse mortgage lenders of fraud when someone else is committing the crime? Why are the words reverse mortgage used in the same sentence as fraud in these types of circumstances?

For the facts the media should know read my previous posts:

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.

But Wait, There’s More… Reverse Mortgage Facts The Media Needs To Know

Posted on August 29, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

With the fear factor and incorrect information the media is publishing, seniors don’t even want to include a reverse mortgage with other options they are considering to determine which would be the best for their situation. Unfortunately they just assume the reverse mortgage shouldn’t be done and that any other option would be a better decision. Maybe another option would be best, maybe not. The media needs to stop throwing the baby out with the bathwater and let the decision be based on the facts of the reverse mortgage, not on a fear factor.

The media and politicians need to stop assuming that a conventional mortgage or HELOC is available to seniors. Generally seniors don’t qualify for these loans. And even if they do, they too have costs similar to the reverse mortgage, a higher interest rate than the reverse mortgage, and risks to the homeowner and the lender when “life happens” and payments can’t be made. Even if they do qualify today, what happens in six months, a year, two years or five years when they can’t make the payment? Doing the reverse mortgage instead of a conventional mortgage or HELOC is generally a better option for seniors. Read “Is Waiting To Do A Reverse Mortgage The Best Decision?”

Reverse mortgages are not riskier or more complex than any other financial decision made by seniors, or anyone else for that matter. In fact, NOT getting a reverse mortgage could be riskier for a senior.

Homeownership offers more benefits than renting. One owns the home, and can benefit from the equity. If renting, one has the expense of monthly payments and covering utilities (whether included in the rent or separate) and insurance. If a senior does the reverse mortgage, payments are not required which improves their cash flow (no mortgage or rent payments). The amount of their utilities, taxes, insurance and maintenance of their home is probably less than monthly rent of another property and they are at the mercy of future escalating rental rates. If they can’t afford the rent payments where are they going to live? On subsidized housing? The reverse mortgage allows them to stay in the home without monthly payments and allows them control and choices of their living conditions.

Reverse mortgage borrowers are, however, still responsible for paying their taxes, insurance, and maintaining the home as they would be under any circumstances. If they don’t pay taxes the county can foreclose, if they don’t have insurance and there is a fire or other destruction to the home, they won’t have a home, if they don’t maintain the home and it becomes really run down the city may fine and/or evict them whether or not they have a reverse mortgage. If they are renting and can’t pay the rent they would be evicted.

Another common statement is the reverse mortgage has high closing costs – compared to what? What other financial option is available that offers seniors the same benefits?

It shouldn’t be considered a loan of last resort. As Mary, one of my borrowers who used the loan in order to retire stated, “When you retire is IS the last resort – you no longer have that income coming in.” So what do you consider a last resort?

That reverse mortgages could be the “next sub-prime” mortgage is another fear the media and politicians are forcing on all of us with no substantial or viable comparisons. Don’t let this keep you from a reverse mortgage, read my article, “Don’t Let Fear Keep You From A Reverse Mortgage But Know What To Look For In A Lender.”

The reverse mortgage has protections unlike any other loan or financial option. Borrowers are required to go through third party HUD approved counseling which reviews the program, costs, positives and negatives, risks, and other options that may be available for them. HUD is implementing a new counseling protocol for added protections.

Enjoying Life with Their Reverse Mortgage

Let’s review the facts of some benefits a reverse mortgage provides:

The title stays in the borrower’s name same as with any mortgage. The borrower owns the home, no one else does.
The borrower may be able to stay in their home as long as it’s their primary residence or until their 150^th birthday.
Lower interest rates than other loans – historically the reverse mortgage interest rates have been lower than conventional loans, lines of credit and credit cards.
A borrower won’t lose their home because of a reverse mortgage – they don’t have to make monthly payments. They are however, as with any loan, responsible for taxes, insurance and maintaining the property and abiding by the terms of the loan agreement.
The reverse mortgage funds are tax-free (although if proceeds are used for certain purposes taxes may apply – consult with a tax advisor).
The proceeds are not considered income so Social Security and Medicare are not impacted and one can receive Medicaid.
The HECM is government insured and guaranteed to be available for borrowers. (Currently proprietary reverse mortgages are not available or are limited by county and city offerings.)
Borrowers or their heirs get to keep any remaining equity after the loan is paid off.
Allows access to more funds without paying additional closing costs – there is a growth rate with the line of credit and monthly payment options.
There are no out of pocket costs, income or credit qualifications for the reverse mortgage.
There are no prepayment penalties.
Seniors can have money for covering their everyday living expenses, making home repairs, covering medical expenses, paying for long term care, paying taxes and debts, paying off their current mortgage to improve their cash flow, buy a new car, taking a desired vacation or visiting children who live out of town.
The reverse mortgage has helped many seniors save their home from foreclosure.
The reverse mortgage gives seniors their security, independence, dignity and control.

Ed wrote, “Our reverse mortgage is great. Gives us some elbow room. Special thanks to you.” Now these are the facts the media should be using!

The Media Needs The Reverse Mortgage Facts!

Posted on August 26, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

The media paints a negative picture of reverse mortgages by using incorrect or misleading information. It’s unfortunate and frustrating from the standpoint that this scares people from getting the facts and making a decision based on the true facts. A recent example of this is the September issue of Consumer Reports and TV interviews based off the Consumer Reports article.

Consumer Reports starts out with a story about Mr. Minor who is facing losing his home after his wife passed away, implying it was because of a reverse mortgage. As you read later in the article, Mr. Minor was not 62 when a reverse mortgage was done on the home with his wife who was over 62 as the borrower. He was under the impression that his name could be added on the title when he turned 62.

The fact is that when a couple is doing a reverse mortgage with a non-borrowing spouse (Mr. Minor in this case because he wasn’t 62 at the time of the origination of the reverse mortgage), lenders require the non-borrowing spouse sign documents stating they are aware they may lose the home when the older spouse is no longer in the home as their primary residence. This would also be covered with the required counseling and then again at closing. It is unfortunate that Mr. Minor had a wrong impression or may have been told incorrect information from a loan officer. Being told this information is a very rare circumstance – so the loan officer should be addressed, not the whole reverse mortgage industry blasted with negative media.

Mr. Minor says he was misled that the reverse mortgage was a good way to pay his wife’s medical bills. So if they didn’t do the reverse mortgage, how would they have paid the medical bills? Obviously the funds they received did benefit them to pay those medical expenses.

This article states that Mr. Minor owes more than the home value implying that the reverse mortgage caused this. What is not pointed out here is the fact that Mr. and Mrs. Minor would have used those funds during the term of the loan. If funds aren’t used, they are not part of the loan balance that has to be repaid, they remain equity in the home. Whether to pay medical bills, medications, home care, daily living expenses or used to pay off a current mortgage (eliminating the mortgage payments so they had those funds for other uses), the majority of the loan balance was used by them. The rest of the loan balance would have been for interest, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP), and servicing fees. Any loan has interest and servicing fees, whether a home loan, auto loan, bank line of credit, or even credit cards. Have you added up what you paid in interest expense over the term of your loan(s)? Yes, you are making payments so the debt is reduced over time but you have paid the interest. And with the reverse mortgage payments aren’t generally made so loan the balance increases to be paid when the home is no longer the borrower’s primary residence.

Another fact that is often not stated or misstated is that the reverse mortgage is non-recourse. This means there is no personal liability to the borrower or the estate if the loan is being paid off and not kept by the borrower or the estate. So even if the loan balance is $200,000 and the home now can only be sold for $130,000, the lender is paid the $130,000 and the FHA Mortgage Insurance covers the difference.

Often called complicated, the reverse mortgage is a mortgage and while different than a conventional mortgage, they are not any more complicated than any other loan. Seniors take out conventional loans and don’t necessarily understand all the terms or risks of these. One risk on a conventional loan is that they may not be able to make the mortgage payment at a future date when “life happens.” Borrowers may then face foreclosure. Whereas the reverse mortgage helps seniors save their home from foreclosure. There are many loan documents to help disclose all the details. Additionally borrowers are required to receive counseling from a third-party to explain the loan details, this isn’t required with any other type of loan for seniors. I have consistently been told that my book, “Understanding Reverse Mortgages,” and my education and explanations make it easy to understand.

Other misleading or misconstrued statements include the reverse mortgage is not right if the children want to keep the home. While the loan will need to be repaid for the children to keep the home, they may still keep the home. Let me tell you about a borrower who needed new glasses, teeth, clothes, and some home repairs. She loved going to plays yet couldn’t even afford the local community plays. She decided the reverse mortgage would help her afford her needs and enjoy her life.

After we had reviewed all the facts, positives and negatives, and she had completed the application, she called and said she wanted to stop the process because her son didn’t want her to do the reverse mortgage. When I asked why, she said he wants to keep the house after she’s gone. Upon further questioning she said it was so he could have the house and rent it out after she was gone.

My response was to ask, “So you’re going to do without your glasses, teeth, clothes, home repairs, affording the little things you enjoy so your son can make money after you are gone?” I went on to ask, “Is he going to cover all these expenses of things you need now?” Of course the answer to this question was, “No, he can’t afford to.” I explained that he could still have the house after she was gone, he would need to pay off the mortgage balance, maybe by getting a new mortgage but then he could rent it out and make money on it that way.

Celebrating her reverse mortgage

She went ahead and did the reverse mortgage. I have received a call from her a couple times a year since she closed her loan 4 years ago. She is pleased that she did the reverse mortgage and the difference it’s made in her life. And when she passes away or is no longer in the home, her son has the option to pay off the mortgage balance and keep the home. In the mean time she’s had the use of funds to meet her needs and make her life enjoyable.

There is a statement that taxpayers are making up the difference on default loans or will need to in the future. The fact is that borrowers pay a FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium to cover any defaults. Unfortunately the MIP was put in the general fund and now there is a risk that there may not be enough funds for the current fiscal year. Plenty of borrower paid MIP dollars have been paid into FHA over the years but unfortunately the federal government doesn’t hold these funds in escrow type accounts as they use these funds for other general HUD programs. If these funds had been accumulated and reserved for the HECM, this would be a non-issue in the current year. This issue is brought on by the way the government manages these funds.

Other misrepresented statements are about closing costs being high. Please see my post “Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs – High or Mythical?” for the facts on this.

Regarding the media’s statements that the reverse mortgage should be a last resort read “AARP Has It Wrong About Reverse Mortgages” and “Reverse Mortgages Help Celebrate Independence.”

The media needs to provide the facts, not use scare tactics. When borrowers have the facts, the decision to do the reverse mortgage can be made intelligently. And, as with the hundreds of thousands satisfied reverse mortgage borrowers, those deciding to do the reverse mortgage based on the facts will find their life is much better, living with security, independence, dignity and control and a peace of mind.

In fact, today I received a call from a borrower who said, “I could not pay my bills without my reverse mortgage. I’m glad I did it to maintain my lifestyle.”

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 Waiting To Do A Reverse Mortgage The Best Decision?

Posted on August 5, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Mary, A Happy Minnesota Reverse Mortgage Borrower

Let me introduce you to, Mary, a Minnesota Reverse Mortgage borrower whose home value, as most homes, had decreased over the last few years. While she didn’t have any mortgages to pay off and didn’t have immediate needs for the funds she decided to do a reverse mortgage now instead of waiting. Her decision was based on the fact that if she waited her home value may continue to decrease whereas if she did the loan now she would have the funds in the line of credit for future use and they would grow so more funds would be available when she needs them. Additionally if she waited the Expected Interest Rate (used to determine how much can be loaned) may be higher making less funds available to her to her in the future.

Over the last few months we have talked with seniors whom we originally talked with 2, 3 or 4+ years go and had educated them about the reverse mortgage option. At that time they decided to wait and not do a reverse mortgage. Some even did a conventional mortgage or what we in the industry call a “forward” mortgage. Now “life has happened” and they decide they now want to do the reverse mortgage. Unfortunately with many of these seniors we have to tell them the sad news that less funds are available now and in some cases there aren’t enough proceeds to pay off their current mortgage, sometimes they are short $20, 000, $30,000 or more. This is due to decreased home values and changes in the Expected Interest Rate, the interest rated used to determine how much can be loaned. We are finding this can also be the case for even those we talked with just 6 months ago.

Let’s compare doing a reverse mortgage now to waiting 5 years before doing your reverse mortgage.

To determine how much is loaned with a reverse mortgage we use your age, your home value, and Expected Interest Rate. With FHA Reverse Mortgages the Expected Interest Rate is calculated weekly by the Federal Government and is used to determine initial funds available. The Expected Interest Rate is currently based on the LIBOR SWAP, as this is considered a long term projection of future interest rates. As the Expected Interest Rate changes to a higher rate, in the future less initial funds could be available to borrowers.

While home values are a little lower right now home values will most likely rise in the future. It is also likely the Expected Interest Rate will go up. This means that even with the future increased home value, the amount available on the reverse mortgage could be the same or less if you wait to do a reverse mortgage. For example:

	TODAY	5 Years from now	Initial Interest Rate is currently below 4%
AGE	70	75
HOME VALUE	$200,000	$225,000
*Based on Expected Rate of	7.14	8.14
AVAILABLE (Approximate net after fees)	$92,710	$88,199
DIFFERENCE	$4,511
These are all estimates. Different assumptions would result in different numbers. Interest rates are based on rates of 8/4/09.

Keep in mind, funds left in a Line of Credit grow. So if you have $92,710 in your line of credit today, in the future you could have more funds available to you. Here’s an example:

Line of Credit Growth*	No Draws	Draw $4,000 each year
Today	$92,710	$92,710
Year 1 Balance	$96,515	$92,515
Year 2 Balance	$100,476	$92,312
Year 3 Balance	$104,600	$92,101
Year 4 Balance	$108,893	$91,881
Year 5 Balance	$113,362	$91,662
*Growth Rate based on Assumption of Expected Interest Rate of 3.529% in this example. Actual Line of Credit Grows based on current interest rate plus .5%.

Consider having security knowing you readily have funds available in your Line of Credit without paying additional closing fees in the future. When you use the funds each year you will be taking advantage of having the money you need during your retirement years and the benefit of improved financial health.

As Jerry stated, “The Reverse Mortgage enables us to live in our home without mortgage payments. Line of credit will grow for our future needs. The whole package is a win-win for my wife and me.”

Let’s look at a scenario if you are currently making payments on a mortgage, lien, or bank line of credit. There is still an advantage to doing the reverse mortgage now. As an example, if you owe $75,000 and are paying 7% interest:

Interest Expense for next year on your current loan	$5,422
Interest Expense based on reverse mortgage rate of 4% (4% is the approximate current interest rate on the adjustable rate program) Plus .5% for FHA Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)	$3,446
Interest Expense based on reverse mortgage fixed rate of 5.56% Plus .5% for FHA Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)	$4,673

In addition to lower interest with a reverse mortgage, eliminating your monthly payment will improve your cash flow. While the loan balance will rise because you are not making payments, the reverse mortgage is non-recourse which means there is no personal liability to you or your estate if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for if you or your estate are not retaining ownership.

My borrower, Mary was happy with her decision to do her reverse mortgage sooner than later because she now has security knowing she has funds available for her needs, independence to live on her own without relying on others for financial support, she’s maintained her dignity of being able to pay her own bills, and continues having control of her life and the ability to make her own choices.

Waiting to do the reverse mortgage may not be the best decision. Doing a reverse mortgage now may be more beneficial. Are you ready to live with more now?

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.

When you don’t know what you don’t know about reverse mortgages

Posted on July 17, 2009 by Beth Paterson, CRMP

Are you basing your opinion of reverse mortgages on what you and others don’t know? People say they’ve heard a lot of negatives about reverse mortgages or that they should stay away from them. When I ask what they’ve heard or why they were told to stay away from them, I get the answer, “I don’t know, I was just told to stay away from them.” Or they really don’t know much about them yet they are still negative about them. After I spend time educating them on the facts of reverse mortgages the response becomes much different: “Wow, this could be a life saver for me.” Or “That sounds wonderful.” And my clients who have their reverse mortgage in place are thrilled and pleased on how it’s changed their lives for the better – giving them security, independence, dignity, and control.

So my question to you is do you know the facts about reverse mortgages or are you basing your opinion about reverse mortgages by listening to the negatives and incorrect statements from those who don’t have the real details? If you were having health problems, would you listen to a plumber about what you should do about your health or would you go to a doctor who specialists in the area of need for the facts? The reverse mortgage is the same, get your facts from a reverse mortgage expert, not the media, politicians, a real estate agent, your neighbor, friend or anyone else who isn’t a specialist in reverse mortgages and can provide the true facts.

The media often has someone they call an expert from the financial or real estate industries talk about reverse mortgages as if they know what they are talking about. However, those of us specializing in reverse mortgages find a lot of incorrect and misleading statements by these so called experts. They too don’t know what they don’t know because they don’t consult with the true experts in the industry before giving information. Politicians who are trying to protect seniors haven’t learned the real facts about reverse mortgages so they too are giving advice and/or a fear factor based on what they don’t know. If they would talk with the experts they may do a better job of providing the facts versus spreading myths.

As a senior advocate and an expert who has specialized in reveres mortgages for 10 years, let me help you get some of the real facts. Do you know…

A reveres mortgage is a mortgage with special terms for senior homeowners 62 and older.
You own the home, no one else does.
You may be able to stay in your home as long as it’s your primary residence or until your 150^th birthday. (You are responsible for paying taxes, insurance, and maintaining the property and abiding by the terms of the loan agreement.)
You won’t lose your home because of a reverse mortgage – you don’t have to make monthly payments.
Tax-free money* is government insured and guaranteed to be there for you. (*consult tax advisor – but make sure they know the facts about reverse mortgages)
You or your heirs get to keep any remaining equity after the loan is paid off.
There is no personal liability to you or your estate when repaying the loan and you or your estate are not retaining ownership.
There are no out of pocket costs, income or credit qualifications for the loan.
- Closing costs typically become part of the loan balance.
- A credit report is pulled to check for any federal leans or debts that would be required to be paid – not to check your credit score.
You can’t access 100% of your home value at the time of your closing – the amount available is based on your age, you home value or FHA lending limit (currently $625,500), and an Expected Interest Rate.
The funds may be received in a line of credit, lump sum, monthly payments or a combination of these.
- Line of credit grows
- Monthly payments may be received as tenure payments (for life as long as the home is your primary residence) or structured to fit your needs.
Historically the interest rate is lower than conventional loans.
Closing costs are comparable to conventional loans, in the big picture they are not higher – see my post: “Reveres Mortgage Closing Costs – High or Mythical”
The majority of the loans are FHA insured (proprietary products aren’t currently offered in Minnesota).
There is no magic number for how long you should live in your home – it all depends on your individual circumstances. However the longer you stay in your home the less expensive it becomes because the closing costs get spread out over a longer period of time (same for conventional mortgages).

While a reverse mortgage isn’t right for everyone, every one should at least know the real facts to determine if a reverse mortgage is right for their situation. Don’t go the plumber for your health problems. And don’t go to the media, politicians, a real estate agent, your neighbor or anyone else who doesn’t specialize in reverse mortgages for you to make an educated decision about reverse mortgages — learn the facts from a true reverse mortgage expert.

Retired woman enjoying the security, independence, dignity, and control of her reverse mortgage

Having the facts my borrowers are thrilled with their reverse mortgage. I’ve been told, “You’re an angel.” “You gave me my life back.” And as Sylvia, wrote: “As a senior citizen, I had been having some concerns with my finances. Being on a limited income made much needed household repairs and property tax payments very difficult to meet. I was going to have to make a choice soon about whether to continue to live in my house, or move on to an apartment. The costs of continuing to live in my home were getting beyond my means, but I wasn’t ready to leave the home that I had raised my children in. I decided to use the equity in my house to make life easier and meet the financial obligations that I had. Beth Paterson was my representative. She was so easy to talk to and walked me slowly through the entire process. She was always there to answer any questions that I had, and continues to even long after the closing! It was a wonderful experience.”

Base your decisions on what you know from a reverse mortgage expert, not what you or others don’t know.

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

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