Comparing Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs To A Conventional Mortgage – You’ll Be Surprised They Are Not That Different

Compare Closing Costs for Refinancing Your Home - A Reverse or Conventional MortgageIt seems like every article, report or someone you talk with states the reverse mortgage  closing costs are high.  Have you looked at closing costs on a conventional home mortgage?

As with a conventional home mortgage (called a “forward” by HUD), the closing costs for reverse mortgages may vary depending on the home value and the complexity of the loan.  Let’s compare the costs side-by-side for a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage  or HECM and a conventional/forward mortgage.

The third party and recording fees are standard for any loan.  However, with the reverse mortgage HUD regulates the fees and requires that only the actual cost may be charged to the borrower, they do not allow mark ups such as processing or servicing fees.  Look at an estimated comparison based on a Minnesota home valued at $200,000:

Third Party Fees Reverse FHA Forward Forward FHA
Appraisal $450 $400 $450
Credit Report $20 $20 $20
Flood Certification $16.50 $16.50 $16.50
Courier Fee* $25 $55 $25
Escrow, Settlement, or Closing $250 $250 $250
Abstract or Title Search $100 $100 $100
Title Exam $100 $100 $100
Document Preparation $100 $100 $100
Title Insurance $475 $475 $475
Endorsements $100 $100
Recording Fees $92 $46 $92
County/Mortgage Registration Tax $323 $480 $480
Plat Drawing $60 $60 $60
Name Search $30 $30 $30
Special Assessment Search $30 $30 $30
Counseling Fee $125 N/A N/A
TOTAL THIRD PARTY FEES $2,196.50 $2,262.50** $2,328.50

* Courier Fee is for sending a payoff on a current mortgage to the mortgage holder.

** These fees do not include all mark ups/processing fees so these may be higher when mark ups/processing fees are included.

Now let’s compare the Lender Fees:

FHA’s Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) is paid directly to FHA.  With the FHA HECM Standard this is 2% of the home value and 2 1/4% for a forward.  The FHA HECM Saver has a reduced MIP.  The advantages with FHA insuring the reverse mortgage include:

  • Guaranteeing the funds are available for you.
  • Guaranteeing the lender against default or shortfalls which means the interest rates are lower (currently under 3% on the HECM Standard Adjustable Rate) compared to other mortgages.
  • Providing a line of credit growth rate (available only with reverse mortgages).
  • Ensuring as a reverse mortgage it is a non-recourse (no personal liability) loan.

The origination fee is what the originating lender receives to cover the loan officer’s salary, overhead to run the business, i.e. staff salaries, administration costs, computers, electricity, office supplies, marketing expense, gas mileage, health insurance of employees, etc..  The origination fee also includes the processing and underwriting costs which are generally separate and charged to the borrower on forward loans.  HUD regulates the reverse mortgage origination fee to be 2% of the 1st $200,000; 1% thereafter with a cap of $6,000.  With a minimum of $2,500.

The reverse mortgage fees are based on the full home value because over time borrowers can access more than the home value at the time of origination.

An estimate based on a $200,000 home value:

LENDER FEES REVERSE FHA FORWARD FORWARD FHA
Origination/Points $4,000 $2,000* $2,000*
MIP $4,000 $0 $3.500
Underwriting/Processing $0 $700 $700
SUBTOTAL LENDER FEES $8,000 $2,700 $6,200
Backend fee** $0 $2,000 $2,000
TOTAL LENDER FEES $8,000 $4,700 $8,200
Prepaid Interest*** N/A ++ ++

*Typical points on Forward loans are 0-4%; this example is based on $100,000 loan at 2% points.
** Forward loans often have a 1% back-end fee.
*** Number of points are directly related to interest rate charged; the more points paid the lower the interest rate; the lower points paid, the higher interest rate.

TOTAL LOAN FEES REVERSE FHA FORWARD FORWARD FHA
$10,196.5 $6,952.50 $10,528.50

Note:  THE DIFFERENCE IS BASICALLY THE FHA MORTGAGE PREMIUM!  Refer to above comments on the benefits of FHA insuring the loan.

Because the majority of conventional loans being done now are FHA insured, the reverse mortgage is actually less expensive.

The fees associated with the reverse mortgage are fully financed as part of the loan with no out of pocket expenses other than the FHA appraisal.  (As of 2010 Appraisal Management Companies must be used to order and process the appraisal.  This fee is required to be paid for by borrower up front or “out of pocket.”)  All of the fees must be disclosed on the Good Faith Estimate (GFE).

Keep in mind that there has to be a cost involved because everyone in the transaction needs to be paid for there services.  If the costs on a mortgage aren’t paid up-front then they’ll be paid over time with a higher interest.

When considering whether to do a forward mortgage or a reverse mortgage you must consider if you can even qualify for a forward mortgage; then if you can make the payments over time.  For example, what happens if “life happens,” could you continue making those payments or would you be facing foreclosure?

You also need to consider that if you do a forward mortgage now (if you even qualify), you’ll be paying the closings costs on that loan and then when you need more funds in the future and you refinance you’ll be paying the closings costs again.  These together can equal or exceed the total of the closing costs on the reverse mortgage.

Whereas with the reverse mortgage you pay the closing costs upfront and then without paying closing costs again you have access to more funds through your life as long as you are living in the home as your primary residence.  The additional funds would be either through monthly payments, a line of credit if that is the type of loan you have chosen.

In the big picture the cost of the reverse mortgage is less than a forward mortgage over time because the interest rate is lower on the reverse mortgage.  Therefore typically it doesn’t take too long for a forward mortgage to make up and then exceed what difference there is in closing costs of the reverse mortgage.

Now that we’ve compared the costs side-by-side, are you surprised that they are comparable to a conventional loan?

Article updated May 2012

© 2011-2012 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-t4

Related articles:

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

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

Reverse Mortgages Are Expensive… Compared To What?

Reverse Mortgages Expensive - Compared to what?Everywhere you turn you hear or see in print that reverse mortgages are expensive.  I wonder what they are comparing them to to come up with this statement.

A conventional mortgage where one has to qualify for the loan based on income, credit, assets and ability to make the payment?  Where the interest rate is based on one’s income, credit, and assets?  Where one has to make monthly payments?  Where the loan has to be repaid in full either from the sale of the property or from assets?  Selling and moving?  Where there are fees for a realtor, closing fees, moving costs and rent?  Do they really think these options are less expensive?

Have you compared the reverse mortgage to a conventional mortgage?  Let’s take a look:

Terms Conventional Mortgage Reverse Mortgage
Retain Title/Own Home Yes Yes
Use Home For Collateral Yes Yes
Lien Placed Against Property Yes Yes
Income Requirements Yes* No
Credit Score Requirements Yes* No
Monthly Payment Requirements Yes* No
Repayment Term 15 years, 30 years, etc* When home is no longer primary residence or 150th birthday of borrower
Closing Costs Origination fee, third party fees, possibly FHA Mortgage Insurance Origination fee, third party fees, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium**
Amount To Be Repaid Loan Balance Loan Balance
Non-recourse, there is no personal liability to the borrower(s) or their estate Not an option – full loan balance is due and would be paid from the estate if not from the sale from the home Yes, the estate would NOT have to come up with the difference if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for (fair market valued)

*Terms and interest rate is determined by income, assets, credit score, ability to make payments and points.

** When costs are compared side-by-side the difference is the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium.  And the FHA MIP provides many benefits to senior homeowners who do a reverse mortgage.

Compared to Selling and Moving?  Let’s take a look.

Terms Selling & Moving/Rent In Senior Housing Reverse Mortgage
Retain Title/Own Home No Yes
Credit Score Requirements Yes (rental properties look at credit and income to determine if you’ll be able to pay the rent or need to rely on government programs) No
Monthly Payments Requirements Yes, Rent.  Rent in Assisted Living will range from $2,500 to $8,000/month depending on services.  Additional services, i.e. home care, will be additional. No
Realtor/Originator Fee 4% to7% Realtor Fee.  On a $200,000 home = $8,000 to $14,000. Origination Fee is 2% on the 1st $200,000; 1% thereafter max of $6,000.  On a $200,000 home = $4,000.
Third Party Fees/Other Fees Yes Yes; FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium
Non-recourse, there are is no personal liability to the borrower(s) or their estate Not applicable Yes, the estate would NOT have to come up with the difference if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for (at fair market value)


Where else can one access funds with these benefits for the cost of the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium?  To say the reverse mortgage costs are high compared to a conventional mortgage or to selling and moving is like comparing apples to oranges. 

So I still ask, reverse mortgages are expensive?  Compared to what?

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

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


Related articles:

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

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

We Are Not Chicken Littles – The Sky Is Not Falling In the Reverse Mortgage World!

We Are Not Chicken Littles - The Sky Is Not Falling on The Reverse Mortgage WorldWith Bank of America and Wells Fargo exiting the reverse mortgage industry along with the picture the media paints, I’m reminded of the story of Chicken Little thinking the sky is falling, looking at the doom and gloom.  Or jumping to the conclusion that because they have left the industry the reverse mortgage option is going away.

However, the sky is not falling in the reverse mortgage world!  Reverse mortgages are still available and a viable option for senior home owners.

There are still lenders lending, some new ones even entering the industry.  FHA is still insuring the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), covering the risks for the lenders when the home values drop.  Investors are still investing in reverse mortgages.  Servicers are still servicing reverse mortgages.

HUD still guarantees the funds are available for borrowers.  Monthly payments are still not required.  The loans are still non-recourse which means no personal liability to the borrower or the estate if the loan balance is higher than what the home can be sold for at the time the loan is due and payable; the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium covers the difference.  Reverse mortgage borrowers still have protections including the required counseling by a third-party HUD trained and approved counselor.  The HECM Standard, HECM Saver and HECM Home Purchase programs are all still available.

Seniors still own their home.  The majority of people want to remain in their home.  Staying in one’s home can be less costly than moving and renting in senior housing. The reverse mortgage remains a viable option to help seniors remain in their home.

Reverse mortgage interest rates are still low.  The funds can still be received in monthly payments, line of credit, a lump sum or a combination of these.  The line of credit still has a growth rate.  The monthly payments to the borrowers can still be received as tenure/for life or structured as one needs.  Reverse mortgage funds are still generally considered tax free.  Social Security and Medicare are still not affected by a reverse mortgage.  Medicaid (Medical Assistance in Minnesota) can still be received with a reverse mortgage.

The funds can still be used for: Paying off current mortgages and helping one out of foreclosure.  Paying for home repairs and home modifications, medical expenses, home care and long term care.  Paying taxes and protecting other assets.  Fulfilling dreams or whatever one needs or wants.Sky is not falling on MN Reverse Mortgages SIDAC

In the world of Reverse Mortgages SIDAC, we are NOT Chicken Littles, the sky is NOT falling.  We ARE STILL offering reverse mortgages through lenders who are committed to helping seniors stay in their home and have security, independence, dignity and control.

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

This material my be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link: http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-s1

Related Articles:

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

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

You Originate reverse mortgages…What Do You Do to Deserve all that money?

Often stated, the reverse mortgage is expensive and the fee the originator makes is part of the reason. Originating reverse mortgages is not as easy as one, two, three but a very time consuming process.

As we were going through the application and process, Joan, a recent client, said, “I sure hope you are being paid well for all this time and effort you put into my loan.” I hear these comments from most all of my clients.

To help you understand the work and time we, as reverse mortgage expert originators, put into originating and processing a reverse mortgage let me walk you though an outline and approximate time involved.  Note: While you may not read the outline word for word (yes, it’s long), you’ll at least have a good idea of the time involved for originating each reverse mortgage.  Make sure you go to the last five paragraphs for the conclusion.

  1. Take the phone call from one interested in a reverse mortgage.  Generally spend 30 to 60 minutes providing initial information and getting information to run calculations to determine eligibility.
  2. We generally spend time on researching property values. This can be critical to determining the feasibility of completing a reverse mortgage if there is a significant mortgage balance outstanding and important even without debt payoff concerns just to give the homeowner the most accurate estimate of loan proceeds possible – 20 to 60 minutes.
  3. Enter information into computer program, run calculations, prepare informational folder – approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
  4. Drive 60+ minutes round trip to the prospect’s home for an initial educational meeting.
  5. Discuss their situation and educate them on the reverse mortgage and possible other options – 1 to 3 hours.
    1. Leave a list of reverse mortgage counselors for the required FHA HUD insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) counseling.
  6. Generally there are numerous phone calls to answer additional questions.  These calls can be 15 minutes to an hour or more each call.
    1. Sometimes talk with family members or have an additional 1 to 2 hours face-to-face with prospect and their family.
  7. Receive phone call that the prospect is ready to proceed with the loan.  Schedule application time and date – 10 to 30 minutes (longer if they have additional questions).
  8. Call prospect to gather information needed for application as well as which option they are choosing – 15 to 20 minutes.
  9. Enter complete information into computer program – 20 to 30 minutes.
  10. Prepare the full application package for signatures and a separate borrower set – 60 minutes.
  11. Drive 60+ minutes round trip for the application.  Drive time can be 5 to 10 hours round trip if the client is outside the metro area.  (Some lenders will mail the application however I believe that the face-to-face meeting provides better explanations of each of the forms one is signing.)
  12. Spend 1 to 2 hours to review information on application and get signatures.MN Reverse Mortgage Borrowers Signing Application
  13. If counseling wasn’t completed prior to the application, work with borrower to receive counseling and counseling certification with signatures of both the counselor and the borrower(s) which is needed prior to starting the processing of the loan – 15 to 30 minutes.
    1. Originators now need to make contact with the chosen counselor, prior to the counseling session, and provide certain financial information to the counselor (calculations, etc) – 15 minutes.
    2. Make phone calls to have the signed counseling certificate faxed – 60 minutes.  Or will drive to pick up certification – another 60+ minutes round trip plus 10 to 15 minutes with borrower.
  14. Review file and prepare for submitting for processing – 15 to 30 minutes.
  15.  Start processing.  We are a reverse mortgage broker (one who works with more than one lender) and we process the loans in our office, we don’t send them off somewhere to another office or state to be processed.  While the processor is different than the originator, the originator of a broker is often involved in the facilitating the processing by working with the processor and the borrower through to the closing and funding, not just taking an application.
    1. Enter information into processing software program (one we have developed on our own) – Processor: 30 to 45 minutes.
    2. Request FHA Case Number – Processor: 10 minutes.
    3. Order Title Report – Processor: 10 minutes.
    4. Order appraisal from Appraisal Management Company – Processor: 10 minutes.
    5. Order Insurance Binder – Processor: 10 minutes.
    6. Pull Flood Certificate – Processor: 10 minutes.
    7. Pull Credit Report – Processor: 10 minutes.
    8. Pull other required documentation – Processor: 10 minutes each when necessary.
    9. Review Title Report when received – Processor and Originator: 15 to 30 minutes.
    10. Review appraisal when received – Processor and Originator: 30 minutes.
    11. Review Insurance Binder – Processor: 10 minutes.
    12. Review Flood Certificate – Processor: 10 minutes.
    13. Review Credit Report – Processor: 10 minutes.
    14. Request any changes if necessary – Processor: 10 minutes for each change that is necessary.Reverse Mortgage Borrower talking with MN Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer
    15. Phone calls with borrower for clarifications on any information that is on title, credit report, etc.   For example if a mortgage is on title that we didn’t know about, showing taxes weren’t paid, a judgment is on title or the credit report – Originator: 15 to 30 minutes each call.
    16. When appraisal is received, enter new value, if repairs are required, etc. in software program for calculations – Originator: 10 minutes.
    17. Update processing software program with changes – Processor: 10 minutes.
    18. Call borrower to advise borrower of appraised value, required repairs if any, and any calculation changes – Originator: 15 minutes.
      1. Or up to several hours based on the appraised value, repairs, or other factors, the borrower decides a program change would be in their best interest (i.e., a change from fixed rate to adjustable rate), or contractor bids or additional inspections are needed for repairs.
    19. Prepare re-disclosure for borrower – Originator: 10 to 15 minutes.
      1. Or up to several hours or more if, based on the appraised value or other factors, the borrower decides a program change would be in their best interest (i.e., a change from fixed rate to adj rate).
    20. Mail re-disclosure to borrower – Originator: 10 minutes.
    21. Review all documentation to make sure everything needed is in the file for underwriting – Processor: 20 to 30 minutes.
      1. Multiple follow up calls to the borrower may be necessary to remind them and/or advise them on missing, corrected or additional documents that are necessary (i.e., SS card shows maiden name, etc) – Originator: 10 to 20 minutes each call.
    22. Scan and submit file to underwriting – Processor: 15 minutes.
    23. Request final fees from title agent – Processor: 10 minutes.
    24. Address any underwriting conditions by contacting title company, appraisal management company, borrower, or making other necessary changes – Processor: 30 minutes to several hours depending on the condition.  Conditions are required so that HUD will insure the loan and the investors will provide the funding.
    25. Have borrower sign loan commitment – required in MN to be signed and dated by borrower and can’t close for 7 days – Originator: 60+ minutes round trip to get borrower’s signature plus 10 to 15 minutes with borrower.  Can be done via fax or scanned and emailed if borrower has this capability.  If they live outside the metro area and don’t have capability to fax or scan and email the commitment will be done through the mail delaying the time for the closing (not what the borrowers want at this point).
    26. Gather, review and Submit changes/conditions to underwriter – Processor: 10 to 15 minutes.
    27. Discuss with borrower how they want their reverse mortgage funds and their availability for closing – Originator: 15 to 30 minutes.
    28. Schedule closing according to availability of title agent/signer (and possibly a notary), borrower and loan officer and lender’s closing department’s timing requirements, and possibly with family members and/or Power of Attorney (POA) – Processor and Originator: 30 to 40 minutes  each of the phone calls.
    29. Prepare closing document request to send to lender – Processor: 15 minutes.
    30. Receive closing documents, review that the numbers match those in our program – Processor: 10 minutes.
    31. Attend closing.  We believe in attending the closing with our borrowers to assist in explaining the closing documents.  We generally close at borrower’s home for their convenience or would drive to the title company’s office – Originator: 60+ minutes round trip drive time.   Drive time can be 5 to 10 hours round trip if the client is outside the metro area.
    32. Closing with borrower – 1 to 1 ½ hours.MN Reverse Mortgage Borrower Signing Closing Documents
    33. Follow up on funding conditions, i.e. missed signatures or documents,  if there are any (we rarely have any) – Processor: 10 to 30 minutes.
      1. If necessary, we may make another trip to the borrower’s home to get a signature on a document in order to keep on schedule for funding) – Originator: 60+ minutes round trip drive time.  If outside of the metro area we will assist borrower via phone and having sent over-night the necessary documentation – 60+ minutes.
    34. Keep borrower advised of funding status, i.e. when funds were wired to their bank and payments made for paying mortgages, taxes, etc. – Originator: 10 to 15 minutes per phone call, generally 2 calls.
    35. Once funded, send thank you letter – Originator and Processor: 15 minutes to prepare and mail.
  16. Answer questions from borrowers during the life the loan – generally 15 to 30 minutes each call.  We often talk with our borrowers once or twice a year.

What is described above is an ideal no-problem/issues loan. The majority of our loans can have multiple issues that increase our time investment significantly including POA, Conservatorships, Trusts, non-borrowing and non-occupying individuals on the title, private liens and a long list of property issues including manufactured homes, condos, rural properties, repairs, etc. These can result in additional huge time requirements on the originator’s and processor’s part.

We also continually market for new clients meeting with referral sources and reverse mortgage prospects (some of whom decide to wait or not do the reverse mortgage), as well as other marketing efforts.

A good loan originator will take time to meet with the prospects, educate them, their families and advisors.  They will also be familiar with the processing and assist with the processing as well as be available to answer questions even after the loan is closed.  Originators, processors, underwriters, lenders, title companies and their settlement agents, and all involved in the loan process need to be compensated for their time, experience, and expertise.

The originator does NOT receive the full fee collected.  The fee received by the reverse mortgage broker covers the originator’s salary, the processor’s salary, marketing expenses, overhead for the business such as computers, office supplies, copiers, health insurance for employees, etc.  Originating a loan is not charged by the hour.  However if we calculated time versus pay, with some borrowers, because of various problems that come up or they need some extra hand holding, if we were to be paid by the hour there have been times when I would  make less than $10 an hour.

As we go through the application and process, my borrowers, as Joan did, recognize the time we put into helping them with their reverse mortgage and don’t question the fee we are paid. I hope this outline helps you also understand that it is a time consuming process and the reason the fees are what they are. And when broken down “all that money” is not really all that much compared to the time involved.

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

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

Related Articles:

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

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

Seventeen Facts About Reverse Mortgages You May Not Know.

With the many misunderstandings about reverse mortgages I want to share seventeen facts to help clear up the misconceptions.

  1. A reverse mortgage is a mortgage just like any loan against the home where the borrower is using the equity of their home to meet their needs and desires now, but with special terms for seniors 62 and older.
  2. The lender or bank does NOT own the home – YOU OWN THE HOME, you keep the title!  The lender or bank does NOT take your home when you die.
  3. Income and credit scores do not determine the interest rate. Interest rate is determined by the margin and the program chosen.
  4. No monthly mortgage payments are required.  Borrowers are responsible for paying property taxes, hazard insurance, maintaining the property, paying HOA dues if applicable.
  5. The home does not have to be free and clear or have a lot of equity.  Although enough equity is needed to pay off current liens and/or mortgages.
  6. There is no limitation on how the funds can be used.  Some common uses include paying off a current mortgage, paying for home repairs or modifications, planning for retirement and long term care, home health care or adult day services, medical expenses, every day living expenses and even to purchase a home.  Whatever one needs or wants.
  7. More options are available than with a conventional or home equity mortgage – Funds can be received in monthly payments structured as needed, line of credit (with a growth rate), lump sum, or a combination of these.
  8. Social Security and Medicare are not affected because it is a loan, and not considered income.
  9. Medicaid (Medical Assistance [MA] in Minnesota) can still be received with the reverse mortgage.  (Your originator should know this and be able to assist you if or when you are going on Medicaid.)
  10. Borrowers can stay in the home as long as it is their primary residence, or in the case of a couple, as long as one borrower is still in the home as their primary residence, and they are abiding by the terms of the loan.  The due date on the mortgage is the youngest borrower’s 150th birthday. Eligible non-borrowing spouses may be eligible for a Deferral Period.
  11. At the time of sale if the home is sold for more than the loan balance, the borrower(s) or their heirs receive the difference.  The bank does NOT keep the difference!
  12. The loan is non-recourse which means there is no personal liability to the borrower or their heirs.  This means borrowers or their heirs don’t have to come up with the difference if the loan balance is higher than what the home is sold (at fair market value).  Borrowers are not leaving a debt to their children.
  13. Just like any mortgage, borrowers are responsible for property taxes and insurance, association dues (if applicable), maintaining the property and abiding by the terms of the loan.
  14. As borrowers use the funds/equity and are not making monthly payments the loan balance increases meaning because they used the money now, there will be less available when the loan is being repaid.  (With a conventional mortgage one is using the equity but making monthly payments which repays the interest and a portion of the principal each month.)  With the reverse mortgage, one has the flexibility to choose to make payments to reduce the loan balance, funds then become available to re-borrower in the future.
  15. Closing costs are comparable to a conventional mortgage – even though many times they are considered expensive or high they compare to conventional loans, in fact the difference comes down to the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium.  Fees are regulated and only HUD allowed fees are permitted with no mark-ups or junk fees.  You can see a comparison of the costs in my article, “Surprise! Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs Actually Compare to Conventional Mortgage Costs”    Note, there are no out of pocket costs except for the appraisal, possibly engineering inspections and counseling.  The costs typically become part of the loan balance.
  16. FHA offers and insures through HUD the majority of reverse mortgages known as the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM, making it the most highly regulated mortgage available.
  17. HUD insuring the reverse mortgage provides advantages including:
  • Guaranteeing the funds are available for you.
  • Guaranteeing the lender against default or shortfalls
  • Keeping the interest rates lower, the interest rates have historically been lower compared to other mortgages.
  • Providing a line of credit growth rate (available only with reverse mortgages).
  • Ensuring as a reverse mortgage it is a non-recourse (no personal liability) loan.
  • Requiring counseling by a third party HUD trained and approved counselor.
  • The HECMs are highly protected.  See my Blog article “You Need To know Reverse Mortgage Borrowers Are Highly Protected.

Before dismissing a reverse mortgage as an option, know the facts and talk with a reverse mortgage expert to see if one is right for your situation.  Originators do not charge to meet with you and educate you on reverse mortgages.  No product or service is right for everyone but with the facts you can make an informed decision.

Originally posted in 2011, updated in 2015.

© 2011-2015 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

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

Related articles:

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

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

Who Should You Believe About Reverse Mortgages?

Questioning Who To Believe About Reverse Mortgages?With the media publishing articles about reverse mortgages by so called reporters and comments by professionals (financial, CPA, attorney), legislators,  and the general public, everyone has an opinion about reverse mortgages.  The many articles that have surfaced about reverse mortgages including in MSNBC, Time Magazine, Parade Magazine, Consumer Reports, and the National Consumer Law Center Report all provide information trying to give the impression the reporters have done their research.

Unfortunately these so called reporters have NOT done their research and their articles are NOT based on facts of reverse mortgages. They don’t have documentation supporting their statements. If they had done their research and had the documentation to support their statements the articles would read much differently.  Consequently the articles misrepresent reverse mortgages and are painting negative images based on the so called reporters’ biased opinions which spread the misconceptions and  misunderstandings of reverse mortgages.

Even the articles that outline the facts have comments that reflect ignorance of reverse mortgages.  And the sad point is that people are believing these sources who don’t have the facts or take the time to get the facts.

Think about it.  Would you go to a plumber for health issues?  Of course not!  You go to a doctor.  And don’t you go to a specialist for the area of your concern, i.e. a heart specialist for heart disease?  So why go to the media, professionals, legislators or others instead of going to a reverse mortgage specialist for the facts on reverse mortgages?

Let me share 15 facts about reveres mortgages that are often misunderstood:

  1. A reverse mortgage is a mortgage just like any home equity loan where one uses the equity of the home but it has special terms for seniors 62 and older.
  2. The lender or bank does NOT own the home – YOU OWN THE HOME, you keep the title and are responsible for property taxes and insurance, association dues (if applicable), maintaining the property and abiding by the terms of the loan.
  3. There are no income or credit score requirements to qualify for the FHA Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM). (Some proprietary jumbo reverse mortgages may have credit qualifications.)
  4. No monthly mortgage payments are required.
  5. There is no limitation on how the funds can be used.
  6. Offers more options – Funds can be received in monthly payments structured for life or as needed, line of credit (with a growth rate), lump sum, or a combination of these.
  7. Social Security and Medicare are not affected because it is a loan, not considered income.
  8. Medicaid (Medical Assistance (MA) in Minnesota) and other government benefits can still be received with the reverse mortgage.
  9. Borrowers can stay in the home as long as it is their primary residence or in the case of a couple as long as one borrower is still in the home as their primary residence.  The due date on the mortgage is the youngest borrower’s 150th birthday.
  10. At the time of sale if the home is sold for more than the loan balance, the borrower(s) or their heirs receive the difference.  The lender or bank does NOT keep the difference!
  11. The loan is non-recourse which means there is no personal liability to the borrower or their heirs if they are not retaining ownership.  So borrowers or their heirs don’t have to come up with the difference if the loan balance is higher than what the home is be sold for as long as they are not retaining ownership.  Borrowers are not leaving a debt to their children.
  12. As borrowers use the funds/equity and are not making monthly payments the loan balance increases meaning because they used the money now, there will be less available when the loan is being repaid.  (With a conventional mortgage one is using the equity but making monthly payments which repays the interest and a portion of the principal each month.)
  13. Fees are regulated and only HUD allowed fees are permitted with no mark-ups or junk fees.  Even though many times they are considered expensive or high they compare to conventional loans, in fact the difference comes down to the FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium.  You can see a comparison of the costs in my article, “Reverse Mortgage Costs – High or Mythical?” and “Do You Understand The Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs?
  14. FHA offers and insures through HUD the majority of reverse mortgages known as the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage or HECM, making it the most highly regulated mortgage available.   The advantages include:
    • Guaranteeing the funds are available for you.
    • Guaranteeing the lender against default or shortfalls which means the interest rates are lower (currently under 3% on the adjustable rate; 5.56% on the fixed) compared to other mortgages.
    • Providing a line of credit growth rate (available only with reverse mortgages).
    • Insuring as a reverse mortgage it is a non-recourse (no personal liability) loan.
  15. The HECM borrowers are highly protected.  See my Blog article “You Need To know Reverse Mortgage Borrowers Are Highly Protected!

At Applicaiton Receive Reverse Mortgage Sample Closing DocumentsThese facts are all supported in the documents signed at application and at closing including the Important Terms and the Loan Agreement. With the reverse mortgage the sample closing documents are required to be provided to borrowers at the time of application so they have the opportunity to review, have their family and/or attorney review the documents before signing.  If they read them they will have the facts as outlined above.

One would think it is a simple answer to the question, “Who Should You Believe About Reverse Mortgages?”  However seeing the many articles along with the comments it appears people believe the wrong source.  So are you going to believe the media and non reverse mortgage professionals about reverse mortgages?  I encourage you to get the facts from a reverse mortgage specialist just as you get your health facts from the health care specialist.  Then decide if it is right for your situation.

© 2010 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material my be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety and without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-n4

Related Articles:

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

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

My Reverse Mortgage Funds Are Used… Now What?

MN Reverse Mortgage Borrower Can Stay In HomeA question on a recent post was “What happens when a borrower uses all the funds or out lives the money?  This happened to a woman and then she had to pay rent she didn’t have.”

The first part of the question is common and shows the continued need to clarify the many misconceptions and lack of understanding of reverse mortgages.  The second part of the question demonstrates confusion on whether the loan this woman had is a reverse mortgage and/or the misuse of the term “rent.”

A reverse mortgage is a loan, like any other conventional loan or home equity loan, using the equity in one’s home but has special terms for seniors 62 and older.  The amount of the loan is determined by the age of the borrower, the home value or FHA lending limit, the Expected Interest Rate, and program chosen.  Facts to consider:

  • Borrowers own the home, no one else does.
  • Borrowers can stay in their home as long it’s their primary residence.  The due date on the reverse mortgage is the borrower’s 150th birthday.  In the case of a couple, as long as one of the borrowers remains in the home as their primary residence, the loan can stay in place.
  • Borrowers don’t have to make monthly mortgage payments.
  • Borrowers won’t lose their home for the lack of making mortgage payments.
  • Loan proceeds are not subject to income tax, are government insured and guaranteed to be there for you.
  • Borrowers or their estate get to keep any remaining equity after the loan is paid off.
  • As a non-recourse loan there is no personal liability to borrowers or their estate when repaying the loan and borrowers or their estate are not retaining ownership.
  • There are no income or credit qualifications and generally no out of pocket costs other than the appraisal.

With a “true” reverse mortgage, the most common being insured by FHA’s Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, or HECM, the borrowers can remain in their home as long as the home is their primary residence.  Even if one has used all the funds available from the reverse mortgage, the borrowers can stay in the home without having monthly mortgage payments or rent payments.  The loan is guaranteed by FHA.

Borrowers have options on receiving their funds which include monthly payments, line of credit, lump sum or a combination of these.  When paying off current mortgages, a requirement of the loan, in some situations the reverse mortgage proceeds may be used up front in essence using all the funds right away.  This means they can still have the loan without mortgage payments yet improving their cash flow because they don’t have to make mortgage payments.

The borrower’s responsibilities include paying property taxes, keeping home owner’s/hazard insurance on the property as well as maintaining the property.  If a borrower does not pay their taxes and insurance the loan becomes due and payable.

In the question above, to assist borrowers, and not call the loan due, if there are no funds left from the reverse mortgage, the lender may have paid the taxes and insurance and then required the borrower make payments to cover the taxes and insurance.  This is NOT rent but a repayment because in essence the lender is loaning more money beyond the terms of the reverse mortgage loan.

Previously lenders may have paid on the borrowers’ behalf the taxes and insurance such as this but that is about to change, see my blog article regarding this, “Reverse Mortgage Borrowers’ Responsibilities… Or Consequences.

If rent is being required on the “reverse mortgage” as suggested in the question, I’m guessing it is not a reverse mortgage insured by HUD or a proprietary (private) reverse mortgage offered by the FHA lenders which are modeled after the HECM.

It may have been a loan set up by a bank or another lender or through a private person/family member calling it a reverse mortgage but not having the same terms as a true reverse mortgage insured by HUD or by a proprietary program modeled after the HECM that doesn’t require payments and is non-recourse.

Note that the HECM and these proprietary reverse mortgages offer more protections than any other type of financing including require counseling by third-party HUD approved counselors.

Or it may have been someone who purchased the home and set up terms to have the woman stay in the home with a lease back and when funds from the sale ran out she had to pay rent.

I’ve also received the question about someone taking out a “reverse mortgage” and having to make interest payments.  Again this would not be a HECM or proprietary program offered by FHA HUD approved lenders who’s programs don’t require payments and are non-recourse.

If one is having to pay rent or make any other form of mortgage payment it is not a true reverse mortgage.  I suggested to the questioner to review the loan documents to determine what are the actual terms of that loan.Having Reverse Mortgage Documents Explained

This leads to the conclusion that one should work with a lender who specialized in the HUD Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, is familiar with and takes the time to explain the terms of the loan, as well as follows HUD’s requirements including the requirement of the HUD approved counseling.  A list of things to consider when talking with lenders can be found by clicking here.  Borrowers should not sign documents without understanding the terms of the loan and consequences if the terms are not abided by.

© 2010 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Revers Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

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

Related Articles:

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

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

Reverse Mortgage Borrowers’ Responsibilities… or Consequences

Signing Reverse Mortgage ApplicationWhen loan documents are signed at closing, borrowers agree to the terms of the loan, whether a conventional loan for purchase; a conventional home equity mortgage; or a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), the reverse mortgage insured by HUD; or a proprietary (private) reverse mortgage.  As with any home loan, with the reverse mortgage borrowers are using the equity in their home and the title of the home remains in the borrower’s name, no the bank doesn’t own the home, nor do they want the home.

The reverse mortgage has helped seniors 62 and older remain in their home with their security, independence, dignity and control but not without responsibilities to adhere to the terms of the loan.  The main responsibilities are to not violate terms of the loan, generally these include:

  • Paying property taxes
  • Keeping hazard insurance on the property
  • Maintaining the property
  • Paying association dues if appropriate
  • Not changing/transferring the title

Paying property taxes means keeping up with the county property taxes, paying them on time.  If one doesn’t pay property taxes, with or without a loan, the county could start tax forfeiture or foreclosure.

Keeping hazard insurance on the property helps protect the homeowner and lender if there is any damage to the property.  Being the lenders are invested in the property by lending money based on the home equity, they require the insurance so their investment is protected if there is damage.  For example if a tree falls on the home and damages the roof, the hazard insurance will cover the replacement of the roof and bring the home back to the condition required for lender’s investment.

Maintaining the property is required to protect the lender’s investment in the property and includes keeping the home in good condition including not letting the property become run down.  Keeping the roof in good repair, insuring the siding and trim do not have chipped or bear wood but are protected against the elements.  Ensuring against safety issues such as automatic garage doors will rise if something is under them, railings are in place and stable on stairs and decks rotten boards are replaced.  Interior maintenance is also important, for example having heating, electricity, plumbing, water in working order as well as safety issues such as railings on stairs.

If one is in a condo or town home and association dues are required, loans require that the association dues are kept current.  If they are not kept current then the association has the right to force the homeowner from the property.

What are the consequences if the requirements of the reverse mortgage loan terms are not abided by? If terms of the loan agreement are not followed, the lenders have the right to call the loan due and payable or foreclose.

Changing or transferring titles will mean the loan becomes due and payable.  For example if one decides to add a person to the title of the property, implement a Life Estate, or sell the property this changes who the lender’s have invested their interests.  If the property is going to be put in a trust it will not mean the loan will be come due and payable however the lender will need to review the trust to ensure that it meets the requirements of their investors and in the case of the HUD insured HECM, the trust must meet HUD’s guidelines.

The area that has caused the biggest problem is when borrowers don’t pay their the property taxes and hazard insurance. Even though there are a large number of borrowers who have fall into this area, to date there have been very few reverse mortgages foreclosed because of the default of payment for taxes and insurance.  HUD has been very forgiving and not pressuring the servicing companies to foreclose, however this is about to change.

Due to FHA’s budget, the arm of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) who insures the majority of reverse mortgages, is looking to find a solution to their budget shortfalls and make the program profitable.  Fannie Mae who has a large portfolio of the HUD reverse mortgages is also encouraging the HECM servicers to address the issue of delinquent taxes and insurance to protect their company from losses.

With conventional mortgages, if taxes and insurance are not paid, the lenders will start an escrow account, requiring more money from borrowers in their monthly payments for the escrow account.  The lenders then make the tax and insurance payments on behalf of the borrower from their escrow accounts.

Being reverse mortgage borrowers are not making payments collecting funds for the escrow account is not an option.  What the servicing companies have done if there is a line of credit is use these funds to pay the taxes.  If a reveres mortgage borrower is receiving monthly payments, they will be restructured so that the taxes and insurance can be paid.  Unfortunately if all the funds have been used and taxes and insurance have not been paid the loan is in default.

HUD is working toward establishing guidance for the reverse mortgage servicing companies to address the tax and insurance delinquencies.  But if the borrowers do not have the capacity to pay the taxes and insurances they owe, the servicer will be forced to foreclose on the property per HUD’s requirements.  (Note that reverse mortgage servicing companies are required to abide by HUD’s requirements.)

Having reverse mortgage terms and responsibilities explained

Having reverse mortgage terms and responsibilities explained

While the originators, counselors and loan documents spell out these requirements, borrowers must take their responsibilities seriously.  It is also their responsibility to be sure to look at their budget and have a plan to be able to pay their property taxes, hazard insurance as well as maintaining the property.  Then they can remain in their home and enjoy the many benefits of the reverse mortgage.

© 2010 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

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

Related articles on Reverse Mortgages in Minnestoa:

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 Understand The Reverse Mortgage Closing Costs?

Signing Reverse Mortgage ApplicationAs with a conventional mortgage, there are costs associated with a reverse mortgage.  While perceived as high, once understood you’ll see the reverse mortgage costs are comparable to a conventional loan.  Most people don’t understand the fees, what they cover or why they have to be paid with a conventional loan either, they just accept them as part of doing a loan.

One difference is that with the HUD insured reverse mortgage, the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), HUD regulates the fees and does not allow marked up or “junk fees,” borrowers only pay the actual costs.

To get clear, let’s understand what the Minnesota fees are and what they cover.

Fee Explanation Cost/Charge
Origination Fee Covers the lender’s time and costs associated with originating the loan including: loan officer’s and staff’s salary, administrative costs, business overhead (computers, office space, utilities, health insurance, office supplies, marketing, processing, underwriting, etc.)  (Note processing and underwriting fees are generally additional fees on conventional loans but have to be included in the origination fee on FHA reverse mortgages loans.) HUD sets guidelines for the origination fee: Maximum of 2% of the first $200,000 of the home value or lending limit, 1% on the balance thereafter with a cap of $6,000 or a minimum of $2,500.
FHA Mortgage Insurance Premium A required charge from FHA because they are insuring the loan.  Keeps the interest rate lower, allows more to be borrowed, guarantee funds are available, and covers risk so borrower or heirs are not personally liable. 2% of the property value or mortgage lending limit, whichever is less.
Appraisal Fee for FHA licensed appraiser to determine the market value of the property.  Includes a management fee for an independent company to order the appraisal. $450 – $500
Repair Administration Fee All loans with repairs are charged an administration fee for overseeing that the repairs are completed, ordering inspection, processing payments, etc. 1.5% of the repair bid
Credit Report Fee This is to check if there are any liens or judgements against the property or person that would need to be paid or other contradictory information. $18 – $20
Flood Certification Fee For verifying whether flood insurance is required or not. $15 – $20
Courier Fee To send pay offs to a current lender if there are any. Approximately $30 each
Counseling by Third-party HUD approved counselor A fee may be charged to the borrower for counseling services as long as it does not create a hardship.  The counselors must make a determination about the borrowers ability to pay which may include factors such as income and debt obligations – HUD recommends a written procedure for this.  Counselors must inform borrowers of the fee structure in advance of services and cannot be turned away, nor the counseling certificate be withheld based on failure to pay.  The Counseling fee may become part of the costs at closing. Up to $125 allowed by HUD
Document Preparation Fee Charge for preparing the loan documents for closing.  A specialized company prepares the loan package. $100-$125
Escrow, Settlement or Closing Fee Charged by the title company for handling the title work and closing of the loan.- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – -Sometimes there is an additional signing/notary fee or an additional fee for going to a borrower’s home. Generally $250 – $350- – – – – – – – – – – – – – – $125-$200 signing/ notary fee
Abstract or Title Search This charge is for searching the county records. $150-$185
Title Examination This is for the examiner to review the title and put the commitment together. $135-$150
Title Insurance Title company’s insurance on the property guaranteeing clear ownership and protect lender if there is a defect in the title.  Different than owner’s title insurance policy. Based on property value.
Recording Fees Fees for recording documents with the county such as mortgage, deeds, county taxes, bankruptcy, name change due to divorce or loss of spouse $46 each + a $5 conservation fee
County Tax Mortgage Registration Tax required in Minnesota and collected by the county. Based on Principal Limit
Survey/Plat Drawing; Name & Assessment Search Fee for obtaining and reviewing the plat drawing; Fee for searching names and assessments on title $60; $30; $30 = $120 combined (higher for some counties)
Fees Paid by Lender to Broker such as Yield Spread Premium; Service Release Premium; Lender Paid Broker Compensation Brokers/originating lenders are paid in two ways, one by you (the origination fee) the other by the lenders.  Lenders pay brokers/originating lenders compensation for submitting loans to their company.  This compensation also covers the broker’s/originating lender’s time and costs associated with their running their business.It does need to be disclosed on the Good Faith Estimate.  Note that federally chartered banks do not have to disclose this information to borrowers even though the same compensation is paid. This is NOT A BORROWER EXPENSE!To disclose this to you, on the GFE it will be shown as a fee then credited back so it is not actually charged to you.

As the RESPA (Real Estate Settlement and Procedures Act) changes effective January 1, 2010 a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) can ONLY be provided with an actual application.  It is no longer allowed for the informational or quote package to include a GFE.

  • Information (in addition to the name, birthday, property information, current loan details,) that will trigger the application include the Social Security Number, Monthly Income, assets, debts, any other pertinent information.  This information should NOT be provided until lender is chosen and ready to proceed with an application.  Once lenders have this information they may start processing the loan.

Note that the fees, other than the Appraisal and possibly the counseling fee, are wrapped into the loan so there are no other out of pocket costs.

Being clear and having an understanding of the reverse mortgage costs helps you make better decisions and takes the fear away from the reverse mortgage.

© 2010 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

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

Related articles:

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

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

A Letter to Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty Regarding Reverse Mortgages

Emailing the MN Governor about reverse mortgage legislationFrom the time I first heard about the proposed reverse mortgage legislation in 2009, SF489, I have been writing to and in contact with MN Governor Pawlenty’s office.  This year even prior to having details of the bill I started contacting Governor Pawlenty’s office, sending emails regarding the suspected legislation.  After Friday evening May 14, 2010 when I finally found the details of the bill SF2430 I again sent Governor Pawlenty a message requesting a veto this time outlining with the details of the issues of the bill.  Following is the latest letter I sent to him requesting a veto.

Dear Governor Pawlenty,

After having time to review the reverse mortgage amendment to SF2430/HF2699 I want to provide the reasons why this reverse mortgage legislation should be vetoed.

Besides the facts I have pointed out previously:

  • This bill has not been transparent – the amendment was just added on the afternoon of May 14, 2010 with no prior knowledge of the details to those of us in the reverse mortgage industry.
  • This reverse mortgage legislation is controversial.  Any reverse mortgage legislation should not happen without a full hearing.
  • While it appears they pulled the language of suitability, this bill still contains some of the same language as the 2009 SF489/HF528 which was vetoed last year which would mean increased costs to reveres mortgage borrowers and/or cause some lenders to refrain from offering reverse mortgages in Minnesota.

The main issues include:

1.  Why should a lender receive a civil penalty an dhave to pay $1,000 for something a counselor does or doesn’t do?  Who and how is this going to be overseen?

 

The language of this is subjective setting up an opportunity for litigation and lenders may decide not to lend in the state if there is a risk of civil penalty for something they have no control over.

 

  • Implementing state laws that are different than the HUD requirements will make it more difficult for prospective borrowers to receive counseling.
    • Some of the counseling opportunities currently available to our Minnesota borrowers will no longer be an option as some of the counseling agencies may decide that with different regulations they will not provide counseling in the state.
  • Having the state oversee counseling different than the HUD requirements is likely to be costly for the state in seeing that these regulations are followed by counselors in the state as well as across the country.

2.  Adding the language for Lender default and forfeiture may mean lenders will choose not to loan with this requirement and HUD may choose not to insure the loans with these requirements.

3. Seven-day cooling off period; right of rescission will mean the loans will be more expensive for seniors and without the opportunity to waive the provision under certain circumstances such as foreclosure may mean that seniors could lose their home because the reverse mortgage could not be done timely.

 

 

  • It appears they changed the 10-day rescission period language to a seven-day cooling off period but it would have the same negative consequences as the 10-day rescission period.
  • Language is vague and subjective, i.e. “written commitment to make the reverse mortgage loan. “ What does “written commitment” mean?  This makes it more likely for litigation.

4.  This law would be additional costs to the state. While the bill may not be showing as a having a budget expenditure, there would be additional costs to the state in overseeing that state laws are followed versus the difference from the federal regulations.  If the loan becomes more expensive to seniors and/or lenders choose not to loan in the state more seniors are likely to lose their homes without the reverse mortgage option.  Consequently the foreclosures would increase and more housing would be needed for seniors and much of this would be born as state expense.

5.  All lenders do not have to abide by the state rules. Federal chartered banks do not have to abide by the state rules because they are federal chartered yet brokers and non-federal chartered banks and lenders would have to follow any state laws.  This would be a monopolistic-like advantage for the FDIC banks over other lenders. This obviously does not foster fair competition between all lenders and small business.

6.  Seniors can apply for and if they qualify can receive a conventional or home equity loan to refinance without all the regulations that are done with a reverse mortgage. Sometimes they may feel it is easier and less invasive to do so.  Unfortunately many who have taken a conventional or home equity loan run into problems making the required monthly payments then inquire about a reverse mortgage.  With the lower home values many times these seniors do not qualify for the reverse mortgage and then often face foreclosure and lose their homes.  Or they may just use credit cards to finance their retirement expenses then run into problems when they can’t make the payments.  There aren’t additional requirements for seniors to qualify for credit cards.  And there aren’t additional requirements for seniors to take out a car loan.  So why have such tight regulations on reverse mortgages when seniors can make other choices that could be more detrimental to them.

7.  Implementing this legislation is insulting to our seniors who have worked hard all of their lives – they are not children, they have lots of experience and knowledge – some that we could and should learn from – so why are we treating them like children?  They have the right to be educated on their options then decide what is right for their situation, not have legislators, counselors, or lenders make decisions for them.

Keep in mind that:  A reverse mortgage is a mortgage just like any other loan but has special terms for seniors 62 and older. And besides the special terms to benefit them to qualify and improve their life the reverse mortgage borrowers are already highly protected (see attached article)!  I would like to educate those making legislative decisions on the facts and terms of reverse mortgages then determine what legislation needs to be implemented for proprietary reverse mortgages.

Again, I ask that you veto the reverse mortgage legislation SF2430/HF2699 to protect Minnesota Seniors and the reverse mortgage businesses.

 

Thank you,

Beth Paterson
Executive Vice President
Prestige Mortgage LLC
Reverse Mortgages SIDAC
Security, Independence, Dignity and Control
The Experts Excelling In Service
Phone:  651-762-9648
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Fax:  651-653-0878
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While Governor Pawlenty recognizes the issues as he stated in his 2009 veto letter, the unfortunate fact is that this legislation was not a stand alone bill but is attached to a foreclosure bill and without the line-item-veto authority may be signed into law.  If this is the case it will be very unfortunate for Minnesota seniors as well as the reverse mortgage industry.

© 2010 Beth Paterson, Beth’s Reverse Mortgage Blog, 651-762-9648

This material may be re-posted provided it is re-posted in its entirety without modifications and includes the contact information, copyright information and the following link:  http://wp.me/p4EUZQ-k2

Related articles:

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

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