Reverse Mortgages and Older Adults: The Basics

Reverse mortgages are loans in which a homeowner borrows money against the value of their home. These types of mortgages are only available to homeowners age 62 and older.

There are three types of reverse mortgage loans. A single-purpose reverse mortgage, a federally insured reverse mortgage, and a proprietary reverse mortgage. Each type of reverse mortgage loan has its own eligibility requirements and risks. It’s important to understand the basics of each to find the right reverse mortgage for you.

This article explains how reverse mortgages work, the three loan types available to adults 62 and older, and the eligibility rules for each. You’ll also find the risks you should be aware of before using home equity for income.

Reverse mortgages can be complex and high in fees. An elder law attorney near you can help you evaluate your options and protect your financial interests before committing.

Reverse Mortgage Basics Explained

A reverse mortgage allows a homeowner to use their home equity as collateral. This enables a homeowner to receive money as an annuity, a lump sum, monthly payments, or a line of credit. Usually, an older adult homeowner will use these funds to supplement retirement income or pay for health care expenses or in-home care.

Typically, the loan comes due after an agreed-upon period or when the borrower dies. The mortgage company bases the amount on the appraised value of the borrower’s home.

Generally, the borrower must meet all the following criteria:

• At least one listed homeowner, 62 or older
• The home must be the homeowner’s primary home
• The home loan balance must be all or mostly paid off

If a homeowner meets these requirements, they may get a reverse mortgage from a reverse mortgage lender.

Types of Reverse Mortgages

The three types of reverse mortgages each have specific requirements and terms.

Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) regulates federal government loans. A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is the only reverse mortgage loan insured by the U.S. Federal Government. It’s available through a Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-approved lender. Taking out an HECM requires that you have mortgage insurance and pay higher insurance premiums.

Single-Purpose Reverse Mortgage

Single-purpose reverse mortgages tend to have lower costs. But, borrowers can only use the money for a specific purpose, which the lender specifies. You will qualify for a single-purpose reverse mortgage if your income is low or moderate.

Proprietary Reverse Mortgage

Mortgage companies or financial institutions offer proprietary reverse mortgages. A proprietary reverse mortgage, or a jumbo reverse mortgage, allows homeowners to apply for a larger loan amount.

Features and Risks of Reverse Mortgages

Depending on the type of loan, a homeowner can use the borrowed money to:

• Pay for home repairs
• Pay off traditional mortgage payments
• Pay for medication or living expenses
• Ensure a consistent monthly retirement income
• Take a long-desired vacation
• Buy a house

For example, suppose a retired homeowner finds that their income from savings or Social Security payments isn’t enough. In that case, a reverse mortgage is useful for increasing monthly income. A reverse mortgage can provide a guaranteed income for the rest of your life. This can ensure that you or your loved one can afford assisted living or end-of-life caregiving costs.is

Reverse mortgages also involve unique risks. A senior citizen may have diminished decision-making capacity and can’t fully understand the terms and obligations of these loans. They are susceptible to deceptive advertising or face financial pressure to pay for long-term care or nursing home costs.

Potential borrowers should know that:

• Foreclosure may occur due to a failure to pay property taxes or homeowners insurance, as these obligations remain the borrower’s responsibility.
• Once the last surviving homeowner dies, the loan comes due. The heir or estate administrator typically has 30 days for repayment. They can also sell the house or allow the lender to foreclose.
• Reverse mortgages typically involve high fees and costs, with compounding interest rates.
• Reverse mortgages can affect Medicaid or Medicare eligibility.

For a more detailed explanation of issues, read Findlaw’s article on the features of reverse mortgages.

Changes to Reverse Mortgage Regulations

Reverse mortgage regulations continue to develop. After a lawsuit, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued new rules allowing a surviving spouse of a homeowner-borrower to continue to live in the home if the homeowner-borrower dies.

This new rule applies to federally insured reverse mortgages obtained on or after August 4, 2014. Before that date, a reverse mortgage loan came due if a homeowner-borrower died and their spouse was not listed as a borrower. This meant that the surviving spouse would have to move out.

Now, only one spouse must be 62 years old or older for a married couple to qualify for a reverse mortgage. Before, the rule required that both spouses were 62 or older.

Lastly, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, starting June 30, 2023, reverse mortgage lenders will change to a new interest rate index. This may have a small effect on reverse mortgage loan balances.

State Regulations for Reverse Mortgages

Many states have enacted their own reverse mortgage laws. In Texas, for example, a 2013 proposition created new lender disclosure rules to ensure borrowers know the conditions and consequences of reverse mortgages.

In California, a 2014 law requires lenders to provide potential borrowers with a self-evaluation questionnaire informing the borrower of the need to understand the mortgage terms fully.

Another California law, enacted in 2012, prevents insurance brokers and agents from participating in reverse mortgages unless they meet certain stringent conditions.

Considering a Reverse Mortgage? Get Legal Advice First

Reverse mortgages are complex and can involve high fees, closing costs, and significant legal issues. Potential borrowers need to know their rights and their obligations under these loans. If you or an older loved one is considering a reverse mortgage, it’s important to seek legal services from an experienced elder law attorney near you.

FindLaw’s directory of elder law attorneys can get you started. Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals near you. Because your state’s laws are relevant, your lawyer should be licensed in your state. Your search results will also show important details about prospective attorneys, like ratings and whether they offer free case evaluations.