Dear Boomer, Is your mortgage the only reason you can't retire?
I am writing to shed some light on a reverse mortgage as a possible solution to making your retirement happen sooner rather than later. Lots of folks simply can't retire because their house payments are their largest fixed expense and they don't see any way around that. Contemplate for a moment what impact having no mortgage payment would have on your retirement goals. What do you plan to do when you retire? Travel? Visit the kids? Volunteer? Get a part-time job? Adopt a pet?
If you enjoy working (like I do), don't stop! If you enjoy making mortgage payments, I guess don't stop doing that either. Studies show that staying active means a healthier you!
Unfortunately, retirement isn't always optional; it may be forced due to such things as health or loss of job. But if the decision is yours and you have reached your tipping point, why not look around at a possible financial strategy to get you pointed in the right direction?
You have probably started the "hope to retire" conversation with friends and family and you are exploring Social Security, Medicare and pension payouts with a financial planner. You may also be reading articles on what to do prior to retiring such as making home improvements to make your home more safe and sound. There are lots of things to consider.
My advice: Always talk to a professional or a specialist. Don't listen to your second cousin's brother who knew someone who had a reverse mortgage but is now deceased. No foolin'! You would be amazed at the number of people who receive information from pseudo experts or the grapevine. Always talk to a professional. Guidelines change and you need accurate information.
You know (or should know) that equity is a non-liquid asset. Therefore, a HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) aka Reverse Mortgage, provides the means for tapping your home's equity and making that equity finally work for you!
Ahh - retirement at last!
Tip: The amount of money received from a reverse mortgage is based on several criteria and the age of the youngest borrower is key.
AND what if you have already paid off your mortgage? Perfect! A reverse mortgage on a home which has no current mortgage provides the homeowner with more cash.
Did you know, that when you permanently leave the home, the reverse mortgage lender can never collect more than the house is worth? So even if you borrow the maximum amount available to you and you spend it all over time, your heirs can sell the home and pay off the mortgage. If the home sells for more than the home is worth, the proceeds are a bonus.
Caution: Don't get behind on mortgage payments or property taxes or hazard insurance for any reason now or ever. A LESA (Life Expectancy Set Aside) can impact how much money you get.
You can't outlive a reverse mortgage as long as the home remains the primary residence AND the homeowner continues to maintain the home and pay the required property taxes and homeowners insurance on time.
Dear Boomer, Is your mortgage the only reason you can't retire?
Don't wait to consult a reverse mortgage specialist. Explore your options. I am happy to answer all your questions. If you don't know Jack...you should. You are invited to read my client testimonials.
For more information: Surviving spouses and reverse mortgages;
Reverse mortgage & certificate of occupancy;
You can't flunk reverse mortgage counseling.
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