Preventing a parent from taking a Reverse Mortgage can be "elder abuse"

I wonder if the kids fear losing their inheritance?  Stranger things have happened and money brings the worst out in many people.

The reality is reverse mortgages are not always the best solution for the client. I have seen many cases where other mortgage people were pushing the reverse mortgage on the client and the reality was that the client would have been served better by and equity line. Reason was the costs associated with the reverse mortgage and the time that the client planned on living in the home. The other mortgage person would not even consider that option since they would not recieve as much compensation. Reality is every case is different

Michael, my husband also is in the mortgage business and has been doing RM's for a couple of years now. It's just a lack of education. People believe all the negative press from those who just don't know! It's not for everybody or every situation, but many times it can be a lifesaver. We just have to help people understand how it works. Keep up the good work.

To Edward, but with an equity line comes a payment. That may be what they are trying to avoid. You can also use an RM to purchase a home. Which mortgage fits for which client at which time is the job of a good loan officer. Whether it's an RM or a forward loan. As far as compensation, most cases they pay less than a regular loan. And they are time consuming.

One size doesn't fit all when it comes to RM -- I do believe that there are "children" who don't want to see their inheritance disappear.  Hopefully an elderly person has a strong non family member to help out with overbearing children. ~ Evelyn

Hi Michael, it is sad when you see kids that are more concerned for themselves that their parents.  It is not unusual to see and often times, no matter what you say, the kids will win.

We have talked with our parents and they are considering a RM when and if they need it. We told them enjoy your money you worked hard for it and we'll make our own.

Some kids are looking out for their parents and the family home. Sometimes the kids may not know exactly how a RM works and be intimidated. Education is the best defense against stupid decisions. Educate yourself before you decide something so important. Also each homeowners situation is different. You should always arm yourself with knowledge and talk to several pros AND your family to decide what is right for you.

As a reverse mortgage specialist I feel it is my job to educate the elderly and the childen as to the benifits of the reverse mortgage, I spend more time "telling rather than selling" . There is so much misinformation out and so many people just don't know.

I agree with the need to educate more people and I am trying to self-educate and then will discuss with a lender.

I can understand those who are leery - it seems too good to be true. Are lenders really being altruistic or is this just another loan program that helps the lenders stay in business?