-
The current government shutdown has left many Americans with questions about how federal services will be affected, especially those who rely on government-backed programs for their finances and housing. Among those who have good ready to worry are homeowners with a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), better known as a federally insured reverse mortgage. These…
-
When a loved one enters their later years, the financial dynamics of the family often shift. Adult children, focused on their own careers and families, begin to worry about their parents’ security. Will Mom or Dad run out of money? What happens if they need care? Persistent misleading noise surrounding reverse mortgages often compounds this…
-
Serving as an executor for a loved one’s estate is a big responsibility. When that estate includes a home with a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) or reverse mortgage, the process can seem overwhelming. This type of loan can feel a bit unique, but understanding its specific requirements and deadlines, and especially have an executor…
-
Imagine interest rates holding steady but higher than homeowners looking to refinance are comfortable with. They feel stuck and out of options. But what if high rates were actually a golden opportunity for senior homeowners? And why should the professionals that serve this population care? Read on to learn not only why high interest rates…
-
As a REALTOR, you’ve likely encountered a common scenario: a senior homeowner whose cherished, long time residence has become a source of burden. The home is too large, the upkeep is too demanding, and the stairs are becoming a daily challenge. These clients often feel trapped, hesitant to sell because they fear losing their independence…
-
Debunking a Persistent Myth The notion that “your heirs inherit nothing with a reverse mortgage” is a pervasive inheritance myth that clouds the retirement planning of countless seniors. As a HECM and HUD-certified housing counselor, I’ve seen this misconception spark fear and hesitation, preventing retirees from exploring a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), a financial…
-
“I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” That’s how I feel every time I hear, “A reverse mortgage means signing your home over to the bank.” This myth persists as one of the most persistent and damaging misconceptions about reverse mortgage ownership, keeping countless seniors from exploring a tool…
-
As we get older, life can bring unexpected challenges. A reverse mortgage could become a powerful tool for financial stability for many seniors, helping to pay for in-home care, medical expenses, or simply provide peace of mind. If their capacity to make rational decisions has diminished, you may need to consider getting power of attorney…
-
The Ultimate Goal of Senior Independence The golden years should be a time of dignity, comfort, and continued autonomy. For most senior homeowners, the deepest desire is to maintain their independence and live life on their own terms. There’s often an unspoken promise, a heartfelt intention to never become a physical or financial burden on…
-
Today’s seniors often hold a significant portion of their wealth in their homes, a valuable but illiquid asset. Navigating the financial landscape of retirement is complex, and for many professionals who serve this population, understanding every available tool is a major challenge. The reverse mortgage—specifically, a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM)—is one such tool that…