Reverse mortgages are a type of loan that allows homeowners 62 and older to access the equity in their homes without having to make monthly payments. The loan is repaid when the borrower dies, sells the home, or moves out permanently.
While there are no monthly payments required for a reverse mortgage, there are still some ways that a homeowner can lose their home to the loan. Here are a few examples:
- Defaulting on the loan. This can happen if the borrower fails to make property tax or homeowners insurance payments, fails to live in the home as their primary residence, or otherwise breaches the terms of the loan.
- Abandoning the home. If the borrower moves out of the home for more than 12 consecutive months, the lender may consider the home abandoned and foreclose on the loan.
- Failing to maintain the home. If the borrower fails to maintain the home, the lender may foreclose on the loan to protect their investment.
- Selling the home without repaying the loan. If the borrower sells the home, they must repay the loan balance in full. If they are unable to do so, the lender may foreclose on the loan.
It is important to note that reverse mortgages are not a get-rich-quick scheme. They are a loan, and like any loan, there are risks involved. If you are considering a reverse mortgage, it is important to understand the terms of the loan and the risks involved before you sign any paperwork.
Here are some tips to help you avoid losing your home to a reverse mortgage:
- Make sure you understand the terms of the loan before you sign it.
- Make all of your payments on time.
- Maintain your home.
- Live in your home as your primary residence.
- Do not sell your home without repaying the loan.
- Do not move out of your home permanently.
If you are facing financial difficulties, it is important to talk to your lender as soon as possible. The lender may be able to work with you to modify your loan or to provide other assistance.