Lucy Vasconcelos

Reverse Mortgages

If you’re a homeowner over the age of 55 and want to tap into your home equity, a reverse mortgage can be the right solution for you. A reverse mortgage is also known as an “equity release”. With a reverse mortgage, you can access up to 55% of the equity in your home tax-free as a lump sum or monthly cash deposits. The maximum amount you are able to borrow will depend on your age, your home’s appraised value, and our lender. No mortgage payments are required and you maintain ownership of your home. Repayment of the loan and interest is only required once you move or sell the home. At the end of your loan term, you may have less equity in your home. If you don’t make any payments, which is fine, you may have a larger interest payment to make when the home is sold.

A lender will often ask you to consult a lawyer prior to giving you a reverse mortgage to ensure you understand the conditions of the mortgage. The lender can never force you to sell your home to repay the reverse mortgage. It is also important to note that all existing loans on the property, including a mortgage or a home equity line of credit must be paid off prior to getting the mortgage.

Whether you’re looking for a financial cushion to live comfortably, funds to cover monthly expenses, pay off debt, renovate or fund your children’s education, you can use the funds from a reverse mortgage in any way you want without restrictions! What’s more, is if the home goes up in value, it doesn’t affect the reverse mortgage, meaning that all equity gained is yours! Lastly, you can get out of a reverse mortgage at any time by paying off the loan and any interest accrued.

Have a discussion with your mortgage professional to find out if a reverse mortgage is the right solution for you.