The Advantages and Disadvantages of a Reverse Mortgage
A reverse mortgage is a type of loan option designed especially for homeowners aged 62 and above to provide them a comfortable retirement. Though they are not required to make monthly payments to creditors, they are expected to pay their property taxes and other dues regularly. It involves various advantages and disadvantages and they are discussed in the following section. 1. Advantages of reverse mortgage The most important advantage of this type of mortgage is that homeowners can retain their ownership rights of their home and continue residing. Similarly, like any other mortgage, the debtors are expected to fulfill loan obligations and stay updated in terms of payment of property taxes, maintenance, any applicable homeowners’ association fees, and insurance. Secondly, debtors can choose any one or a combination of various options such as accessing a large sum of funds, or a steady flow of monthly advances for a fixed period. Debtors who opt for a fixed-rate mortgage will receive a single payment of a huge sum of money, whereas adjustable-rate debtors can enjoy other payment options. Thirdly, the funds obtained against the reverse mortgage loan can be used to pay an existing mortgage on the home of the debtor. While a lien on their home will still exist for the dues of this type of mortgage, debtors will not be required to pay the monthly charges of the principal and interest amount of the mortgage as long as they live in the home.