Retirement is a fantastic period to anticipate. It is a time when you do not have to wake up to intense, round-the-clock schedules; a time to spend with your buddies holidaying in several top tourist destinations; a time to start that long-awaited business; and many more. However, financial distress can hinder retirees from making their dreams come true.
Nevertheless, I will show you in this guide how you can financially secure your retirement with the aid of a reverse mortgage. You no longer have to worry about how to make ends meet once you tender that retirement letter to your employer. I will also explain the nitty-gritty of this incredible loan option.
What Is A Reverse Mortgage?
To many, this may be your first time of hearing this term, and you may be wondering, “What the heck is a reverse mortgage?” A reverse mortgage is a debt instrument that helps finance your needs after retirement. For you to have access to this loan, you need to have a home as a permanent place of residence – this is where you live permanently. Another factor is that you should be of age 62 years and above. Once these requirements are in place, you are good to go.
How Does Reverse Mortgage Work?
“How do I repay the loan?” you may ask. Unlike the regular mortgage when homeowners make monthly repayments, a reverse mortgage comes with more flexibility. To begin with, you have the freedom to make payment at any time or even defer it to the end of the loan term. A reverse mortgage creates an additional stream of income for you to accomplish post-retirement goals without breaking a bank.
This fund is a portion of your home’s total equity. According to federal laws, you cannot borrow the entire value of your home. As long as you reside in your building, the loan deferment remains open – not until you decide to vacate the residence; this gives you more leverage than a regular mortgagor.
Don’t Get Overly Excited – There’s More to It!
Although a reverse mortgage may look eye-catching, I would strongly advise that you read between the lines. Remember, loans come with interest, which a borrower would have to pay as well. Inasmuch as you can defer your loan repayment, there is a long term in place. Failure to meet up with the entire loan at the end of this mortgage term would lead to a foreclosure. In order words, the lender will sell the home to cover the mortgage. For this reason, take a reverse home loan when deemed necessary and only if you are sure of repaying it. Work with your lender to get the exact amount of loan you can access; this involves the use of a reverse loan calculator and your home peculiarities (age, condition, and location).
How Can I Access My Funds?
Once you’ve dotted your I’s and crossed the T’s, your loan will become accessible. You can decide whatever means to receive payments. To have more control over your monthly plans, you can set up monthly payments – consider this your monthly paychecks. Another option is to set a line of credit when you can access the funds when needed. However, if you have tons of activities that require financing, then taking a lump sum from the loan would be ideal. That way, you can accomplish several tasks at once.