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    grandma215's Avatar
    grandma215 Posts: 33, Reputation: 2
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    #1

    May 12, 2009, 01:06 PM
    Is reverse mortgages a good thing or not?
    My husband's health is not good and he is no longer able to work or discuss finances. Our house is paid for but it in great need of work and our bill total more than our social security checks. I was considering a reverse mortgage but have been told it is a bad choice. Do anyone know anything about it or had any experience with one? I need help.
    sandkicker's Avatar
    sandkicker Posts: 43, Reputation: 3
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    #2

    Jun 10, 2009, 12:40 PM

    A Reverse Mortgage in and of itself is neither good nor bad. If a Reverse solves your problem, then it's good, if not, then it's not so good. There are lots of fallacies about Reverse Mortgages and some TV "talking heads" are just plain wrong about them.

    IF you can answer "yes" to all the following questions, then a Reverse Mortgage maybe a good thing. By the way, I do not lend in GA (only NJ) so what you do is of no benefit to me.
    1) Are you both 62 or older.
    2) Are you planning to live in this home as your primary residence for at least 3 years, preferably 5?

    The "proceeds" of a Reverse Mortgage depend on the age of the youngest borrower. For a rough approximation, you can use 50% of the home's value. If the home needs major repairs, this may impact your benefits.

    I would advise that you contact a Reverse Mortgage Counsellor (NOT AT REVERSE MORTGAGE LENDER OR BROKER). They can help you with this decision. Many counsellors charge for their services, with a legally mandated limit of $125. Some will do it for free. Many will defer payment of the counselling fee until loan close, and if the loan does not close, you will not be held liable for the fee. This counselling is Federally mandated. If you decide to get a Reverse Mortgage, you will have fulfilled this requirement.
    HECM Resources: Counselor State Information

    The topic and decision process requires more information and discussion than can be done in this forum.
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