For many years the Reverse loan had a image problem and prior to them being placed under the auspices of HUD and FHA, they were quite terrible.   Generally the client had to buy an annuity with the funds they received and also share their equity with the “lender” and thus the terrible reputation of the loan was created.

But that is no longer true and hasn’t been the case for many years, however the image continues to linger and quite often there is a credibility problem that professionals such as myself, have to address with a potential client in regards to “what they have heard” about Reverse loans.

None of us like to be “sold” anything and we certainly need to feel comfortable with our decision when it involves something as serious as a mortgage.  And due to the confusing aspects of the loan it makes it quite challenging to explain it to someone that is considering using the option, because they may need additional funds for cost of living expenses, home improvement or leveraging a retirement saving   ( and did I say?), unplanned medical expenses.

See what my clients are saying!

And there is high percentage of seniors that are carrying a mortgage burden and making mortgage payments each month on what may now be a “fixed income” and are no longer employed and might be drawing down on their retirement fund  each month to pay this ongoing obligation.

The question for those of us in the industry, is how to best address the fears and concerns about the loan and also to transcend the mistrust and doubt as to whether or not they are some sort of scam.   A scam to take over the borrower’s home and then “kick them out”.

This conversation will continue in a following post.

Stayed “tuned”.