Do Reverse Mortgages Deserve Their Bad Reputation?

Reverse Mortgages have gotten a bad rap, but why?

Prior to regulation, consumers didn’t have the protections they enjoy today. Fortunately, Reverse Mortgage products have changed dramatically over the years to the benefit of the consumer.

From 1961-1987, Reverse Mortgages in the United States were not regulated. Small banks and insurance companies financed reverse mortgage loans and each product was different. Moreover, products of the past did not offer the protections available to today’s consumers.

In 1988, Ronald Reagan signed a bill into law which changed the way Reverse Mortgage products work, providing many protections for today’s consumer that weren’t in place prior to regulation. The first FHA insured reverse mortgage loan was originated in 1989. Since then, HUD (the Federal Government’s Department of Housing and Urban Development) regulates and oversees the Reverse Mortgage industry and the FHA (Federal Housing Administration) insures Reverse Mortgage loans. These programs provide the guarantees and security retirees desire when deciding on a Reverse Mortgage, including maintaining ownership of the home.

Now, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can improve your retirement while also leaving the remaining equity to your heirs. If providing a legacy is on your mind we can help.

Check out our Myths Vs Facts page to learn more about common misconceptions

Watch this video to learn more about the safety of a Reverse Mortgage

Please feel free to contact us anytime with questions.