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Sally K. & David L. Hanson, WI Real Estate Agents - Luxury - Divorce  (EXP Realty 414-525-0563)

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Rainmaker
1,726,096
Sandy Padula & Norm Padula, JD, GRI
HomeSmart Realty West & Florida Realty Investments - , CA
Presence, Persistence & Perseverance

Anyone considering a Reverse Mortgage is required to attend a class to fully inform the prospective RM candidate of all the pitfalls. Any RM Lender should provide this person access to this information.

Feb 27, 2016 10:08 PM
Rainmaker
2,182,552
Michael J. Perry
KW Elite - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

Someone without heirs might as well live for TODAY !

Feb 27, 2016 10:25 PM
Rainmaker
1,543,983
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego

I have two pros I trust that specialize in reverse mortgages; want to offer your client one or boths' contact info?

Feb 27, 2016 10:28 PM
Rainmaker
556,536
Greg Cremia
Shore Realty of the Outer Banks - Nags Head, NC

If the situation fits the needs then have heirs or not should not matter.

Feb 27, 2016 10:09 PM
Rainmaker
1,231,853
Mary Yonkers
Alan Kells School of Real Estate/Howard Hanna Real Estate - Erie, PA
Erie/PA Real Estate Instructor

Whether someone has heirs or not is not criteria for RM or sale.

Find lender in their area as rules may be different

Feb 27, 2016 10:41 PM
Rainmaker
556,890
DEANNA C. SMITH CERTIFIED MOBILE NOTARY
Certified Mobile Notary Signing Agent - Smith Mountain Lake, VA
Highest Ranked Certified Mobile Notary in Virginia

There is a requirement that the person complete the Reverse Mortgage training program before it can be closed.   They should contact a trusted local lender to set this up under no obligation to proceed.   I just had a client decide NOT to do a Reverse Mortgage in a similar situation and is doing a cash-out refinance instead to draw the equity out now and make charitable donations while they are still here to enjoy the contribution process.

Feb 28, 2016 01:03 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

RM are a good idea....

...until plans change. Even then, the costs I observed were not unreasonable.

BE fully aware of occupancy rules. An extended medical stay or rehabilitation COULD become truly problematic for this population. There are work arounds, but you need to know the rules to win.

Feb 27, 2016 10:39 PM
Rainer
55,673
Joe D'Agostino
NMLS# 729950 - Manahawkin, NJ
Mortgage Officer 46 years!

As a  Mortgage Banker, I only do the FHA insured  REVERSE and REVERSE FOR PURCHASE mortgages. It is true that A Reverse may not be for everyone. The primary purpose is to "Use your home, to stay at home." Seniors must attend a counseling session and be issued a counseling certificate. In my 45 years of lending, I have seen many borrowers live a much more enjoyable life due to the Reverse. Yes, it is not for someone who is concerned about siblings, for a Reverse mortgage balances increase every year. In today's world the best product is where you receive a monthly income (called a tenure) and not a Lump Sum. This also helps reduce the balance due upon the death of those on title. I do Reverse in all 50 states as well as conventional deals.

Mar 02, 2016 12:55 PM
Rainmaker
5,868,689
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

My CPA has said this loan product is not good for all, and they should check in with their professional tax person!  

Feb 29, 2016 11:11 PM
Rainmaker
2,759,812
TeamCHI - Complete Home Inspections, Inc.
Complete Home Inspections, Inc. - Brentwood, TN
Home Inspectons - Nashville, TN area - 615.661.029

 this is an excellent question and I enjoyed reading some of the answers.

Feb 28, 2016 06:38 PM
Rainmaker
634,482
Kathleen Luiten
Resort and Second-Home Specialist - Princeville, HI
Kauai Luxury Ocean Home Sales

Reverse mortgages can be a good solution under the right circumstances, but this is an area where it's crucial to be well-informed before making the choice. Some RMs have terms that are onerous and not a good choice inder any circumstances.

Feb 28, 2016 04:58 PM
Rainmaker
4,319,419
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Andover, MA
Andover, MA: Andover Luxury Homes For Sale

Sally K. & David L. Hanson I'd prefer not to guide anyone in this matter. It's a personal choice, isn't it?

Feb 28, 2016 02:19 PM
Ambassador
3,164,294
Tammy Lankford,
Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA
Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

I have a terrible opinion, but if there are no heirs perhaps it's best.  I'd advise them to talk with a tax attorney and lender

Feb 28, 2016 01:40 PM
Rainer
223,831
LUXURYSOCALREALTY COMPASS La Jolla
Compass - La Jolla, CA
San Diego Partner - The Private Client Network

I agree with Sandy

Feb 28, 2016 12:23 PM
Rainmaker
1,090,922
Diana Zaccaro Broker Associate
ZOOM Realty Group - Cocoa Beach, FL
"The Accidental Blogger" Cocoa Beach, Florida

I understand where they are coming from...no heirs, own house free and clear, no plans to move, etc. but much more information would be needed to make a good assessment. RM are based on the age of the parties  and there is a cap on the maximum payout so he would not get 100%. The RM is a complicated product so he needs to speak with a couple different lenders who specialize in this then run the numbers before making a decision.

 

Feb 28, 2016 11:25 AM
Ambassador
3,727,873
Patricia Kennedy
RLAH@Properties - Washington, DC
Home in the Capital

It all depends on the terms and conditions of the mortgage.  Not having heirs probably makes a reverse mortgage more attractive.

Feb 28, 2016 10:16 AM
Rainmaker
3,988,007
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

If he needs the income to live and to be able to stay in his home and he wants to stay there it could be the right choice. 

Feb 28, 2016 08:43 AM
Rainmaker
3,986,258
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

My mom and dad did this without telling me....They lost a ton of money.

Now, for someone who has no heirs and are not inclined to donate a bunch, then it MAY be a good deal for them, but they need to talk to a could of lenders to get their thoughts

Feb 28, 2016 08:17 AM
Ambassador
2,161,148
Silvia Dukes PA, Broker Associate, CRS, CIPS, SRES
Tropic Shores Realty - Ich spreche Deutsch! - Spring Hill, FL
Florida Waterfront and Country Club Living

They need to make sure they understand what might happen if their health starts failing and they will have to move out of the into an assisted living arrangement. 

Feb 28, 2016 07:50 AM
Rainmaker
617,935
David Gibson CNE, 719-304-4684 ~ Colorado Springs Relocation
Colorado Real Estate Advisers LLC - Colorado Springs, CO
Relocation, Luxury & Lifestyle residential

At a minimum they need to talk to a couple of estate planners. Don’t let the cash cloud good judgement.

Feb 28, 2016 06:15 AM
Rainmaker
4,334,347
Lawrence "Larry" & Sheila Agranoff. Cell: 631-805-4400
The Top Team @ Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr, Plainview NY 11803 - Plainview, NY
Long Island Condo and Home Specialists

I didn't know the answer so I'm here to learn Sally...

Feb 28, 2016 05:41 AM
Rainer
321,564
Melissa Jackson REALTOR
Trinity Premier Properties - Azle, TX
Helping You Make The Right Move

Depends on their situation. Older with no family to "leave property" why not get a RM? They will have money that's tied up in the property to use for what ever they need/want.  My MIL's Mother did this about 12 -15 years ago.  She is now 92!  It's been useful she is still in the house. I have the paperwork and there are options for when she is gone or moves on.  If a homeowner needs/wants the $$ they should speak with a lender that is experienced with Reverse Mortgages.

Feb 28, 2016 04:31 AM
Rainmaker
4,800,082
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

I think even someone with no heirs should think very carefully before getting into a reverse mortgage. 

Feb 28, 2016 03:50 AM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

I agree with Greg on this one....

Feb 28, 2016 03:04 AM
Ambassador
6,393,609
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

I would suggest that they spend some time and money with a good financial adviser, many of these RM programs can be a little sketchy.

Feb 28, 2016 02:59 AM
Rainmaker
469,510
Dan & Laurie Pittsenbarger Team
Keller Williams Western Realty - Bellingham, WA
Lakeside & Coastal Single Family Homes

I guess I would answer "Maybe, lets get some help on the Reverse Mortgage question". I would call around and get a little info/education myself but mostly to make sure I thought the person was going to take good care of my client. Then give my client the contact info once I fould someone I trusted and liked. Like most other programs, RM's have their role and are great for some situations and not so good for others.

Feb 28, 2016 02:49 AM
Rainmaker
4,161,147
John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Sally K. & David L. Hanson Very good question.

Feb 28, 2016 02:49 AM
Rainmaker
900,278
Olga Simoncelli
Veritas Prime, LLC dba Veritas Prime Real Estate - New Fairfield, CT
CONSULTANT, Real Estate Services & Risk Management

This individual should seek financial/legal advice.

Feb 28, 2016 01:56 AM
Rainmaker
1,157,785
FN LN
Toronto, ON

If you are not educated in this area, do not advise.  Tell them to talk to an appropriate person.

Feb 28, 2016 01:17 AM
Ambassador
5,049,488
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

I know a lender but it sounds like you got some help - good luck

Feb 28, 2016 01:00 AM
Rainmaker
72,125
Darin Henderson
Holland Realty Services - Kirksville, MO
Guiding You Home

As an agent and not a lender I do have some insight on this.  Two prospective listing clients wanted to sell their home, however they were not in a good position after a reverse mortgage.  Both parties situations had changed significantly after taking out the reverse mortgage.  One did sell and the other stayed put.  I am sure a RM can be a great thing for some, I have just never met anyone that shared their story with me.

Feb 28, 2016 12:55 AM
Rainer
417,221
Caroline Gerardo
Licensed in 20 states - Newport Beach, CA
C. G. Barbeau the Loan Lady nmls 324982

Reverse does not leave money on the table. Owners/Borrowers of a reverse get to stay in house until they die and only pay taxes and insurance. Their will would pass on the equity to heirs. A reverse does not use 100% of the value. My answer- single story house, can be adapted to have safety rails in bathroom or upright walk in tub (thinking about when they are 90) this might make sense. If they become ill or need care will they have the money to hire help? What is age and general health?  

Downside of Reverse- is one of the most expensive mortgages. There may be other less expensive tools as rates are in the 3's...   

Feb 28, 2016 12:36 AM
Rainmaker
1,525,616
Sybil Campbell
Fernandina Beach, FL
Referral Agent Amelia Island Florida

If he is short on cash and has enough equity in his house, it is a good way for him to get cash back out of his house.

Feb 28, 2016 12:29 AM
Rainmaker
1,844,301
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

I'm not sure why having no heirs is a problem. Why lender bias? 

If anything it would be a straight forward type of thing as long as their was enough equity to use. I actually think it would be a good way to supplement their income. No heirs that complain their parents used up all 'their money'.

Feb 28, 2016 12:26 AM
Rainmaker
763,883
Tony Lewis
Summit Real Estate Group - Valencia, CA
Summit Real Estate Group Valencia & Aliso Viejo

No Heirs?  What better reason to spend your house.

Feb 28, 2016 12:14 AM
Rainmaker
911,448
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

I don't advise on this. It's become a specialty. I do know that all of the seniors I worked with who considered it, ended up choosing to sell, because most were facing assisted living in the near future. It's case by case as to which path is best for each owner. If it was me, I might sell, then rent a condo for a year or so, and look around at places to relocate.

Feb 28, 2016 12:03 AM
Rainmaker
4,936,727
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

I would have to say it is still a good thing to do.

Feb 27, 2016 11:58 PM
Ambassador
2,178,703
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Personally, I don't think the heirs should be taken into consideration for a decision like that.  Whatever is best for the homeowner is the best decision.   

Feb 27, 2016 11:44 PM
Rainmaker
7,836,442
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

I revere mortgage can be an excellent option for many seniors.

Feb 27, 2016 11:37 PM
Rainmaker
175,614
Spirit Messingham
Tierra Antigua Realty - Tucson, AZ
Third Generation Full-Time Realtor® 520 471-6900

I would recommend they speak with a lender you know and trust.  I have several local lenders I trust to do the right thing for the client, otherwise I would not recommend them.  Sometimes a reverse mortgage makes sense for a person.

Feb 27, 2016 11:37 PM
Rainmaker
4,572,595
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

I'd suggest a visit and consultation with his financial adviser.  

Feb 27, 2016 11:03 PM
Rainmaker
292,685
Jack Lewitz
Exit Strategy Realty - Evanston, IL

For someone who wants to stay in their home and has limited income and no heirs then I think a reverse mortgage is appropriate . Just remember you never get 100% of its current value . 

Feb 27, 2016 10:43 PM