Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgage Interest Rates in California: What You Need to Know in 2024

If you’re considering a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) – also known as a reverse mortgage – you probably have a lot of questions, especially about interest rates. Understanding how these rates work is crucial because they impact how much you can borrow and how your loan balance grows over time. Meet Mary – A […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgage in California vs. HELOC: Which One is Better for Retirees?

Sarah and James, a retired couple in their early 70s, are sitting at their kitchen table, reviewing their finances. Their home is fully paid off, but they need extra funds to cover medical bills and home renovations. They’ve heard about home equity loans, HELOCs, and reverse mortgages—but they’re not sure which option makes the most […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

California Reverse Mortgage Myths: What’s True & What’s Not?

Maria, a retired teacher in California, has spent years in her beloved home. But with retirement around the corner, she’s starting to wonder about ways to make her life easier financially. Her neighbor, John, tells her, “You shouldn’t even think about a reverse mortgage. I heard the bank takes your house!” Now, Maria’s stressed, but […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Your Responsibilities as a Reverse Mortgage Loan Borrower in California

A reverse mortgage loan, specifically a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), allows California homeowners to access their home equity while remaining in their homes. However, as a borrower, you must meet certain requirements to avoid foreclosure and maintain your loan in good standing. Your Three Main Responsibilities: Pay Property Charges on Time – Ensure that […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Insurance on a Home With a Reverse Mortgage in California: Who Pays?

Many Californians aged 62 or older choose a reverse mortgage as a way to supplement their retirement income. A reverse mortgage allows homeowners to convert their home equity into cash, with the lender making payments to the borrower. The loan is typically repaid when the borrower moves out of the home or passes away, usually […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

How Reverse Mortgage Servicing Handles Occupancy Defaults in California

Reverse Mortgage Borrower’s Occupancy Requirements Understanding a borrower’s reverse mortgage occupancy requirements can be complex. As warmer weather approaches, it’s important to remember that many reverse mortgage borrowers, often referred to as “snowbirds,” migrate south to enjoy milder temperatures. All reverse mortgages have the condition that the borrower must live in the property as their […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgage Property Requirements in California (Updated 2025)

Reverse mortgages are often advertised as a simple way for seniors to access their home equity, but the reality can be more complex—especially when it comes to property requirements. If you’re considering a reverse mortgage in California, understanding the specific property qualifications is essential. Understanding Reverse Mortgage Property Requirements The exact requirements for a reverse […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

How to Use a Reverse Mortgage Repair Set-Aside in California

Reverse Mortgage for Home Repair | Repair Set-Asides to Assist If you or a loved one is considering a reverse mortgage in California and the home requires repairs, you may be wondering how those costs will be handled. The good news is that HUD guidelines allow for repair set-asides under certain conditions, making it possible […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Saving Money by Making Partial Prepayments on Your Reverse Mortgage in California

While keeping the same reverse mortgage on the same terms, you can reduce the interest you ultimately pay by adding extra dollars onto your monthly payment. Why Trust Us? Fact-Checked If you have a reverse mortgage in California and find yourself with extra cash—perhaps from an inheritance, a windfall, or increased financial stability—you might consider […]

Categories
Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgage Rates and Prepayment Options in California

Understanding Reverse Mortgage Interest Rates Fixed Rates If your reverse mortgage has a fixed rate, the interest rate in your contract will remain the same for the duration of your rate term. Common fixed-rate terms include 6-month, 1-year, 3-year, or 5-year fixed terms. This provides stability, ensuring your rate does not fluctuate. Variable Rates If […]