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Reverse Mortgages and Younger Borrowers: Implications and Strategies

Reverse Mortgages and Younger Borrowers: Implications and Strategies

Reverse mortgages are almost always associated with retirees seeking to tap into their home equity to fund their golden years. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend of younger borrowers -- age 55 and up -- looking into reverse mortgages as a financial option. Here, we take a look at the possible implications of having a younger borrower on a reverse mortgage and provide insights into calculating and minimizing the impact of taking this path.

Implications of Younger Borrowers on Reverse Mortgages

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Because reverse mortgages are typically associated with older homeowners adding a younger borrower who is closer to age 55 to this type of loan can significantly impact the terms of the financial product. Reverse mortgages are structured based on the age of the youngest borrower, with older borrowers generally eligible for higher loan amounts. When a younger borrower is part of the equation, the possible loan amount is likely to be reduced, affecting the overall funds available to the homeowner.

Moreover, reverse mortgages are designed to be repaid when the last borrower permanently leaves the home, whether they move to a new location or pass away. With a younger borrower in the mix, this repayment event may be delayed, potentially resulting in an extended loan term. This situation could lead to accruing more interest over time, ultimately impacting the overall equity remaining in the home.

Calculating the Impact of a Younger Borrower

When contemplating a reverse mortgage with a younger borrower, it's essential to consider the potential impact on loan eligibility and terms. As noted, a younger borrower's longer life expectancy can lead to a reduced loan amount compared to a scenario with older borrowers.

It is also important to work with your reverse mortgage specialist to find loans that are an option for you if you intend to include a younger borrower on the application. Some of these loans may not be available to borrowers as young as 55.

If a potential option is found, however, ask your lender to calculate the potential impact on your available funds. He or she will be able to use the ages of all applicants, the value of the property, current interest rates, and other factors to provide an estimate of the available loan amount.

Strategies to Consider

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Credit: Ariel Skelley/Getty Images

If a reverse mortgage with a younger borrower is under consideration, there are strategies to minimize its potential impact:

Consider a Delayed Application: If the need for the reverse mortgage is not urgent, waiting until the younger borrower is well over 55 years of age to apply can result in a higher loan amount.

Maximize Home Value: Boosting the home's value through renovations or improvements can increase the potential loan amount, offsetting the impact of a younger borrower.

Spousal Protection: In cases where one spouse is significantly younger, consider exploring options that protect the non-borrowing spouse's interests in the event of the borrowing spouse's passing.

Lump Sum Payment: Opting for a lump sum payment at the beginning of the loan can help mitigate the impact of a younger borrower. This approach provides access to a larger amount upfront, which may offset the potential reduction due to the younger borrower's age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you'll find answers to some common questions about reverse mortgages. If you have additional questions, talk to your reverse mortgage expert.

Can a younger borrower be added to an existing reverse mortgage? Yes, as long as the existing borrower meets the eligibility criteria for the loan. However, adding a younger borrower may impact the loan terms and available funds.

What are the advantages of having a younger borrower on a reverse mortgage? While it may reduce the potential loan amount, having a younger borrower could extend the duration of the loan, providing more time to access funds without needing to make repayments.

Are there age restrictions for reverse mortgages with younger borrowers? As previously noted, lenders typically require the youngest borrower to be at least 55 years old to be eligible for a reverse mortgage.

Can a reverse mortgage be refinanced to account for a younger borrower's age? Yes, refinancing a reverse mortgage to include a younger borrower's age may be possible, but it's essential to carefully consider the implications and consult with a financial advisor.

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Credit: Boonchai Wedmakawand/Getty Images

In short, the inclusion of a younger borrower in a reverse mortgage requires careful consideration and professional assistance. By understanding the possible implications, calculating potential impacts, and exploring strategies to minimize adverse effects, borrowers can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals and circumstances.

Watermark Capital is here to help borrowers of all ages through the reverse mortgage process. Get started today!
If you would like to reach out to David for a complimentary consultation, call today at (866) 502-8339.  

Feature Image Credit: Hero Images Inc./Getty Images

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David Gittelson

David Gittelson

Reverse Mortgage Advisors David Gittelson (Reverse Mortgage Specialist NMLS 224312) started his career in the lending and finance industry in 2001 and has supported close to two billion in transactions through hundreds of trusted professionals. In the early 2000's David used Reverse Mortgages to support his client's cash management and retirement strategies in collaboration with the client’s tax and financial advisers and continues today with even better products and solutions to support trusted advisers whose clients are fifty-five years and older.

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