Reverse Mortgage Scams

Reverse mortgages scams are on the rise. Reverse mortgages are becoming more popular with seniors who are looking to supplement their retirement income. With the popularity gaining, more and more people are trying to cash in on the lack of knowledge of seniors and rob them of their money. There are many cases of reverse mortgage scams or frauds. These scams can have a devastating effect on a person's retirement since a house is typically your largest asset. These scams can cost you thousands of dollars in home equity. The biggest way to fight against this rise in reverse mortgage scams is to educate yourself about reverse mortgages.

You don't have to pay for information.

You can get all the information you need about reverse mortgages free from HUD. Some companies are charging thousands of dollars for this information. Typically these companies add on the charge for this information as part of an estate planning program.

Don't use a reverse mortgage to pay for other products.

If a company is trying to sell you a product and suggests that you use a reverse mortgage to finance it - RUN! Many companies selling annuities or other insurance products do this. These companies are getting paid on the reverse mortgage and the insurance products. The reverse mortgage scam is not that it's a bad idea, it's just used in the wrong way. When you add up the fees associated with both products, you are paying way too much.

Beware of high fees.

Some lenders will prey on seniors' lack of knowledge and include high fees and unnecessary terms in the contract. There are some terms included that could cost thousands of dollars in equity with no benefit for the additional cost.

How can you protect yourself from reverse mortgage scams?

1. Take advantage of HUD counseling. Almost all reverse mortgage contracts will require counseling. Beware if you are told you don't need it. HUD counselors will help you determine whether a reverse mortgage is a good option for you.

2. Shop around. Get several offers from different reverse mortgage lenders and compare for your best deal.

3. Make sure you understand your reverse mortgage contract thoroughly. You cannot afford to make a mistake - it could cost you your retirement. Your reverse mortgage counselor is there to help you.

Get information about buying and selling homes, different mortgage types and other real estate information at Real Estate - Get In The Know.

Dangers of Reverse Mortgage - Reverse Mortgages Could Be Costly

As baby boomers get older and start thinking about how to finance their retirement, reverse mortgages are becoming more popular. For people over the age of 62 who have 75% equity in their home, a reverse mortgage can be a good way to get tax-free income that doesn't have to be repaid. But along with every good thing comes some bad and there are some dangers of reverse mortgages that you should be aware of. Although they are a good opportunity for most of those who qualify, you just want to make sure you are fully informed about all the options.

A reverse mortgage allows seniors to use the equity in their home and receive tax-free income without having to give up ownership, or make a monthly payment. The money that is received is paid back when the home is sold, usually after the owners have died or moved into other living arrangements. The amount of money received depends mainly on your age, how much the house is worth, the interest rate, and the current mortgage balance, if any.

You can receive the money basically three different ways: a lump sum payment, fixed monthly payments, or a line of credit that can be accessed whenever needed. There are dangers of reverse mortgages associated with each of these options. Stay away from these reverse mortgage pitfalls.

A lump sum payment
When you receive a lump sum payment you need to be a good steward of your money so that it will not run out.

Fixed monthly payments
Fixed monthly payments are good because you know the exact amount of money you'll be receiving each month. The dangers of fixed monthly payments for reverse mortgages is that inflation is not taken into account. The first payment amount is the same as the last payment amount whether the payments last two years, 10 years or 20 years.

Line of credit
As with the lump sum payment, a line of credit is exhaustible. Once you've reach the limit, there is no more money available unless you refinance.

Another danger of reverse mortgages is in the terms of the contract. Some of these contracts can be very confusing, it is highly recommended to get counseling before entering in to this type of loan.