Thousands of older Americans reach out to the banks and request a reverse mortgage each year. Many times it's to help secure their retirement and quality of life. But can you also use a reverse mortgage for home remodel?
How A Reverse Mortgage Works
A reverse mortgage is similar to conventional loans but is also different in some senses. For example, unlike a conventional mortgage, which requires regular monthly payments, a reverse mortgage does not. Instead, it tallies interest on the borrowed amount with no payment due until the borrower passes away. At that time, the value of the home is used to pay off the existing balance with the remainder being allocated to the heirs
Fund Distribution Options
A reverse mortgage allows borrowers to tap into the equity in their home and leverage it. It's kind of like pulling money out in a HELOC loan, but devoid of the monthly payment. A common question about reverse mortgages includes: what are my fund distribution options and how can I use the funds?
You have several distribution options. You can get monthly distributions; you can opt for a lump sum; or you can opt for a line of credit. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau provides further input on the variety of distribution options that you have.
Using The Funds
Contrary to what some might believe, you can use the funds from your reverse mortgage in any way that you see fit. Whether that's to remodel your home, take a vacation, pay off old debt, buy a new car, or what have you, it's your decision. It is, after all, your money. You are merely financing the equity that you have leveraged in your home after years of paying into it so that you can enjoy using it now as you see fit.
Making The Decision
You should take your time when making a decision about whether or not to get a reverse mortgage. A home refinance is a big decision. You should understand that you will still be paying standard closing costs, finance charges and other fees as well as an annual interest rate on the monies borrowed. After taking these factors into account, you can determine if this decision is in your best interest.