Reverse Mortgage Eligibility Requirements
Reverse mortgages allow older borrowers to access home equity and forgo monthly mortgage payments. While these loans can be useful in many situations, they aren’t for everyone. In addition to determining that a reverse mortgage makes economic sense, before pursuing a reverse mortgage, borrowers need to meet the following requirements.Borrowers Meet the Minimum Age Requirement
To qualify for an FHA-approved reverse mortgage, borrowers must be 62 years or older (proprietary mortgage product age requirements can vary). Spouses who wish to be on the loan as co-borrowers must also meet the age requirement of the loan. Spouses who do not meet the age requirement may live in the home but can’t share the mortgage.
The Home Is the Borrower’s Primary (or Principal) Residence
A borrower can only take out a reverse mortgage on a home they own and live in for the majority of the year. If the borrower leaves the home for more than six consecutive months for a non-medical issue or 12 consecutive months for a medical issue, the loan will become due.
Borrowers Can Meet Monthly Financial Obligations
Though reverse mortgages do not have monthly mortgage payments, borrowers retain other financial obligations associated with homeownership, including property taxes, homeowner association (HOA) fees, and property insurance. Depending on the loan terms, borrowers may also be responsible for mortgage insurance premiums and origination fees.
As part of the application for a reverse mortgage, borrowers will undergo a financial assessment, which will help determine their ability to meet the terms of their loan.
The Property Qualifies for a Reverse Mortgage
Only certain types of properties qualify for a reverse mortgage. Mobile homes, co-ops, and multifamily homes with more than four units will not qualify. The following types of homes can be eligible:
- Single-family homes.
- Multifamily homes. To qualify, a multifamily home must have four or fewer units, and one of them must be occupied by the applicant.
- Condominiums. To be eligible, the condo must be Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-approved.
- Manufactured homes. FHA- and HUD-approved manufactured homes built after 1969 will qualify. A manufactured home must fulfill several unique requirements to be eligible for a reverse mortgage.
- Farms on agricultural land. A farm could qualify depending on the land’s acreage and the home’s value. However, if the property generates any profit, it will not be eligible.
