Matt Boytz
August 8, 2025
If you’re 62 or older and need extra cash for home improvements, medical expenses, or just to enjoy retirement, you have more than one option. We offer HUD and FHA-backed reverse mortgages, as well as simple refinancing and HELOC programs designed for seniors who want to use their home’s equity without unnecessary stress.
Reverse Mortgage: How It Works
A reverse mortgage is like a traditional mortgage flipped around. Instead of making monthly payments, the interest is added to your loan balance over time.
Here’s the basic flow:
- No monthly payments required you keep living in your home payment-free.
- Interest is added to the balance instead of you paying it each month.
- You’re not required to make payments, but you can choose to pay down your balance at any time to help protect your equity.
- You can even purchase a new home with a reverse mortgage if you want to relocate without taking on a monthly payment.
- When you decide to sell or refinance, the reverse mortgage is paid off from the sale proceeds or your new loan.
These loans are HUD and FHA-backed, giving you important consumer protections, but they do come with additional fees set by HUD. That’s the trade-off for having the security and flexibility a reverse mortgage provides.
Why Seniors Choose a Reverse Mortgage
- Eliminate monthly mortgage payments and free up your cash flow.
- Access home equity without selling your home.
- Option to buy a new home using a reverse mortgage.
- Flexible payout options lump sum, monthly installments, or a line of credit.
- Ability to make voluntary payments to keep more of your home’s equity.
- Stay in your home as long as you keep up with property taxes, insurance, and upkeep.
Other Options for Seniors Who Want Cash
A reverse mortgage isn’t the only way to tap into your equity. At Bend Mortgage Brokers, we also offer:
1. Easy Refinancing
If you still owe on your mortgage, refinancing into a lower rate or longer term can free up cash and reduce your monthly expenses. You can also do a cash out refinance and pull equity from the house to pay off other debts or just refill your savings account
2. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)
Our HELOC programs are fast and flexible — often closing in just days. You can borrow only what you need, pay interest on that amount, perfect for ongoing projects or expenses.
Choosing What’s Right for You
A reverse mortgage offers the comfort of a payment-free lifestyle, but if you’d rather avoid HUD fees and still want access to equity, refinancing or a HELOC might make more sense.
Bottom line:
- Want no monthly payments and long-term flexibility? Reverse mortgage could be right for you.
- Want lower fees and control over repayment? Refinance or HELOC might be the better fit.
Reverse Mortgage FAQ’s
Are reverse mortgages government-insured?
Yes. The most common reverse mortgage, the FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), is backed by HUD and FHA, providing important consumer protections.
Can I use a reverse mortgage to buy a new home?
Yes. Through the FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM for Purchase), seniors aged 62 and older can buy a new home and finance it using equity, without monthly mortgage payments. You will still need to cover upfront mortgage insurance and closing fees.
What are the repayment requirements of a reverse mortgage?
You don’t make monthly payments. Instead, interest and fees are added to your principal. The loan becomes due when you sell, move out, or pass away, and is usually paid from the sale proceeds or refinance.
What requirements do I need to qualify for a reverse mortgage?
To qualify, you must be at least 62 years old, own your home, and have sufficient equity. Lenders will also perform a financial assessment to ensure you can afford ongoing costs like property taxes and insurance.
What happens to my home and heirs after I’m gone?
When the loan matures, your home is typically sold to repay the loan balance. Because HECMs are non-recourse loans, heirs are not responsible for any balance beyond the home’s sale value.
Let’s Talk About Your Options
We specialize in helping Oregon, Washington, and Colorado seniors choose the right loan for their needs whether it’s a reverse mortgage, HELOC, refinance, or buying a home with a reverse mortgage.
📞 Call us at 541-729-1975 or email me at Chandler@BendMortgageBrokers.com
