A proprietary reverse mortgage is a specialized type of reverse mortgage designed for homeowners with higher-valued properties. Unlike the more common Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), which is backed by the federal government, proprietary reverse mortgages are offered by private lenders and are not subject to the same limitations on loan amounts. This article will explore the details of proprietary reverse mortgages, including their benefits, eligibility requirements, how they work, and their potential advantages and disadvantages.
What is a Proprietary Reverse Mortgage?
A proprietary reverse mortgage is a private loan option that allows homeowners to convert a portion of the equity in their home into loan proceeds. Unlike the federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), proprietary reverse mortgages are not regulated by the federal government, and they are typically offered to homeowners whose properties have a higher market value than the limits set by the HECM program.
These loans allow senior homeowners to access a larger loan amount based on the equity in their homes. The loan is repaid when the homeowner moves out of the home, sells it, or passes away. The homeowner is not required to make monthly mortgage payments; instead, the loan balance increases over time, with interest and fees being added to the loan principal.
How Does a Proprietary Reverse Mortgage Work?
Loan Amounts and Eligibility
The amount a homeowner can borrow with a proprietary reverse mortgage is determined by several factors:
- Home Value: The higher the value of the home, the more equity the homeowner can access. This makes proprietary reverse mortgages particularly beneficial for individuals with higher-value homes.
- Age of the Borrower: As with other types of reverse mortgages, the borrower’s age plays a significant role. The older the borrower, the more they may be eligible to borrow, as the lender anticipates a shorter repayment term.
- Interest Rates: Proprietary reverse mortgages typically have higher interest rates compared to HECM loans. The rates vary depending on the lender and loan terms, but they are important to consider when determining how much equity will be accessible.
- Location and Property Type: Some proprietary reverse mortgages are only available for certain property types or regions. Lenders will assess the property’s location and condition when determining eligibility.
Payment Options
Proprietary reverse mortgages offer several ways to access the loan proceeds. The available options typically include:
- Lump-Sum Payment: The homeowner receives a single, upfront payment based on the equity in their home.
- Monthly Payments: Homeowners can opt to receive monthly payments for a fixed period or for as long as they remain in the home.
- Line of Credit: Homeowners can access a line of credit, withdrawing funds as needed. This offers flexibility as funds can be accessed at any time.
- Combination: A combination of the above options can be used, allowing homeowners to receive monthly payments and a line of credit or lump-sum payment.
Repayment of the Loan
The loan must be repaid when one of the following occurs:
- The borrower sells the home.
- The borrower moves out of the home for a period of 12 consecutive months or more (e.g., in the case of moving to an assisted living facility).
- The borrower passes away.
Repayment of the loan typically occurs through the sale of the home. If the home sells for more than the loan balance, the remaining equity is left to the homeowner or their heirs. If the home sells for less than the loan balance, the lender absorbs the loss, as proprietary reverse mortgages are non-recourse loans, meaning the homeowner or their heirs are not responsible for paying the difference.
Benefits of a Proprietary Reverse Mortgage
Higher Loan Limits
The primary advantage of a proprietary reverse mortgage over a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is the ability to access a larger loan amount. Since proprietary reverse mortgages are not subject to the government’s loan limits, homeowners with higher-value properties can access more of their home’s equity. This is especially beneficial for individuals with luxury homes or homes in high-cost areas.
Flexibility
Proprietary reverse mortgages offer greater flexibility in terms of loan amounts and repayment options. The borrower can choose between a lump sum, monthly payments, or a line of credit, depending on their needs and financial situation. This allows for more customized solutions to fit the borrower’s lifestyle.
No Monthly Payments
Like other reverse mortgages, proprietary reverse mortgages do not require monthly payments. This can be a huge benefit for homeowners who need additional income in retirement but do not have the cash flow to make regular mortgage payments. The loan balance increases over time as interest and fees accrue, but the homeowner does not have to worry about making payments.
Non-Recourse Loan
Proprietary reverse mortgages are non-recourse loans, meaning the homeowner or their heirs are not personally liable for any remaining loan balance if the sale of the home does not cover the loan amount. This provides peace of mind, knowing that the loan will not result in a financial burden for the borrower or their family.
Drawbacks of Proprietary Reverse Mortgages
Higher Fees and Costs
Proprietary reverse mortgages often come with higher fees and interest rates compared to HECM loans. These costs can reduce the amount of equity the homeowner can access, and over time, they can add up significantly. It is important for homeowners to weigh these costs against the benefits of accessing more equity.
Limited Availability
Proprietary reverse mortgages are not as widely available as HECMs. They are offered by a limited number of private lenders, and not all homeowners may qualify. Additionally, the types of properties eligible for these loans may be more restrictive than those eligible for HECMs.
Risk of Reduced Inheritance
Because a proprietary reverse mortgage reduces the equity in the home over time, it may leave less inheritance for the homeowner’s heirs. If the loan balance exceeds the home’s value when it is sold, the heirs will not receive anything from the sale of the home. This is an important consideration for individuals who want to leave an inheritance to their family members.
Complexity
Proprietary reverse mortgages can be more complicated than HECM loans, as they involve private lenders with varying terms and conditions. Homeowners may find it difficult to understand the full range of options and costs involved. It is important to work with a qualified financial advisor to ensure the loan is a good fit for their needs.
How to Apply for a Proprietary Reverse Mortgage
Applying for a proprietary reverse mortgage involves several steps:
- Consultation: Speak with a lender who offers proprietary reverse mortgages to discuss eligibility requirements and loan options.
- Application: Submit an application that includes information about your property, income, and other financial details.
- Home Appraisal: A home appraisal will be conducted to determine the current value of the property.
- Counseling: While HECM loans require mandatory counseling, proprietary reverse mortgages may not have the same requirement. However, it is still recommended to seek independent advice to understand the loan’s implications.
- Approval and Funding: Once approved, the loan will be funded, and the homeowner can begin accessing their equity.
Conclusion
A proprietary reverse mortgage is a useful tool for senior homeowners with higher-value properties who want to access more equity than a standard Home Equity Conversion Mortgage allows. While these loans offer larger loan amounts, more flexible repayment options, and the benefit of not requiring monthly payments, they also come with higher costs, limited availability, and potential downsides for heirs.
As with any financial product, it is important to carefully evaluate whether a proprietary reverse mortgage is the right choice for your situation. Homeowners should consider consulting a financial advisor or reverse mortgage counselor to fully understand the benefits and risks before moving forward.