Like any other financial transaction, getting a reverse mortgage involves a number of steps designed to protect both you and the lender.
Here are the steps you can expect to go through when you apply through the Financial Freedom reverse mortgage program:
We safeguard your personal information. View our Privacy Policy.
|
1. |
Initial Discussion |
|
|
The first thing we like to do is talk to you, either over the phone or in person, about whether a reverse mortgage is right for you. We talk about the pros and cons of the program, how it works, how much money you might receive and anything else you'd like to know about. Then you decide whether you want to take the next step. |
|
2. |
Counseling |
|
| |
If you decide that a reverse mortgage is the right choice, you receive independent counseling from a certified, HUD-approved counselor to make sure that you have had all your questions answered and that there's been no confusion. It's a protection device that the government has built into the process of obtaining a reverse mortgage. |
|
3. |
Appraisal |
|
|
Then we help you arrange for an appraisal to determine the objective market value of your home, and whether any repairs will be required to meet Federal Housing Administration guidelines. |
|
4. |
Inspection |
|
|
In many cases an inspection is required to make sure that the home is structurally sound and that there's no extensive termite or dry rot damage. |
|
5. |
Underwriting |
|
| |
After the appraisal and inspection reports are completed we go through all the normal processing procedures that you might find in any mortgage. |
|
6. |
Closing |
|
| |
The final step of the program is the closing where you receive the money, or proceeds, from your reverse mortgage. You can choose to receive the payment in one of three ways: as a lump sum, as a monthly payment or as a line of credit.
Then it's up to you: pay bills, fix up the house, help a family member, or use the money to enjoy your life. |