Understanding the Reverse Mortgage and How to Use It to Tap into Home Equity

There are a variety of mortgage products out there that serve the needs of different homeowners, but it can be hard to know what will work best for you. If you happen to be close to retirement and are looking at options that may be more financially beneficial for you, here are the details on a reverse mortgage and how this product can work for you.

The Details On A Reverse Mortgage

The reverse mortgage was created in 2009 as the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (HECM) following the 2008 recession. While this type of mortgage is only available to homeowners who are 62 or older, it offers a way for people to tap into the equity of their home so that they are not required to pay monthly mortgage payments. There are limitations imposed on this product, but this can be useful, as long as all risks and terms of the mortgage are understood.

What’s Required To Apply?

In order to utilize this mortgage product, the homeowner must have paid off their property entirely or have a significant amount of equity in their current home. As people who want to use a reverse mortgage will have to go through a credit check, they will have to be able to prove that they have the ability to pay for all the fees associated with home ownership. This can include common expenses like insurance, property tax and any other applicable charges that come with a monthly mortgage payment.

How You Can Use It

A reverse mortgage can be confusing to understand.  It is intended for those who want to receive monthly payments, get a lump sum payment from their equity or even access a line of credit, or just as a means of tapping into additional funds.  This means that the overall loan balance of the mortgage will increase over time due to interest.  Also, insurance may not be paid consistently.  The reverse mortgage assumes that these expenses will be taken care of once the owner has passed away and the property can be sold or the loan balance is paid by heirs.

A reverse mortgage can be a beneficial product for homeowners nearing retirement, but it’s important to be aware of the associated costs and risks involved to determine if this product is beneficial for you.  For more information, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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7534 W Jones Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85043

$625,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777957

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Better than new home, two years old and highly upgraded including an extended RV garage(gives at least 4 parking spots)!!! Perfect for boats,cars, RV, weight room, workshop, golf simulator, Basketball court, whatever fits your lifestyle! Fabulous split, open floorplan that includes double door den, large great room and dining area. and a powder room and plank tile laid in the upgraded herringbone pattern throughout living area. Gourmet kitchen w/ large island and breakfast bar, SS appliances including gas cooktop, double wall ovens, granite countertops, backsplash and huge walk in pantry plus a ''butlers pantry area'' w/ desk and more storage!! Primary suite offers a luxurious, oversized, tiled walk in shower, separate water closet, walk in closet, double sinks. Guest Rooms share a bath w/ private shower area and double sinks! Beautifully landscaped backyard w/ firepit, artificial turf, covered patio and garden bed. Close access to the new 202 south, too

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3953 W Salter Drive Glendale, AZ 85308

$625,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

3,863 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777770

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this gorgeous 5-bed, 5.5-bath home with an above ground SWIMMING POOL, convenient BASEMENT, GUEST QUARTERS, NEW AC units and thoughtful design throughout! Inviting ambiance in the spacious great room, where plush carpet, upscale ceiling fans, recessed lighting, and thick baseboards create an elegant and cozy feel. The kitchen is a chef's dream, comes complete with abundant cabinetry topped with crown moulding, granite counters, a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and a center island. Romantic primary retreat boasts outdoor access, double door entry, and an ensuite comprised of two vanities, soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. HUGE family room in the basement is perfect for entertaining, movie nights, or a game room. Serene backyard provides a covered patio, pavers, and a storage shed. This beauty will sell fast!

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18961 N 259th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,009 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779380

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

If you've been considering a 55+ active adult community in Arizona, and Sun City Festival is on your list for all it's fantastic amenities, then you will want to see this gorgeous and upgraded 3 bed 2 bath home that has views upon views as it backs to the White Mountains preserve looking east. Stylish and modern upgrades to the large chef's kitchen, flooring, and much more make this is a home that is truly turn-key. Whether as a second home or your year-round residence, this home has the style and finishes you deserve. Also, the leased solar helps lower your electric bills substantially. Imagine yourself sitting on the patio and taking in the beautiful open land and mountain views backed by that gorgeous Arizona sky. Your new home awaits!

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2937 N 16th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85015

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777847

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!!! Welcome to this stunning move-in-ready home in the highly sought after North Encanto Historic District, completely transformed from top to bottom. It features a newer roof, AC, brand new sub & main electrical panel, LVP flooring, updated electrical, plumbing, and modernized kitchen and baths. While upgraded, it retains charming historic features like a large brick fireplace and a vintage outdoor grill. The reconfigured floor plan includes a primary suite with an ensuite bath. Outside, the front yard has lush grass, and the backyard offers low-maintenance turf. The oversized two-car garage with built-in cabinets provides ample storage. Located on a quiet street, this home blends historic charm with modern living.

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7658 E Vista Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,236 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781032

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Step into this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, complete with a versatile bonus room that's perfect for a home office or guest space, featuring a convenient Murphy bed. The kitchen boasts sleek quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances, creating a modern, functional space for any chef. Throughout the home, you'll find elegant plantation shutters, vaulted ceilings, and walk-in closets, providing ample storage. The resort-style front patio, with non-skid tile, and a spacious back patio overlook lush green common areas shaded by mature trees, with a pathway leading to the community pool. Conveniently located near shopping and dining. This gem won't last long!

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19151 W Coolidge Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$625,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,649 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781424

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Come and see this beautiful home with a Next Gen Suite and a plethora of upgrades!! This home has an extra living space that includes its own Bedroom, Bathroom, Laundry Area that comes with a washer and dryer attached garage, Kitchen and dining/living room area!! This extra living space is perfect for family and friends! The main living quarters has 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and a big kitchen ready to host all of your events! Enjoy the low maintenance backyard with beautiful green turf and plants making it a great area to relax while enjoying the White Tank Mountain views to the west!

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25451 N 164th Drive Surprise, AZ 85387

$625,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

3,021 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781462

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in Surprise, AZ! This nearly brand-new 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom home, built in 2022, offers a spacious open-concept layout perfect for families and entertaining. The **gourmet kitchen** features a gas cooktop, abundant cabinetry, and a large island with pendant lighting. The **primary suite** is a true retreat with a spa-like bathroom and walk-in shower. Upgrades include an **enhanced sound system** and a **remodeled backyard** with custom pavers, desert landscaping, and a gas stub for grilling. Conveniently located near the 303 Freeway, this home offers the ideal blend of luxury and comfort. Don't miss out!

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7585 W Tumblewood Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$625,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,444 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782727

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this 5 bedroom 2 bath house with a fantastic floor plan and located in a very desirable community! Equipped with a relaxing pool, great yard and RV Gate. Situated in a corner lot right next to a grass park. This home is nestled wonderfully to enjoy all of the amenities from shops, entertaining and dining that P83 has to offer. Schedule your showing today.

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3918 E Wildhorse Drive Gilbert, AZ 85297

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,019 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784693

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ideally located on a nice-sized, interior homesite in the highly desirable San Tan Ranch community, this wonderful, well-maintained Gilbert home offers 4 bedrooms; 3 car garage; spacious dining/living areas; vaulted ceilings; open floor plan; beautiful cabinetry; main suite with separate tub/shower, dual sinks, walk-in closet, and exit to covered patio; and resort-style rear yard perfect for relaxing/entertaining with an amazing pool, rock waterfall, and stacked stone built-in BBQ! Approximately $50K in recent updates/upgrades (travertine patio/pool deck, outdoor cooking area, kitchen appliances, wood look flooring, 5 Ton 14 SEER HVAC system, tankless water heater, etc.). Convenient freeway access and close to shopping, dining, sport courts, parks, playgrounds, and more. Move-in ready!

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5554 S Hawthorn Street Gilbert, AZ 85298

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,917 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6762890

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully home, where luxury meets comfort in a resort-like setting. The expansive backyard features a private heated pool complete with serene waterfalls and a relaxing hot tub—perfect for unwinding or entertaining. Inside, you'll find an array of incredible upgrades, including elegant 20'' tile flooring, plantation shutters, and stylish ceiling fans throughout. The front & back security doors invite in refreshing breezes, enhancing your outdoor living experience. Step out onto the large patio equipped with sunshades, offering breathtaking views of the San Tan Mountains. The low-maintenance artificial grass adds a touch of greenery without the hassle. ((CONTINUED)) The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting staggered 42 maple cabinets, gorgeous granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a spacious kitchen island for all your culinary creations. Need a quiet workspace? The office features built-in maple cabinetry and a cozy window seat, providing both functionality and charm. Plus, the garage has been upgraded with insulation and a mini-split AC unit for added comfort. Roof, landscaping and pool heater have been upgraded in the last 2 years. This home is ready for it's next owner!

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5055 S Clancy -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,142 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766078

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a 3-car garage located in the highly sought-after Keighley Place subdivision of Mesa. Move-in ready and filled with upgrades, this home welcomes you with an oversized living room and formal dining space. The remodeled kitchen boasts granite countertops, refinished cabinets, a stainless steel sink and appliances, new fixtures, and a custom pantry door. The open-concept family room features a charming wood accent wall and offers easy access to the resort-style backyard, complete with a travertine patio, heated pool, lush landscaping, a built-in gas firepit, and a BBQ island, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The primary suite is a retreat of its own, featuring hardwood floors, an oversized walk-in shower, granite countertops, vessel bowl sinks, and updated fixtures. Additional highlights include updated flooring throughout, fresh exterior paint, garage cabinets with a workbench and storage, an RV gate, and low-cost fixed solar. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity....request a private tour today!

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6502 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,880 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6757231

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This beautiful mid-century penthouse, designed by renowned architect Starkovich, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern living. Situated along the iconic, tree-lined Central Ave in one of Phoenix's most sought-after neighborhoods, this original 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts breathtaking north-facing views of Piestewa Peak and stunning sunsets, framed by an impressive wall of windows. Just steps away, the scenic Murphy Bridal Trail offers a perfect escape for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Bathed in natural light, the bright and airy interior creates an inviting atmosphere. The spacious great room is perfect for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying a peaceful morning coffee as the sunrise fills the space with warmth and light. HOA replaced roofs 2023, A/C & Heat piping 2024 they will also be redoing the wrap around patio. HOA includes utilities: cooling, heating, water, trash, sewer, cox cable and cox internet Owner only pays for electricity (minus heating and cooling) Complex was also just approved as Historical landmark which decreases homeowners' property tax as long as they are owner occupied

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