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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1436 N Bernard -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$599,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,556 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6784104

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

''Investors here is the opportunity you've been waiting for. This Incredible 2 story home is perfectly situated in the sought after community of Sierra Estates. A fantastic floor plan with spacious living area and vaulted ceilings throughout. Great use of the over 3500 sq ft featuring 4 bedrooms 2.5 baths and gorgeous vaulted ceilings. The Back yard has outdoor kitchen, with pool and open space. Bring your vision and skills to a home that is ready for you to make it shine. Mostly cosmetic repairs needed and will be an incredible investment opportunity for some sweat equity.

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4628 N Desert Stream Way Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$599,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,513 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6701011

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Corner view lot with only one immediate neighbor! Property backs to pond with tranquil water and sunset views! 3 Bedrooms + Huge Loft, 2.5 baths, Great Room with dramatic ceiling. Roof redone 2016, 2 New Trane HVAC's 2019, 2 1/2Car Garage updated Nov 2022 with side mount garage door openers, epoxy floor, garage cabinets, 5 overhead storage racks, lighting, wired for EV charging & tankless hot water heater. Neutral tile, carpet and paint. Primary spacious bedroom features vaulted ceilings, window seat and separate door to back patio & lush backyard. Kitchen with backyard/pond views has granite counters, professional appliances, trash compactor and pantry. Private balcony for stunning views! Loft is versatile for office/play room/game room. Front entry with extensive paver patio and steps. Nearby: Wigwam Resort and Country Club featuring 3 renowned golf courses offering 54 holes of championship-level play, tennis, spa, & 3 on site restaurants. From the Litchfield Greens community there are 2 tunnels connecting to Litchfield Park Proper, featuring 4 Parks,1 Lake, miles and miles of walk ways friendly for walking and cycling. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to parks, libraries, and award-winning schools. The city's vibrant community life is reflected in major events like the Litchfield Park Festival of the Arts and Christmas in the Park. Upcoming New Litchfield Square Development~At the heart of Litchfield Park is the Litchfield Square projecta 26-acre mixed-use urban hub that will serve as new downtown. Designed with a walkable, community-oriented layout.

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15340 W Black Gold Lane Sun City West, AZ 85375

$599,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,564 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779669

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Whether you call Sun City West home year-round, or want a winter retreat, this gorgeous home with GOLF COURSE VIEWS is it! Enjoy world-class amenities, including recreation centers with pools, fitness facilities, and golf. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home has been freshly painted and offers tile flooring, a fireplace, and ample windows for natural light. The open kitchen boasts granite counters, a gas cooktop, and an island with prep sink, ideal for entertaining. The primary suite features a dual vanity, soaking tub, and shower. Relax on the covered patio overlooking the golf course! Prime location near highways, shopping, dining, & more!

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31013 N 41st Place Cave Creek, AZ 85331

New

$599,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,096 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787652

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this spacious and inviting home in highly sought-after Tatum Ranch! With over 2,000 square feet of living space, this bright and open floor plan features soaring vaulted ceilings, a striking wrap-around fireplace, plantation shutters, first floor primary suite and a new first floor A/C unit. The open-concept kitchen is perfect for entertaining, complete with stainless steel appliances, plenty of counter space and pantry. The generous primary bedroom is a true retreat, offering a private patio entrance, a beautiful arched window that bathes the room in natural light, and a luxurious en suite with dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in closet. The upstairs versatile loft provides the perfect space for a home office or flex room. Step outside to enjoy the spacious covered patio, extended patio, and mature landscaping--perfect for relaxation or gatherings. The extended garage adds valuable storage or workspace. Enjoy the wonderful amenities of Tatum Ranch, including nearby parks, trails, shopping, dining and world-class golf. Don't miss this gem!

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1401 Old Jerome Highway Clarkdale, AZ 86324

New

$599,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,401 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787713

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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10005 E Michigan Avenue Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$599,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,075 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781481

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Location is everything for this 3BR, 2BA golf course home in the fun active adult community of Cottonwood in Sun Lakes. Literally steps from the clubhouse and all its many amenities, this meticulously maintained home features a great room w/vaulted ceilings, electric fireplace with stunning, expansive golf course views. Kitchen features painted cabinets, some newer appliances, and an expanded breakfast area with bonus storage. New carpet in all three bedrooms. Large, expanded primary suite w/walk-in shower, dual sinks, modern lighting and a bonus sitting area with extra closet space. Extra deep, south facing covered patio and a serene backyard with mature landscaping. Enjoy the many amenities in Cottonwood: golf, tennis, pickleball, multiple pools, lots of clubs and wonderful restaurants.

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28614 N Sunset Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$599,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,997 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780404

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your DREAM home is here in Johnson Ranch! This gorgeous 4-bed, 3-bath property sits on a large lot of a cul-de-sac with NO neighbors behind. Its charm starts with a desert landscape, stone accent details, front porch, RV gate, and a 3-car tandem garage w/cabinetry & extended driveway. The inviting interior is filled with natural light, complemented by a neutral palette, archways, and tile & soft carpet in all the right places. With separate living & family rooms, you have versatile spaces for relaxation and gatherings. The impressive eat-in kitchen features SS appliances, quartz counters, travertine tile backsplash, recessed lighting, ample wood cabinets, and a center island. Completing the downstairs, you have 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, double-door den, & a storage room under the stairs. Head upstairs to find the other well-appointed bedrooms, along with a loft that can be a play/TV area! Enter the owner's suite to find a cozy sitting room and an ensuite with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. But the true highlight is the spacious backyard! Designed for entertaining, showcasing an outdoor kitchen w/sitting bar, putting green, multiple seating areas, artificial turf, and a sparkling pool for year-round enjoyment. The storage shed & garden beds are added perks. What's not to like? Pack your bags and move in!

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26205 S Beech Creek Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$599,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,971 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763105

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a home where sophistication meets comfort. The custom-designed fireplace sets the tone in the expansive great room—perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand entertaining. This home is better than new, boasting brand-new floors and windows throughout, with meticulous attention to detail at every turn! The heart of the home, the gourmet kitchen, is a chef's dream. Featuring top-of-the-line KitchenAid and Bosch appliances, drawer microwave, dual ovens, induction cooktop, custom drawer organization for all your kitchen utensils, stunning custom quartz countertops, and a massive island that provides ample seating. The flat-panel European-style cabinets are sleek and modern, beautifully complemented by designer lighting. Retreat to the luxurious master suite, where relaxation awaits. The master bathroom boasts a bespoke vanity with a dedicated makeup area, a spacious walk-in shower with a bench, and no-step entry for ultimate convenience. The serene bedroom offers a peaceful view of the private backyard, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The open-concept living area flows seamlessly into a formal dining space, ideal for hosting dinner parties or family meals. Step outside to a backyard that's made for Arizona living. The newly epoxied patio is ready for you to enjoy cool winter evenings under the stars. This stunning home is an entertainer's dream and a peaceful retreat all in one. NEW ROOF AND AC! Don't miss your chance to own this beautifully reimagined property!

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4290 Highway 82 -- Elgin, AZ 85611

$599,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,809 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6547141

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning property offers panoramic views and sits on just over 13 acres, making it a true retreat! The home features a spacious great room with a cozy fireplace and Saltillo tile flooring throughout. Enjoy the Arizona room with a spa, perfect for relaxation. The country kitchen boasts tile countertops, an island, ample cabinetry, a gas stove, and a walk-in pantry. The layout includes Jack and Jill guest bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, and a guest bathroom featuring dual sinks, a walk-in shower, and a linen closet. Unwind under the covered patio, enhanced by the shade of mature pine trees, or take in the serene front courtyard with its desert garden. This property also includes a two-car attached garage that doubles as a workshop. Barn with covered shelter and fencing.

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2509 N Dayton Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$599,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,684 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6620344

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nice 3bedroom 1.75 bath with 2 Car Garage the casita in back yard is rented for 800.00 per month making this an awesome Investment property. Also Parking on southside of home for small boat Trailer or additional Cars. Guest home at rear of home with full bath and kitchen great for rental income or for your family to enjoy or maybe a office and alley entrance. you will love this home for a large family or as an investment. close to restaurants and Downtown activities Schools are all nearby. Excellent Location. Owner is working on home and cleaning.

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11217 N Blakely Street Surprise, AZ 85388

$599,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,568 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6660689

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

$80k in upgrades. Motivated seller! No waiting, own it now! Quiet street & 55+ section. Deluxe contemporary style. The Smithfield's welcoming extended covered entry and inviting foyer flow into the spacious great room and casual dining area, with views of the desirable covered patio. The well-designed kitchen is highlighted by a large center island with breakfast bar, plenty of counter and cabinet space, and ample walk-in pantry. The beautiful primary bedroom suite is enhanced by a sizable walk-in closet and spa-like primary bath with dual-sink vanity, luxe glass-enclosed shower with seat, and private water closet. The generous secondary bedroom features a roomy closet and shared full hall bath. Additional highlights include centrally located laundry and additional storage.

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3291 N Clanton Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$599,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,350 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767149

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of Verrado's Heritage District, this stunning home sits on a large corner lot, directly across from the picturesque Kings Green Park. With White Tank Mountain views, the location offers an idyllic mix of natural beauty and modern living. The first impression is nothing short of welcoming, thanks to the new exterior paint, manicured landscaping, and inviting full-length front porch. Inside, this meticulously maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is designed with comfort and functionality in mind. The dining room flows effortlessly into open living spaces, creating the perfect setting for both entertaining and day-to-day relaxation. At the heart of the home is a spacious kitchen, outfitted with stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a walk-in pantry, ideal for both casual meals and larger gatherings. A standout feature is the enclosed home office the perfect retreat for focused work or creative projects. The additional bonus room adds even more versatility, whether used as a playroom, library, or hobby space. Year-round comfort is ensured with new insulation, two new AC units, and a climate-controlled garage, complete with a new mini-split system for extra workspace or simply keeping your vehicles cool. The 2-car garage is also upgraded with lots of cabinets, a new door and top of the line opener, offering both convenience and style. Out back, the expansive, newly landscaped backyard offers a private oasis, complete with artificial turf for easy maintenance and a dedicated dog run with turf for your furry friends. The home is powered by an impressive solar system that saves on energy costs while even providing credits during certain months an eco-friendly feature that adds tremendous value. Don't miss your chance to make it yours!

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