Reverse Mortgage Steps

The Steps to Obtain a Reverse Mortgage

Reverse Mortgages have helped thousands of seniors remain in their homes and create a more solid financial foundation. At Guarantee Mortgage we make it as easy as possible for you to obtain a Reverse Mortgage that works for you. We are here for you every step of the way, helping you understand and customize a loan that meets your unique situation. We know this type of decision can at times be daunting; we encourage you to seek advice and counsel of those you trust the most, whether it be family, an attorney, a financial planner, a tax specialist or other trusted professional. The following steps are here to help guide you and give you an idea of what to expect throughout the process of obtaining a reverse mortgage.

Step 1: Education and Research

Contact one of our knowledgeable Reverse Mortgage Specialists and we can create a comparison of available Reverse Mortgage programs that fit your specific situation. Within this consultation we will help you to evaluate each option available.

We recommend you consult other organizations for information such as: The National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) which is the “national voice and conscience of the reverse mortgage industry.” You can find them at http://www.reversemortgage.org.

Another great industry resource is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) found at http://www.hud.gov.

Step 2: Counseling

Once you have completed your research and have determined that you want a Reverse Mortgage, you must attend Reverse Mortgage Counseling. Counseling is mandatory; however we look at it as an educational checkpoint to confirm your research. There is a cost associated with this mandatory service that averages $125 per session. Pending on available State and Federal funding, this cost may be waived by the counseling organization. Sessions generally range between 1-2 hours and are often done over the phone but you have the right to receive face-to-face counseling if desired.

Step 3: Application

Upon completion of Reverse Mortgage counseling it is time to schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable Reverse Mortgage Specialists who will guide you through the paperwork package. The application can be done in person with a Reverse Mortgage Specialist or via mail.

Step 4: Appraisal and Escrow

Once we have received your signed and dated counseling certificate and have completed the application process, we will coordinate for an appraiser to go out to your home. The appraiser will follow a process to determine the value of your home. At this time we also open escrow to order a title report and ensure that there are no Federal or State tax liens on the property. It usually takes 1-2 weeks to receive a completed appraisal and title report.

Step 5: Underwriting

Once we have received all of the preliminary reports, inspection reports, and reviewed the loan package for completeness and compliance, we submit the loan for review and approval from the underwriter (the person who approves the loan). The underwriter then goes into a review process and may request further documentation.

Step 6: Closing

When your loan receives a final approval we will set up a signing appointment at the Title Company or a Mobile Notary who will go to a location convenient to you. Signing the final loan documents takes about an hour. Once the documents are fully executed they will be returned to Guarantee Mortgage for funding.

Step 7: Disbursement

By law, refinance loans have a three-day right of rescission to cancel the loan. After the three-day “waiting” period, funds are disbursed and recorded with your County. Purchase loans are typically recorded and funded within two business days.

Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out. Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency.

* For more information please visit our Disclosures page:  https://apmortgage.com/disclosures