There are many misconceptions about LifeStyle Home Loan Refinances that sometimes lead people away from considering one. Here are many of the myths and facts about LifeStyle Home Loan Refinances that we hope bring clarity and assist you in making the most informed decision.
LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance Myths and Facts
Myth: You immediately sign over ownership to your home.
Fact: You retain title to your home as long as you meet the loan guidelines and requirements such as: maintaining the property, paying all property charges such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, flood insurance, and homeowners association dues (if applicable), and avoid extended absences from the home longer than six months.*
Myth: If you take out a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance loan your children won't be left with any of the home equity.
Fact: While the amount of equity typically decreases over time with a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance, it doesn't always mean there will be no equity when the last borrower dies. There are several factors that go into how much equity will be left, such as home appreciation, length of the loan, and optional monthly payments. There can still be equity left for your children.
Myth: Your children will be responsible for repaying the loan when you die
Fact: A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance is a non-recourse loan, meaning that the lender can only be repaid from the proceeds of the sale of the home and not more than the value of the home. That means even if the home decreases greatly in value, the maximum repayment amount can only be up to the value of the home. While your heirs will not be responsible for the loan repayment, they will still have the option to refinance the loan to purchase it for themselves.
Myth: A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance requires that you make monthly mortgage payments.
Fact: While you can choose to make mortgage payments, they are not required with a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance. The borrower is still responsible to maintain the property, pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, flood insurance, and homeowners association dues (if applicable), and avoid extended absences from the home longer than six months.*
Myth: You must have your first mortgage paid off before you can qualify for a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance.
Fact: While any debt on your home's title must be paid off at closing and you must have adequate equity in the property, it is not required that you own your home "free and clear" before getting a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance.
Myth: You are not allowed to sell your home if you have a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance.
Fact: You can sell your home if you wish and - just like any other mortgage loan - you must pay off the LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance at closing. There are also no prepayment penalties if you choose to pay off your loan early or make loan payments.
Some Additional HECM Loan / LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance Loan Facts
- Many retirees use a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance.
- A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance allows older homeowners to access a portion of the value of their home.
- A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance is a specialized loan for homeowners 62 and older.
- A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance is eligible only for the borrower’s primary or principal residence.
- LifeStyle Home Loan Refinances that are FHA-insured (Home Equity Conversion Mortgages) are insured by the Federal Housing Administration providing protection for both borrowers, lenders and beneficiaries.
- HUD counseling (from an independent HUD-approved third-party counselor) is required prior to the borrower incurring any costs associated with the loan.
- The cash or proceeds you receive from a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance typically are not subject to individual income taxation. However, we suggest you consult your tax advisor to provide guidance for your particular situation.
- It is not a government grant, but a loan that is repaid in the future when the home is sold or the last borrower dies or permanently leaves their residence.
- LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance proceeds could affect government needs-based programs such as Medicaid and Medi-Cal. Those receiving such benefits should consult a professional before obtaining a LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance.
- A LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance loan is secured by a mortgage on the home and failure to comply with loan terms could result in foreclosure.
- It’s a specialized loan. However, program rates, fees, terms, and conditions are not available in all states and are subject to change.
*This advertisement does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a financial advisor regarding your specific situation. There are some circumstances that will cause the loan to mature and the balance to become due and payable. Borrowers are still responsible for paying property taxes, homeowner’s insurance and maintaining the property to HUD standards. Failure to do so could make the loan due and payable. Credit is subject to age, income standards, credit history, and property qualifications. Program rates, fees, terms, and conditions are not available in all states and subject to change. Borrowers should seek professional tax advice regarding LifeStyle Home Loan Refinance proceeds.