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Get real about Home Businesses!!!
Copyright 2005 Michelle Cornes Are you thinking it might be time to take control and work for yourself? The degree to which YOU are up for this challenge is everything. Here are some of the things about yourself that you really need to be...
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There are lots of benefits for some businesses to import or export goods. Manufacturers and distributors can order directly from the overseas manufacturer and save money on their purchases. They can also market their goods to the world instead of...
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SELLING YOUR BUSINESS – A TOOL TO REDUCE THE TAX BITE By David M. Kauppi, MBA, CEA, CBI, President Mid Market Capital “I would rather expire at my desk than to sell my business and pay Uncle Sam one dime in taxes.” How many owners that have paid...
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Tuition costs are climbing, housing costs are climbing, it seems like all the costs for students are climbing these days. Students can afford cost increases less than any other demographic in Canada. Because of this, parents and students alike...
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Advantages and Disadvantages Of A Reverse Mortgage
Copyright 2005 Paul Jesse
Betty and John, are in their mid-seventies and are currently weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse mortgage as a way of freeing up some cash. The couple purchased their home 45 years ago for about $14,000 since then home values have skyrocketed and recent single family homes in their neighborhood have been selling for a minimum of $160,000.
Like Betty and John, if you’re considering a reverse mortgage it’s important to do some research prior to making a decision. You not only need to understand the basic principles of this kind of mortgage but you also need to look at all the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse mortgage.
Essentially a reverse mortgage is a loan that permits homeowners 62 years of age and older to borrow against the equity in their homes without having to sell it. Further, you don’t have to give up the title or take on a new monthly mortgage payment.
A reverse mortgage loan is tax-free and needs only to be repaid when the borrower (or in the case of Betty and John, when the surviving spouse) dies or sells the home. At which time, the reverse mortgage loan must be repaid in full, including all interest and other charges.
When examining the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse mortgage it’s also important to consider both the process and the related costs of obtaining a reverse mortgage. Unlike a conventional mortgage, with a reverse mortgage, the homeowner (the potential borrower) must meet with a reverse mortgage counselor. References for counselors can be obtained from banks offering reverse mortgages or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The purpose of these meetings which may take place in person or on the telephone is for the homeowner to learn about reverse mortgages and discuss alternative options. It also helps you decide which kind of reverse mortgage may be best. As well as exploring the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse
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mortgage, it’s wise that the potential borrower, also compare costs between various lenders and request a Total Annual Loan Cost estimate for each.
Further to discussing the advantages and disadvantages of a reverse mortgage with a counselor, you also need to understand that there are certain costs involved in the reverse mortgage process. Costs may include application fees, closing costs, insurance, appraisal fees, credit report fees, and quite possibly a monthly service fee. Remember too that since a reverse mortgage allows you to continue living in your home, you’re still responsible for property taxes, insurance and repairs. If these payments are not maintained, the loan could become due in full.
A reverse mortgage may also affect eligibility for federal or state assistance as well as Medicaid. That said, any reverse mortgage money that is received is tax-free and does not affect Social Security or Medicare benefits.
The condition of your home is also a large part of the approval process. It must be structurally sound and in good repair. If it’s determined that home repairs need to be done, the costs can also be financed through the reverse mortgage loan.
The total amount a homeowner can borrow all depends on the kind of reverse mortgage selected, how much equity is in the home, the loan's interest rate and most importantly, the age of the borrower. Typically the older a person is, the more they can expect to receive.
A borrower can receive reverse mortgage payments in one of the following ways: in a lump-sum payment; fixed monthly payments; a line of credit or a combination of any of the above. Most homeowners go for the line of credit option which allows them to draw on the loan whenever money is required.
Paul Jesse is a retired government employee, small business owner and the author of many articles on finance and internet marketing. Visit his website at: http://www.sheamarketing.com
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