Seniors over 62 can take advantage of the equity they have build in their home by applying for a reverse mortgage. A reverse home loan can help seniors because it works as a loan advance. With this type of loan, the owner doesn't need to make monthly payments back to the bank and doesn't need to pay back any of the money for as long as the owner lives in the property.

The homeowner doesn't need to pay any money back and can not be kicked out of the home for lack of payments because there aren't any payments to make. The homeowner can elect to receive the money from the reverse mortgage in one of three ways: a one time payment, a credit line or as regular monthly payments.

There are basically three different types of reverse mortgages that owners can apply for: a single purpose reverse home mortgage, a federally backed reverse mortgage or a privately issued reverse mortgage.

Single Purpose Reverse Home Mortgage

A single purpose reverse mortgage is offered by Government agencies and non-profit organizations. It's the most inexpensive of the three types of reverse mortgages. The problem with this type is that they are harder to qualify for and the owner must have a small income. It also requires that the funds from the loan are used for a specific purpose (improvements, repairs or property taxes.)

Federally Backed Reverse Mortgage

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) backs this reverse mortgage. It is also know as a HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage.) It is a more expensive loan than the previous one.

This type of reverse mortgage is by far the most common of the three. It accounts for over 90% of all reverse mortgages. It's very popular because it's very easy to apply to and qualify for. In addition, you can use the money from the loan far whatever reason you want.

Proprietary Reverse Home Mortgage

This type of mortgage is provided by a private company who hasn't been approved to issue a Federally Insured Reverse Mortgage. In general, they have the same type of requirements than a regular reverse mortgage.

The biggest drawback is its cost. Since it doesn't need to comply with federal regulations, companies can get away with charging to much money to unsuspected senior citizens.

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