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 > Consumer advice  > Money Matters  > Reverse Mortgages  > Borrower checklist

Borrower checklist

If you decide a reverse mortgage is for you, be sure to compare the different types of loans on the market. A number of lenders offer reverse mortgages under a range of different names. Ask each lender to show you how your loan will grow with varying interest rates. Ask them to put their ‘promises' in writing if they are not already included in their loan documentation.

Use the following checklist as a prompt to ask the right questions when you talk to a lender or mortgage broker.

printable checkbox What are the age and ownership criteria for this loan?

printable checkbox What are the conditions of the loan (eg insurance, maintenance)?

printable checkbox What are the minimum and maximum amounts I can borrow?

printable checkbox How is the loan available (eg lump sum, regular payment or combination)?

printable checkbox How is the loan calculated?

printable checkbox What is the interest rate?

printable checkbox Is this rate fixed or variable?

printable checkbox What fees are involved in taking out the loan? (eg home valuation and ongoing fees)

printable checkbox How much will I owe in 10-30 years time with varying interest rates?

printable checkbox How often is the house re-valued?

printable checkbox Can I make repayments to the loan without additional cost?

printable checkbox If I come into some money, is there a ‘break fee' to repay the total of the loan early?

printable checkbox How soon after I move or die does the loan have to be repaid?

printable checkbox How frequently will I receive loan statements?

printable checkbox Can I ensure there is a portion of my estate left for my beneficiaries?

printable checkbox What action will be taken if the loan eventually equals or exceeds the value of the house?

printable checkbox Is there a written guarantee that the loss will be covered if the debt is eventually greater than the value of the house?



Before you sign any contract it is important to seek independent advice from a financial planner and/or solicitor.

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