Many private reverse mortgages aren't insured. With these loans, the payout is backed only by the strength and reputation of the lender.
Uninsured reverse mortgages are fine if your parents opt for an up-front lump-sum payout, but if they're using the proceeds from the loan as monthly income or want access to a line of credit in case of an emergency, consider a reverse mortgage that's insured by the government.
To find a lender offering insured reverse mortgages, go to the Department of Housing and Urban Development website, where you can research reverse mortgage lenders and search for insured lenders in your area. With a federally insured reverse mortgage, your parents won't have to worry about their monthly income or line of credit.
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I live with my mother (co own) a condo. Because we don't own the land, a reverse mortgage is not allowed. When planning financial options for us, I keep being told "you can always get a reverse mortgage to help pay taxes and such". Seldom do articles mention your property may not quality.