Do I still own my home with a reverse mortgage?
By AbeAugust 12, 2026Reverse Mortgages
Short Answer
Yes. With a reverse mortgage, you keep title to the home. The lender receives a lien, just as with a traditional mortgage.
Full Detailed Answer
Keeping title also means keeping homeowner responsibilities. You must generally live in the property as required, pay property taxes and insurance, maintain the home, and comply with the loan terms.
The loan balance grows as interest, mortgage-insurance premiums when applicable, and other financed charges accrue. You may sell the home at any time and use the sale proceeds to repay the loan, keeping any remaining equity after payoff and costs.
When the last borrower dies or permanently leaves the home, the loan generally becomes due. Heirs may have options to repay the balance, refinance, sell the property, or allow the lender to proceed under the loan rules. Timing and non-recourse protections should be explained for the specific product.
What Abe Will Review
- Title remains with homeowner
- Lien and growing loan balance
- Taxes, insurance, maintenance, and occupancy
- Repayment and heir options
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