Reverse Mortgage Radio

In this episode of Reverse Mortgage Radio , I talk about how real retirement independence comes from peace of mind, not just having your home paid off. I share that many Colorado seniors still feel pressure from housing costs, mortgage debt, or the fear of outliving their savings, even after years of building equity. I also explain why I see home equity as an often-overlooked retirement tool, espe...

In this episode, I explain why making voluntary payments on a reverse mortgage can be a smart strategy for some homeowners. I talk about how those payments can help grow the available line of credit, preserve more equity for heirs, and build a stronger financial safety net over time for borrowers who want more flexibility and control in retirement.

What happens to your home, and your heirs, when a reverse mortgage comes due? Most people think the bank just "takes the house," but that couldn't be further from the truth. In this episode, Bruce Simmons (the "Reverse Mortgage Professor") breaks down the specific HUD rules that protect heirs, including the 95% Rule for keeping a home with no equity and the non-recourse protection that ensures no...

Are you "house rich but cash poor"? In this episode, Bruce Simmons explores the growing "cost burden" on Colorado seniors. We dive into the Harvard research showing why 1 in 3 retirees is struggling, the massive property tax hikes hitting the Front Range, and a brilliant "downsize and upgrade" strategy that can put $500,000 back in your pocket.

Learn how the "60% rule" and updated Non-Borrowing Spouse protections create a more stable and secure retirement for Colorado homeowners.

Discover two sophisticated ways to leverage a reverse mortgage for purchase. Learn how to buy multifamily properties for rental income and how "overfunding" a line of credit can create a massive, tax-free retirement safety net. Two Advanced Strategies to Boost Retirement Income with an HECM

This week on Reverse Mortgage Radio, we take you behind the scenes of a major industry summit in Knoxville. From the influx of younger, ethical lenders to the academic research that’s changing how financial advisors view home equity, we’re talking about why this business is more about "people work" than "paperwork." Tune in to learn how a reverse mortgage can be a strategic tool for your retiremen...

Many homeowners assume reverse mortgages work just like traditional loans, but the interest rate structure is actually quite different. This episode breaks down the "Interest Rate Puzzle," explaining the difference between the expected rate (which determines borrowing power) and the initial rate (what is actually charged). Listeners will learn why the 10-year Treasury index matters, how interest r...

What happens after signing a reverse mortgage application? This episode explores the process using the analogy of a long-distance flight. From the "security screening" of underwriting to navigating the "turbulence" of appraisals and title searches, learn what it takes to reach the destination: financial stability. This guide covers common hurdles like HOA verifications and property condition requi...

Many seniors worry that a reverse mortgage will "steal" their children's inheritance, but the reality is often the exact opposite. This episode explores three major reasons why adult children encourage their parents to tap into their home equity, from maintaining independence to protecting the family estate from future debt.

Bruce Simmons explains why he visits homes personally to spot appraisal hurdles like missing handrails or CO2 detectors before they stall your loan.

Join Bruce Simmons and industry expert Michael Banner as they debunk the "Wild West" myths of reverse mortgages and explain how modern FHA protections have transformed home equity into a strategic retirement tool.

Ever wondered why reverse mortgages have so many specific rules? Today I am going "under the hood" to explain three quirky regulations. From the 60% disbursement limit to how appraisals are scrutinized, learn how these rules were designed to protect your home and your retirement.

Worried a single late payment or a modest income might disqualify you from a reverse mortgage? In this episode I will break down the four key requirements for qualifying in Colorado—Age, Equity, Payment History, and Residual Income—and explain why 'perfect' credit isn't the goal. Learn how the Letter of Explanation (LOE) and Life Expectancy Set Aside (LESA) work in your favor.

You're ready to downsize, relocate, or become a "grandbaby chaser," but worried about high interest rates or a new monthly mortgage payment? In this episode, I’ll explain the "Reverse for Purchase" program—a powerhouse strategy that lets you buy your next Colorado home using your equity without ever having to make a required monthly mortgage payment. Learn how to "overfund" your loan to create a g...

In this episode, I’m challenging the myth that a reverse mortgage is only for the desperate. If you’ve spent a lifetime building wealth, you might be surprised to learn how an FHA-insured HECM is becoming a sophisticated tool for the financially savvy. I’ll break down three rational reasons why asset-rich homeowners use a line of credit to gain liquidity without selling investments, protect their...

Want to stay in your home forever? Bruce Simmons chats with Consultant on Aging Amy Lane about the simple "home hacks"—from barn doors to grab bars—that make aging in place safe and easy in Colorado.

Ever heard the term "financial assessment" and felt a bit nervous? Don’t be! In this episode, we break down why the HECM financial assessment is actually a safety net for your retirement. We dive into the shift from traditional mortgage qualifying to "residual income" checks, explore how a Life Expectancy Set Aside (LESA) works, and explain why these rules exist to ensure you can stay in your home...

Are the fears surrounding reverse mortgages based on reality or outdated myths? This episode explores the 35-year journey of the FHA-insured HECM, from its 1961 origins to the highly regulated program it is today. We discuss how a colorado reverse mortgage has transformed through major safety reforms, including non-recourse protection and financial assessment rules. You will learn about the strate...

In this special episode, I’m going to share  some "tough love" on how to choose the right lender. Not all reverse mortgages—or lenders—are created equal. Choosing the wrong one can cost you thousands in fees or lead to a plan that doesn't actually fit your retirement. I am going to  break down 7 smart tips to help you spot a "transactional" salesperson versus an educational specialist. Whether you...

I’ve spent a lot of time talking about how these loans can help you stay in your home, but today’s show is different. Honestly, it’s one of the most important shows I do. My goal isn’t to sell you on anything—it’s to help you make an informed decision, even if that decision is "no."

Is a reverse mortgage actually a "bad" deal? In this episode, Bruce Simmons (The Reverse Mortgage Professor) flips the script to discuss the pros AND the cons. From upfront mortgage insurance and growing loan balances to what actually happens to your heirs, Bruce breaks down the five most common downsides with total transparency. If you’re a Colorado homeowner aged 62+ looking for the facts withou...

I explain the five biggest benefits of the FHA‑insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for homeowners 62+. Learn how the HECM can change cash flow, offer flexible access to equity, protect heirs, and what federal safeguards exist. Ideal for cautious retirees exploring options to stay in their homes.

I unpack five human reasons smart homeowners often say no to reverse mortgages — from shame to cognitive overload — and how understanding those feelings helps you decide if a HECM makes sense for your life.

I walk through 26 practical ways older homeowners are using reverse mortgages today — from eliminating mortgage payments and creating monthly cash flow to funding home safety upgrades, in‑home care, or a standby line of credit. This episode is for homeowners who want clear, no‑pressure options for using home equity.