Manage episode 519075099 series 3566555
Most retirees don’t run out of love for life—they run out of cash flow. We sit down with Kevin Guttman, one of just 218 certified reverse mortgage professionals in the U.S., to unpack how today’s FHA‑backed reverse mortgages actually work, who they help, and why their reputation hasn’t caught up with reality. Kevin brings more than two decades of lending experience, nonprofit roots, and a people‑first approach to a topic crowded with myths and fear.
We walk through the modern safeguards that protect seniors—HUD counseling, non‑recourse rules, transparent fees—and explain the biggest misconceptions: you keep title, you can’t outlive the loan, and heirs still decide whether to sell or refinance. Kevin breaks the product into three clear use cases: making mortgage payments optional, accessing a flexible line of credit to handle rising costs or pay off debt, and purchasing a right‑sized home after 62 without taking on a monthly payment. Along the way, he shares powerful client stories, from a widow staying securely in place to an 84‑year‑old trading credit‑card groceries for peace of mind.
If you or a parent is weighing medical expenses, shrinking income, and a house full of locked equity, this conversation offers a practical framework. Learn how reverse mortgage proceeds interact with taxes, why most borrowers access roughly 35–45 percent of value, and how planning with life insurance and long‑term care riders can improve outcomes for heirs. Kevin also points to trusted resources—his consumer guide and short explainer videos—so you can learn privately before you decide.
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Chapters
1. Meet Kevin Gutman (00:00:00)
2. Why Reverse Mortgages Change Lives (00:01:12)
3. Myths, Safety, And Modern Rules (00:02:28)
4. Non‑Recourse And Heirs’ Options (00:05:15)
5. Family Dynamics And Equity Buckets (00:08:40)
6. Three Ways Seniors Use Them (00:11:32)
7. Buying A Home After 62 (00:15:20)
8. Travel, Perspective, And Personalization (00:18:27)
9. Resources, Licensing, And How To Learn (00:20:46)
10. Closing Thoughts And Gratitude (00:23:20)
68 episodes