A reverse mortgage is a financial product that allows homeowners aged 55 or older to access the equity in their homes without having to sell or move out.
It provides a way for retirees to supplement their retirement income or cover unexpected expenses while remaining in their homes.
In Canada, there are several providers offering reverse mortgages, with HomeEquity Bank, Equitable Bank, and Bloom Financial being the three main players in the market. This page will explore the concept of reverse mortgages in Canada, discuss the benefits and considerations, and provide an overview of the three major providers.
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Understanding Reverse Mortgages
A reverse mortgage is a loan that is secured against the value of the home. Unlike a traditional mortgage, where the homeowner makes regular payments to the lender, a reverse mortgage allows the homeowner to receive funds from the lender based on the equity built up in the property. The loan is repaid when the homeowner sells the home, moves out, or passes away. The amount that can be borrowed through a reverse mortgage is determined by factors such as the homeowner’s age, the appraised value of the home, and the location of the property.
Benefits of Reverse Mortgages
- Access to Home Equity: Reverse mortgages provide homeowners with a way to tap into their home equity without having to sell their property. This can be especially beneficial for retirees who have a significant portion of their net worth tied up in their homes.
- Supplement Retirement Income: Reverse mortgages can help retirees supplement their retirement income, providing a steady stream of funds that can be used to cover living expenses, medical bills, or other financial needs.
- No Monthly Mortgage Payments: One of the key advantages of a reverse mortgage is that there are no monthly mortgage payments required. The loan is repaid when the homeowner no longer occupies the property, typically through the sale of the home.
- Flexibility: Reverse mortgages offer flexibility in how the funds can be used. Borrowers can choose to receive a lump sum payment, a line of credit, or a combination of both. This allows homeowners to tailor the loan to their specific financial needs.
Considerations and Eligibility

While reverse mortgages can be a useful financial tool for many retirees, there are several considerations to keep in mind:
- Age Requirement: To qualify for a reverse mortgage in Canada, homeowners must be at least 55 years old. The older the homeowner, the higher the loan-to-value ratio and the greater the amount that can be borrowed.
- Home Equity Requirements: Reverse mortgage providers typically require homeowners to have a certain amount of equity in their homes. The exact requirements may vary between lenders.
- Interest Rates and Fees: Reverse mortgages often have higher interest rates and fees compared to traditional mortgages. It is essential to understand the costs involved and compare different lenders to ensure you are getting the best terms.
- Impact on Inheritance: Taking out a reverse mortgage will reduce the amount of equity that can be passed on to heirs. It is important to consider the long-term implications for your estate planning.
Major Reverse Mortgage Providers in Canada
- HomeEquity Bank: HomeEquity Bank is the leading provider of reverse mortgages in Canada and has been serving Canadian seniors for over 30 years. Their flagship product, the CHIP Reverse Mortgage, allows homeowners aged 55 or older to access the equity in their homes without having to sell or move out. HomeEquity Bank provides personalized advice and offers competitive interest rates and flexible payment options.
With the CHIP Reverse Mortgage, homeowners can choose to receive the funds as a lump sum payment, regular income payments, or a combination of both. The loan is repaid when the homeowner sells the property, moves out, or passes away. HomeEquity Bank ensures that homeowners can live in their homes for as long as they wish, with no requirement for monthly mortgage payments.
- Equitable Bank: Equitable Bank is a reputable provider of reverse mortgages in Canada, offering the PATH Home Plan Reverse Mortgage. Like other reverse mortgage providers, Equitable Bank caters to homeowners aged 55 or older who want to access their home equity while remaining in their homes. They prioritize responsible lending practices and provide competitive interest rates and flexible payment options.
Equitable Bank’s PATH Home Plan Reverse Mortgage allows homeowners to receive a lump sum payment, regular income, or a combination of both. Homeowners can use the funds to supplement retirement income, cover medical expenses, or meet other financial needs. Equitable Bank ensures that homeowners have the freedom to stay in their homes without the burden of monthly mortgage payments.
- Bloom Financial: Bloom Financial is another prominent player in Canada’s reverse mortgage market, offering innovative solutions for seniors looking to unlock their home equity. They provide personalized service and work closely with homeowners to find the best reverse mortgage option that suits their specific needs.
Bloom Financial’s reverse mortgage products allow homeowners to access their home equity in a flexible and convenient manner. With their expertise, they guide homeowners through the process and ensure that they have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions. Bloom Financial aims to empower seniors by providing them with the financial resources they need to enjoy their retirement years.
Last modified: July 10, 2023