Answers
Editorial
NewRetirement
San Francisco, CA
This is a great question -- one faced by many retirees.
The answer of course all depends on your needs and goals.
Typically a Reverse Mortgage will cost more than refinancing but will enable you to access quite a bit more money and completely eliminate your monthly mortgage payment.
--> https://www.newretirement.com/reverse-mortgage-marketplace.aspx
Refinancing your mortgage can lower your interest rate and lower monthly payments and sometimes can enable you to also access money through a home equity line of credit, but it can be difficult to qualify -- especially if you are retired without an income stream.
--> http://www.newretirement.com/Services/Mortgage_Refinancing_Calculator.aspx
Downsizing is another option that many retirees find appealing. Downsizing enables you to cash in some equity on your home and/or lower mortgage payments. It also enables you to potentially relocate into a home that may better suit your retirement lifestyle.
--> http://www.newretirement.com/Services/Relocation.aspx
I would encourage you to explore all options with lenders in order to get a better understanding of what each opportunity will really mean to you and your retirement -- both now and as you age.
**All above answers are provided as general information only. No warranty is made regarding the fitness or accuracy of the information provided in this answer. You should seek advice from a licensed CPA, attorney or CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ as to your unique financial situation.