How to Find Out if Someone Has a Reverse Mortgage

It is common to need information about a property’s financial encumbrances, especially when considering a purchase, handling an estate, or conducting property research. A reverse mortgage, like other liens, is typically part of the public record, making this information accessible. Understanding how to navigate public records and knowing what to look for is key to uncovering whether a property has this specific type of loan.

Accessing Public Property Records

Mortgage information, including reverse mortgages, is recorded at the local level, usually with the county recorder’s office, county clerk, or land records office. The specific name of the office can vary by state or county, but their function remains consistent: maintaining official records of real estate transactions, including property deeds and mortgages.

To initiate a search, you will generally need the full property address or the current owner’s name. Having accurate details for either of these will significantly streamline the search process, as records are typically indexed by property location or party names. Some jurisdictions also use parcel numbers, which are unique identifiers for each property, to organize their records.

Many counties now offer online searchable databases for convenient access to property records. These online portals often enable searches by property address, owner name, or parcel number, and may include filters for document type or date ranges. While online access is growing, some older records or specific document types might only be available through in-person visits.

For an in-person visit, contacting the county office beforehand is advisable to confirm operating hours and any specific procedures for accessing records. Staff at these offices can often provide guidance on how to use their public terminals or record books to locate the necessary documents. Copies of documents, whether obtained online or in person, may involve small fees, typically ranging from $1.00 to $2.00 per page for uncertified copies and slightly more for certified copies.

While less common for routine searches, some county offices may accept requests for records via mail or phone. Such requests typically require a written application detailing the property information and a prepayment for any associated fees.

Identifying Reverse Mortgage Documents

After accessing property records, identify documents indicating a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage is secured by a lien against the property, similar to a traditional mortgage, and will be recorded as such. Look for documents titled “Deed of Trust,” “Mortgage,” or “Security Instrument,” as these are common forms used to establish a lien on real estate.

These documents may contain riders or addendums with further loan details. Within these security instruments, or sometimes in separate but related documents, look for keywords and phrases that explicitly identify a reverse mortgage. Common terms include “Reverse Mortgage,” “Home Equity Conversion Mortgage” (HECM), or references to “HUD” or “FHA case number,” as HECM is the most prevalent type of federally insured reverse mortgage in the U.S.

Once a reverse mortgage document is located, extract information such as the lender’s name, original loan amount, and recording date. The document will also typically reference the HECM program if it is an FHA-insured loan. Pay close attention to clauses related to the loan becoming due, such as those triggered by death, home sale, or extended absence from the property, which are characteristic of reverse mortgages.

A key distinction from traditional mortgages is that reverse mortgage documents will not typically show a fixed monthly payment schedule for the borrower. Instead, they emphasize that the loan balance grows over time, with repayment generally deferred until specific events occur, like the homeowner no longer occupying the property as their primary residence. This structure highlights the loan’s purpose of providing funds without requiring ongoing mortgage payments from the borrower.