Reverse Mortgages Explained: The Truth About Aging in Place With More Options & Freedom

If you’ve ever wondered whether a reverse mortgage is a smart option - or you’ve heard conflicting opinions from friends and neighbors - today’s episode is a must-listen.

Juli is joined by *Michael Pankow*, Certified Senior Advisor, Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, and national expert on reverse mortgages. He’s also a Board Member with the National Aging in Place Council, licensed in all 50 states, and served 12 years in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Michael and Juli dig into *what a reverse mortgage actually is*, who it’s best for, and the surprising ways families are leveraging home equity to age in place, plan for retirement, or create multi-generational homes that truly support their needs.

They also address the biggest misconceptions and share the consumer protections that now make this one of the most secure loan products available.

Whether you’re thinking ahead for yourself or helping aging parents navigate increasing costs and care needs, this episode will help you expand your options - and reduce the financial pressure so many seniors feel late in life.

Chapters:
00:00 – Episode intro
03:36 – What is a reverse mortgage?
04:58 – Top reasons seniors choose a reverse mortgage
14:00 – Consumer protections + LESA plan
15:56 – HELOC vs reverse mortgage
24:36 – House rich, cash poor realities
32:36 – Funding care + medical needs
49:55 – Social Security & Medicare considerations
51:37 – How to learn more + free seminars
52:50 – Michael’s personal why
58:13 – Final thoughts + partnering together
1:00:13 – Outro

Listen now - and feel empowered to ask better questions in your own planning.

*Join Michael’s next FREE Reverse Mortgage Seminar on Wed. Dec 10, 2025 at 2 PM Pacific | 5 PM EST (Michael Pankow NMLS ID #220611  and Juli Ford Alhadeff NMLS ID #2728620)
*Register here: https://reversemortgageseminar.net/juli

Stay connected:
Get more info on Reverse Mortgages: https://juliford.com/reverse
Follow Juli on Instagram   / itsjuliford  
Download Juli's Multi-Gen Living Guide: https://juliford.com/multi-gen
Join the “Home After 50” newsletter for weekly inspiration + resources: https://juliford.com