If you are 62 years old or older, reverse mortgages can help homeowners access their accumulated home equity without facing monthly payments. Some seniors are using these reverse mortgages to finance their future retirement income. They can provide cash when other retirement income sources fail to adequately finance their needs. This home equity can be a large part of an owner’s net worth, which makes it valuable in the long run. However, when providing a bequest to heirs by allowing them to sell your home, a reverse mortgage can eliminate a majority of the equity in your home. So, it is important to understand exactly how reverse mortgages can fit into your financial future and estate plan.