The Divorce Allies Podcast

Reverse Mortgages and Grey Divorce - An Empowering Divorce Podcast

The Divorce Allies

Welcome to The Divorce Allies Podcast, where we bring wisdom, strategy, and support from powerhouse professionals helping women navigate every phase of divorce. In this episode, we're diving into the often misunderstood world of reverse mortgages, particularly how they can serve as a strategic financial tool in gray and silver divorce

Our guest, Renee Coleman, is a reverse mortgage specialist and Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP), who breaks down the misconceptions, benefits, and creative uses of reverse mortgages for divorcing individuals later in life. Alongside Melissa Gragg, financial mediator and divorce expert, we explore how women can better advocate for themselves, maximize home equity, and make informed decisions during one of life’s most complex transitions.

5 Key Takeaways:

A Reverse Mortgage Is Simply an Equity Loan
Despite the myths, a reverse mortgage allows homeowners (usually age 62+) to tap into home equity without monthly payments. The loan balance is repaid when the homeowner sells the property or passes away.

It's a Powerful Strategy in Gray Divorce
Reverse mortgages can help one spouse retain the marital home by tapping equity to buy out the other spouse — creating immediate liquidity without the burden of new mortgage payments.

Reverse Mortgages Aren’t a Last Resort
The outdated reputation of reverse mortgages is changing. Used early, they can support tax planning, healthcare needs, retirement income, or even purchasing a new home—allowing seniors to access equity while preserving cash flow.

Transparency With Family Is Key
Many adult children are unaware when their parents take out reverse mortgages. Open communication helps set expectations and ensures everyone understands how the loan affects the estate.

Reverse Mortgages Can Help Both Spouses After Divorce
In some cases, both divorcing spouses can leverage reverse mortgages: one uses it to stay in the marital home, while the other uses proceeds to purchase a new property—allowing both to remain homeowners without traditional mortgages.

Connect with Renee Coleman

Email Renee: renee.guidaboni@ccm.com

Melissa Gragg's website

Emile Flower's website

The Divorce Allies