Asset-rich and cash-poor: which older adults value reverse mortgages?

Abstract Home equity represents a substantial share of retirement wealth for many older persons, particularly in Asia where national housing policies have encouraged home-ownership. This paper explored the potential reverse mortgages to help ‘asset-rich and cash-poor’ Singaporeans unlock their home while ageing place. The empirical analysis was based on nationally representative survey home-owners age 50+ 2018 Singapore Life Panel (N = 6,258). Our analyses showed that average home-owner holds some 60 per cent total net equity, suggestive high demand mortgage products. Nevertheless, actual interest such products much below demand. Only one four indicated commercial if these were become available; larger majority had never heard financial product. Interest positively associated with product awareness self-rated understanding. implies critical step towards building consumer would be enhance simplify related contract terms. Having mortgage, fewer children, literacy preparedness also level. These results implications targeted interventions spur mortgages, especially societies people built up through market over time.