#355: Reverse Mortgages Explained – Using Equity to Create Cash Flow in Retirement

This week, the Property Trio unpack reverse mortgages after a thoughtful listener question from Simon about funding retirement without selling property.

It’s a classic accumulation-to-income pivot, and one many investors leave too late. While accessing equity instead of triggering capital gains tax sounds appealing, reverse mortgages are a cash flow tool, not a wealth strategy. Compounding interest can erode equity over time, and lending limits are age-based and typically restricted to owner-occupied homes. Importantly, there’s no CGT advantage.

The Trio emphasise that while reverse mortgages can play a role later in life, the most optimal outcomes come from proactive, long-term planning.

The Property Trio is:

David Johnston, Mortgage Broker - Managing Director of Property Planning Australia https://propertyplanning.com.au/

Cate Bakos, Buyers Advocate - Managing Director of Cate Bakos Property https://www.catebakos.com.au/

Mike Mortlock, Quantity Surveyor - Managing Director of MCG Quantity Surveyors https://www.mcgqs.com.au/

📩 Got a question you want answered in a future episode? Send it through https://www.propertytrio.com.au/contact-us/

You can find more info about topics covered in today's show here:
https://www.propertytrio.com.au/2026/03/30/listener-question-reverse-mortgages/