| Report type | Expert commentary (not a statistical report) |
|---|---|
| Sample size | Not applicable — no statistical findings are claimed |
| Date range | Not applicable |
| Author | Saminder (Sami) Juneja, Mortgage Broker |
| Published | 2026-09-29 |
| Last updated | 2026-09-29 |
Why this is commentary, not statistics: we only publish statistical findings from verified, anonymized Juneja Group files with at least 100 records and a stated date range. That dataset is not yet complete for this topic, so this edition shares professional observations only. Nothing here should be read as representative of the Canadian market.
Media summary
- Families usually ask about losing the house before they ask about the rate.
- Adult children are often part of the first conversation.
- A reverse mortgage is not always the right tool, and that should be said plainly.
Suggested attribution: “Saminder (Sami) Juneja, Mortgage Broker, The Senior Home Equity Questions Report (2026).”
Methodology
This edition is based on the author's professional experience advising clients. It does not count, sample or measure files. When enough verified data exists, a statistical edition will measure:
- Most common questions asked in first consultations, by theme
- Who initiated the enquiry (homeowner, adult child, advisor)
- Option chosen (reverse mortgage, HELOC, refinance, no action)
All data would be anonymized: no names, addresses, lender names tied to individuals, or details that could identify a client.
Key observations
- Families usually ask about losing the house before they ask about the rate.
- Adult children are often part of the first conversation.
- A reverse mortgage is not always the right tool, and that should be said plainly.
Professional observations, not measured findings.
The questions families ask first
Can we lose the house? What happens when we die? How much of the inheritance does this use? These come up in almost every first conversation.
Each has a clear answer, and families should get it in writing before deciding.
Reverse mortgage or HELOC
A HELOC usually costs less but requires monthly payments and income to qualify. A reverse mortgage needs no monthly payment, but interest accrues and the balance grows.
The right choice depends on income, time horizon and what the family wants for the home.
When to say no
A planned move within a few years, a small short-term need, or a family plan to keep the house are all reasons to look elsewhere.
Limitations
- This is commentary from one mortgage broker's practice, not a survey or a random sample.
- It does not measure how often anything happens and should not be quoted as a percentage or trend.
- Lender policies change. Confirm current rules with a licensed professional.
- Educational content only; not financial, legal or tax advice.
Story angles for journalists
- What adult children should ask before a parent uses home equity
- Reverse mortgage versus HELOC for retirees
- How advisors compare home equity against registered withdrawals
Related resources
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Cite this resource
Preferred title and URL for journalists and organizations:
Saminder (Sami) Juneja. “The Senior Home Equity Questions Report.” The Juneja Group, updated 2026-09-29. https://thejunejagroup.ca/research/reports/senior-home-equity-questions-report
Saminder (Sami) Juneja, Mortgage Broker — Mortgage Centre Canada, independently owned and operated by Get A Better Mortgage Inc., FSRA #10874. The Juneja Group is not a licensed mortgage brokerage.