Which type of consumer would benefit most from a reverse mortgage?

A reverse mortgage is specifically designed to assist older homeowners, typically those aged 62 years and older, in accessing the equity they have built up in their homes. This financial product allows seniors to convert part of their home equity into cash, which can help them manage living expenses, healthcare costs, or other financial needs without requiring monthly mortgage payments.

In the context of the options provided, a couple in their late 60s needing to access home equity is the most fitting scenario since they meet the age requirement for a reverse mortgage and are likely to benefit from the cash flow without the burden of repayments during their lifetime, as long as they live in the home, maintain it, and continue to pay property taxes and insurance.

Other options, such as a young couple looking to buy their first home or an investor looking for rental properties, do not align with the nature of reverse mortgages, as they typically do not have access to this type of financing. Similarly, while a retiree wanting to renovate their house might benefit from financial assistance, they may not be as aligned with the primary demographic for reverse mortgages when considering the necessity and primary purpose of tapping into home equity.