Not to be a pessimist, but if you can qualify alone, I would suggest you buy the house first then get married. Start with a pre-approval to see what you qualify for and take it from there. Marriage is a wonderful thing, but there are no guarantees. I'd be happy to assist you in getting started.

Another option to consider if you are 62 is take out a reverse mortgage for the home purchase. This way you don't need to put all of your cash down on the house. Maybe 50% down, then you won't have to make a mortgage payment at all. Just keep the property taxes and homeowners insurance paid at all times, Keep the other 50% in your investment portfolio and hopefully your financial advisor can make it grow for you.

Marriage or Homeownership...? The age old question. Cash is king... Purchasing a home with a 20 - 25% down payment 1st would be my suggestion. You wouldn't use all your cash purchasing your home, nor having paid for a wedding. Instead you would us a portion and have the rest there as part of your total loan profile. Since you are in Beverly Hills, the Super Jumbo mortgage market likes to see the cash on hand, depending on the rest of the particulars of course - and we specialize in Super Jumbo mortgages. By putting 20 - 25% down you would have access to great interest rates and financing options. Then once in your new home.....pick a bathroom draw and give it the that lucky someone. When you decide to get married you will still have your cash on hand - and already be in your new home. Hope I can help when you are ready to make the plunge. (purchasing the home that is.....still working on becoming ordained)

I would suggest that you ask your fiancee and financial planner.