Author Archives

Reverse Mortgage Refinance: 2025 Rules, Eligibility, Limits & Rates

November 14, 2025     62 comments

If you are considering a reverse mortgage refinance, you are not alone.  Over time, your home value, your needs, and HUD’s rules can all change.  A refinance can help you access more equity, protect a younger spouse, lower interest costs, or move into a loan that fits your situation today. In this guide, I explain when refinancing makes sense, the...
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2025 Jumbo Reverse Mortgage Guide: Top Lenders, Rates & Loan Limits

October 29, 2025     16 comments

In 2025, the landscape of reverse mortgages continues to evolve, with jumbo reverse mortgages (also known as proprietary or private reverse mortgages) emerging as a significant option for homeowners with high-value or non-conforming/non-FHA insured properties. In this article, we will dissect the significant differences between jumbo and FHA-insured reverse mortgages, clarifying why and when a jumbo reverse mortgage could be...
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2025 Guide to Reverse Mortgage Purchase (HECM Purchase)

October 22, 2025     16 comments

Updated: 10/22/2025 Welcome to our 2025 Guide to Reverse Mortgage Purchase (HECM for Purchase).  This year’s update reflects the latest HUD rule changes, including new allowances for 6% seller contributions, expanded gift funding options, and updated property requirements. If you’re planning to move, downsize, or relocate closer to family, a reverse mortgage can help you buy your next home without...
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Reverse Mortgage Qualifications & Requirements (2025 Guide) – See If You Qualify

October 19, 2025     18 comments

If you're a homeowner age 62 or older and want access to a portion of your home equity without selling or taking on new required monthly payments, a reverse mortgage may be an option.  But you must meet HUD’s 2025 eligibility criteria for income, property, equity, and now citizenship status. This guide explains every qualification you need to know for...
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Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2025 – Rates, Reviews & How to Choose

October 13, 2025     2 comments

Looking for the best reverse mortgage lender in 2025?  Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or comparing interest rates and closing costs, this guide breaks down the top reverse mortgage companies based on verified reviews, BBB ratings, complaint history, and lender transparency.  How We Chose the Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders in 2025 Choosing a reverse mortgage lender is...
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Return of Non-FHA Reverse Mortgages are Here!

October 4, 2025     32 comments

If you're in the market for a loan that can convert your home equity into cash flow or a line of credit in retirement, chances are you have explored the option of a reverse mortgage. However, the reverse mortgage is not a one-size-fits-all solution.  Many people are unaware that there are several products to choose from, including both Federal Housing Administration...
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Dave Ramsey Offering Bad Advice on Reverse Mortgages

October 1, 2025     14 comments

Does Dave Ramsey know much about reverse mortgages?  Dave does a hit piece on reverse mortgages, pointing out some of the less popular aspects of the loan.  However, he is either OK with exaggerating the truth or reveals his ignorance about how reverse mortgages work. [arlo_toc] Is Dave right about Reverse Mortgages? Firstly, let’s...
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How Government Shutdowns Affect Reverse Mortgages

September 29, 2025     2 comments

FHA & HECM Operations During a Federal Government Shutdown When the U.S. government shuts down because Congress hasn’t approved funding, many HUD and FHA offices run with limited staff and services.  For the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program, here’s what matters: What Stays Open Loan Servicing & Payments — If you already have a HECM, your monthly draws and...
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Reverse Mortgage Age Requirements in 2025

September 27, 2025     22 comments

If you’re exploring a reverse mortgage, the first question is simple: how old do you need to be? Quick Answer:  For a federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), the most common reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years old when the loan closes.  That rule remains unchanged for 2025. Some private or "jumbo" reverse mortgages allow borrowers as...
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Reverse Mortgage Property Requirements – New for 2025

September 26, 2025     130 comments

I would like to know the exact reverse mortgage property requirements, such as central heating, water wells, septic systems, etc.  To hear these reverse mortgages advertised, one might get the impression that getting one is very simple.  However, after some preliminary inquiries, it's beginning to look like everything else involving the government can become incredibly complicated. Updated September 2025 with...
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