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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... Read Full Article
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If you're exploring a reverse mortgage, the first question is simple: how old do you need to be? For the federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), you must be at least 62 when the loan closes. That requirement remains the same for 2026. Your age also plays a direct role in how much you qualify for, since older borrowers... Read Full Article
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Updated September 2025 with the latest HUD 4000.1 rules on ADUs, manufactured homes, and PACE liens [arlo_toc] Understanding HUD’s Property Standards When applying for a reverse mortgage, your home must meet specific property standards set by HUD. These requirements ensure the property is safe, sound, and secure, but they can vary depending on your specific situation. For instance, a home... Read Full Article
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If you've applied for a reverse mortgage and found that you don't qualify — or the amount offered isn't enough to pay off your existing mortgage — you're not alone. Many homeowners are surprised when changing interest rates or updated HUD limits reduce the proceeds they're eligible for. The good news? Even if you don't qualify today, you still have... Read Full Article
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[arlo_toc] Reverse Mortgage (Definition): A reverse mortgage is a home loan for borrowers typically aged 62 and older that allows you to convert a portion of your home equity into tax-free cash without required monthly mortgage payments. You retain title and are responsible for continuing to pay property taxes and homeowner's insurance. Interest accrues and is added to your balance... Read Full Article
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We live with my mother-in-law and were present throughout the process of her getting a reverse mortgage. The broker is fully aware that we live there with her, help keep up the property, and pay living expenses. He told us if she ever needed to go to a nursing home, if she was in the home at least once a... Read Full Article
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Understanding Reverse Mortgage Income Requirements Welcome to our 2026 guide on reverse mortgage income requirements. This article explains the financial assessment underwriting guidelines, specifically the minimum residual income requirements established by HUD. These requirements play a crucial role in the lender's application process, ensuring that you, as a borrower, can comfortably manage ongoing property-related expenses, such as property taxes, homeowners... Read Full Article
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[arlo_toc] [table id=652 /] Bringing It to the Senate Reverse mortgages have undergone many changes in their 65-year lifespan (depending on who you ask). As the story goes, a small, local bank wrote the first reverse mortgage in 1961 to a woman in Portland, Maine. The bank owner wanted to help the wife of his high school football coach stay... Read Full Article
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If you're exploring ways to use your home's equity to improve your financial security in retirement, it's helpful to know that there are three main types of reverse mortgages, each designed for different needs. In this article, we'll explain: Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM): The most popular, federally insured option. Proprietary Reverse Mortgages: Also known as "jumbo" reverse mortgages, these... Read Full Article
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In 2026, only a few regional and specialty banks offer reverse mortgages, including University Bank, The Federal Savings Bank, and Magnolia Bank. Most large banks left the market years ago, so many borrowers choose specialized non-bank lenders for better rates and service. [arlo_toc] Do Banks Offer Reverse Mortgages in 2026? While large national banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America,... Read Full Article