Top 20 Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2025: Reviews and Ratings

Q: Who is the highest-rated reverse mortgage company?

To find the best-rated reverse mortgage provider, do your research from our top 20 lenders list and avoid sponsored reviews. Look for reviews on independent sites like the Better Business Bureau, Google, and Yelp.

When used wisely, a reverse mortgage can be a powerful tool for enhancing your retirement. However, choosing the right reverse mortgage lender is key to ensuring long-term financial stability. In this guide, we’ll explain how HECM lenders are rated and how online reviews help paint a clearer picture of their reliability.

To make your decision easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 20 reverse mortgage companies across the nation, along with five essential tips for selecting the lender that’s right for you.

Table of Contents

• 1. Work with a Lender Who Understands Your Needs

• 2. Carefully Review Online Customer Feedback

• 3. Compare All Loan Details, Including Margins and Closing Costs

• 4. Make Sure Your Lender is HUD-Approved

• 5. Avoid Lenders Who Have Their Own Appraisal Services

• Top 20 Reverse Mortgage Lenders: National Rankings

• 2025 Reverse Mortgage Lenders: What to Compare Before You Choose

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Summary: How to Choose the Right Reverse Mortgage Lender

• Information for Past Customers of Inactive Companies

5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Reverse Mortgage Lender

1. Work with a Lender Who Understands Your Needs

It’s crucial to work with a reverse mortgage lender who truly understands your individual needs and long-term goals. A knowledgeable lender won’t just focus on one aspect, like lower fees, but will look at the whole picture—helping you find the most suitable program for your unique circumstances.

For instance, while one lender may offer a slightly lower appraisal fee, saving you a small amount upfront, they might also provide less overall loan value or higher interest rates, which could cost you thousands more in the long run. A good lender will take time to evaluate your situation, ensuring you choose the reverse mortgage plan that best supports your financial goals and helps you make the most of your home equity.

2. Carefully Review Online Customer Feedback

Reading what other customers say about reverse mortgage lenders online is a good idea. But be cautious about where these reviews come from. Some websites that help find customers for these companies might not have honest reviews, as money can influence them.

Instead, look for reviews on reliable sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or Google Ratings. Real customers write reviews on these sites, and lenders can’t change them.

Pay attention to any issues that keep coming up in the reviews. If you see the same problems mentioned repeatedly, avoiding those providers is best. Remember, this loan is for your benefit, not the lender’s. The best reverse mortgage for you is one that fits your specific situation.

What works for some might not be right for you. At All Reverse Mortgage, our goal is to give you all the information you need to make a choice that truly fits your needs rather than just selling you a loan.

3. Compare All Loan Details, Including Margins and Closing Costs

When considering a reverse mortgage, it’s important to compare all aspects of the loan, not just the fees. By law, lenders can’t add extra charges to 3rd party fees such as appraisals, title fees, and credit reports. Lenders can only charge what those services actually cost.

One thing you should pay attention to is the lender margin. A higher lender margin means you could end up paying a lot more in interest over the years, and you might get less money from the loan.

Here’s something else to consider: the Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP) is usually 2.0% of your home’s value, up to a maximum home value of $1,209,750. So, the highest UFMIP could be as much as $24,195.00. Some loan options might let the lender cover some or all of this cost, saving you money upfront.

That’s why it’s important to compare different loans and see which is best for your situation. Don’t just look at the fees; consider how the loan performs over time.

4. Make Sure Your Lender is HUD-Approved

For your protection, verify that your chosen lender is approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You can easily check their approval status by visiting the HUD website and using their Lender List Search tool.

5. Avoid Lenders Who Have Their Own Appraisal Services

It’s best to avoid lenders that use their appraisal services, as this may limit your options and affect the objectivity of your home’s value. Shop around, compare quotes, and ensure the loan officer and the company have the proper qualifications and licensing.

Top 20 Reverse Mortgage Lenders: National Rankings

Lender	BBB Rating	Years in Business	Star Rating (0–5)	Good Review %	Complaints	Source
All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO)	A+	21	4.98/5	99.6%	0	Source
Atlantic Avenue Mortgage LLC	B+	2	4.94/5	98.8%	2	Source
American Pacific Mortgage	F	28	1.75/5	35.0%	8	Source
Cross Country Mortgage	F	21	1.47/5	29.4%	294	Source
Fairway Independent Mortgage	A+	29	4.48/5	89.6%	29	Source
Finance of America Reverse LLC (FAR)	A+	21	1.00/5	20.0%	36	Source
GMFS Mortgage	A+	26	2.5/5	50.0%	17	Source
Goodlife Home Loans	A+	12	5.0/5	100%	0	Source
Guild Mortgage Company (Formerly Cherry Creek LLC)	A+	64	1.36/5	27.2%	28	Source
HighTechLending Inc	A+	19	4.93/5	98.6%	1	Source
Liberty Home Equity Solutions Inc.	A+	21	1.00/5	20.0%	2	Source
Longbridge Financial LLC	A+	12	3.77/5	75.4%	24	Source
Mid America Mortgage Inc.	A+	66	NA	NA	NA	Source
Moneyhouse	NR	27	NA	NA	0	Source
Movement Mortgage, LLC	A+	17	4.81/5	96.2%	98	Source
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage	A+	12	1.49/5	29.8%	49	Source
Open Mortgage LLC	A+	22	3.0/5	60.0%	1	Source
Plaza Home Mortgage Inc	A+	24	3.2/5	64.0%	7	Source
Smartfi Home Loans	A+	6	NA	NA	0	Source
South River Mortgage, LLC	A+	6	3.55/5	71.0%	12	Source

Notes:
BBB Rating: Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F; NR = Not Rated).
Star Rating: Average customer rating out of 5 stars.
Good Review %: Percentage of reviews classified as positive.
Source: Data compiled from national rankings of top 20 HECM (Home Equity Conversion Mortgage) lenders by RMInsight (https://www.rminsight.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lenders_202504.pdf). BBB Reviews updated as of May 28, 2025.

Easy Guide to Top Reverse Mortgage Lenders

The top-performing reverse mortgage lender in 2025 is All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™) with an unmatched combination of:

A+ BBB Rating
21 years in business
4.98/5 star rating
99.6% positive reviews
Zero complaints reported

Other notable standouts include:

Goodlife Home Loans – A+ rated, 5.0/5 stars, 100% positive feedback, and no complaints
HighTechLending Inc. – A+ rated, 4.93/5 stars, 98.6% good reviews, and just 1 complaint

In contrast, several well-known mortgage companies performed poorly:

Cross Country Mortgage – F rating, 1.47/5 stars, only 29.4% positive reviews, with 294 complaints
Finance of America Reverse (FAR) – A+ rating, but just 1.0/5 stars and only 20% positive feedback
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage – A+ rated, yet only 1.49/5 stars and 49 complaints

The data makes it clear: ratings and BBB grades don’t always align. That’s why it’s critical for borrowers to look beyond brand recognition and prioritize transparency, experience, and verified customer satisfaction when choosing a reverse mortgage lender.

2025 Reverse Mortgage Lenders: What to Compare Before You Choose

What to Compare	Why It Matters
Lender Experience & Reputation	Look for HUD-approved lenders with strong reviews on BBB and Google
Loan Margins & Interest Rates	Lower margins mean more loan proceeds and less interest paid over time
Closing Costs & Fees	Compare full loan estimates—not just advertised “low fees”
Counseling & Customer Support	Top lenders offer pre-loan education and responsive, ongoing support
Appraisal Independence	Avoid lenders who use in-house appraisers—this can bias your property valuation
NRMLA Membership	Ensures ethical standards are followed throughout the loan process
Lender Type	Direct lenders often offer better service and quicker turnarounds than brokers

Ready to Choose a Reverse Mortgage Lender You Can Trust? At All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™), we believe trust is earned—not bought through advertising. With over 20 years of experience, zero BBB complaints, and a 4.98/5 customer satisfaction rating, we’re proud to be the top-rated reverse mortgage lender in 2025. Call us Toll-Free at (800) 565-1722 to speak directly with a licensed expert, or compare your options now using our trusted reverse mortgage calculator—simple, secure, and designed with your best interests in mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What banks offer reverse mortgages?

Most major banks exited the reverse mortgage industry years ago. Non-bank lenders, brokers, small banks, and credit unions are now the main sources. While most reverse mortgages are insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and follow the same rules, each lender offers different margins and interest rates.

Who is the highest-rated reverse mortgage company?

To find the best-rated reverse mortgage provider, research from our top 20 lenders list and avoid sponsored reviews. Look for reviews on independent sites like the Better Business Bureau, Google, and Yelp.

Does HUD offer reverse mortgages?

HUD does not originate loans but approves lenders to create federally insured HECM loans. HUD insures these loans and guarantees many features and safeguards.

Are all reverse mortgage companies the same?

No. Every reverse mortgage company operates independently. HUD sets the guidelines but does not originate loans. Make sure your lender is HUD-approved and a member of NRMLA.

How do I know I’m getting the best reverse mortgage?

The best reverse mortgage fits your specific needs. Compare different offers, look at the loan terms, and ensure the lender provides clear documents. Check unbiased reviews from reputable sites like the BBB and Google.

How do reverse mortgage lenders determine the interest rates?

Lenders set interest rates based on their costs and profit margins. Research and compare rates from different lenders. Check HUD’s records for actual loan rates.

Who lends the actual money on a reverse mortgage?

Lenders use warehouse lines of credit to fund loans. HUD insures these loans, which are then pooled and sold as securities. Most reverse mortgages are HUD Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM).

Which reverse mortgage companies have the lowest closing costs?

Closing costs depend on several factors, including interest rates, loan programs, and lenders. It’s important to compare the entire proposal because low closing costs might not be beneficial if they result in a higher margin, leading to fewer loan proceeds and significantly higher interest payments over the loan’s life. We strongly advocate for borrowers to make comparisons. Since interest rates and fees can change, don’t just take our word for it. Look at the actual numbers and decide what’s best for your situation.

Can a reverse mortgage lender change without the homeowner’s knowledge?

Yes, a reverse mortgage lender can sell the loan or change the servicer. The loan terms remain unchanged, and the new lender must notify you.

Can a lender lower the borrower’s benefit amount after the loan closes?

No, the lender cannot change the terms of a reverse mortgage after closing. However, you must meet certain conditions to remain in good standing with the loan.

Summary: How to Choose the Right Reverse Mortgage Lender

Reverse mortgage lenders use various methods to reach out to you. Here’s how to make a wise choice:

Look at Independent Reviews and Offers: Don’t just go by ads. Check independent reviews and compare offers.
Choose HUD-Approved Lenders: These are usually direct lenders, saving you time and money.
Check for NRMLA Membership: Ensure the lender follows NRMLA code of ethics.
Avoid High-Pressure Sales: Avoid lenders who pressure you into quick decisions.
Get Independent Counseling: Counseling helps you understand your options and ensure a reverse mortgage is right for you.

Information for Past Customers of Inactive Companies

Lender
Wells Fargo Reverse Mortgage	Read More
Bank of America Reverse Mortgage	Read More
Financial Freedom Reverse Mortgage	Read More
MetLife Reverse Mortgage	Read More
RMS - Reverse Mortgage Solutions	Read More
LiveWell Financial	Read More
Resolute Bank	Read More

How to Find the Right Reverse Mortgage Lender?

ARLO recommends these helpful resources:

Have a Question About Reverse Mortgages?

Look no further. Michael G. Branson, our CEO, brings a wealth of knowledge directly to you. With a robust 45-year tenure in mortgage banking and 20 years dedicated solely to reverse mortgages, he's the expert you want on your side.

Post your question in the comments below and anticipate a personalized response from Mr. Branson himself, typically within one business day. He's here to illuminate all angles of reverse mortgages, ensuring you're equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Take this opportunity to gain insights from a seasoned professional.

2 Comments on this Article

David R.
September 4th, 2024

In your opinion, who are the best lenders to consider that provide great customer service?
Reply to David
- Michael Branson
  September 4th, 2024
  
  Hi David,
  I'm obviously biased, but I would say All Reverse Mortgage. However, I can also point to our 4.99 out of 5 stars rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and encourage you to read what actual clients have to say. The BBB and sites like Google ratings feature honest reviews from real consumers who have used our services, unlike some rating sites that exist solely to collect information to sell to lenders. These are genuine reviews from borrowers who have experienced our service firsthand.
  We are passionate about doing the right thing for our customers and putting their needs first. That's one of the most important aspects of customer service, especially when it comes to reverse mortgages. HUD controls much of the process, such as appraisals and other factors that determine how much money borrowers receive, which are beyond the lender's control. However, aspects like the margin and fees, which we consistently encourage borrowers to compare, are within the lender's control. Many borrowers find they can save money and receive more in their loan by choosing All Reverse Mortgage.
  We specialize solely in reverse mortgages. For 20 years, we've focused all our efforts on originating and closing reverse mortgages. It's not just a sideline for us, it's the only type of loan we handle. We dedicate all our resources to being the best in the reverse mortgage industry, and our customer ratings reflect our success.
  I apologize if I didn't answer your question exactly as expected, but I don't often get a chance to highlight our strengths. I'm proud of our team, most of whom have been with us for over 10 years, and many since the beginning. Their passion and dedication to providing excellent customer service are why we maintain such high ratings on platforms like the BBB. So when you compare proposals from us with other lenders, remember that we offer not only fantastic rates and terms, but also a deep commitment to customer care. If our past customers' reviews are any indication, All Reverse Mortgage is a lender to seriously consider for exceptional customer service!
  Reply to Michael

Best Reverse Mortgages of 2025

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