Liberty Reverse Mortgage (PHH) Shuts Down: Sells 40,000 Borrower Portfolio

November 27, 2025     2 comments

Senior homeowners are losing another major source for reverse mortgages.  Onity Group, the parent company of PHH and Liberty Reverse Mortgage, recently announced that it will stop originating reverse mortgages and will sell its reverse mortgage servicing portfolio. Liberty has long been one of the largest lenders in the space, with 12 active branches and 138 sponsored loan officers based on NMLS, so this marks a significant shift in the industry. Unfortunately, this isn’t new.  Large financial companies often change direction, especially when regulations or internal priorities shift.  Over the... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Payoff at 95% Appraised Value — Can Heirs Buy the Home?

November 23, 2025     29 comments

Hello All Reverse, I've read through your website and the Q&A section, and I'm confused by a few points. I'm hoping you can explain what really happens with my mother's home and whether her grandchildren are allowed to buy it. Your site says a reverse mortgage is non-recourse, so the estate doesn't have to pay the difference if the home sells to a third party for less than the loan balance. But the same section says family members can buy the home for 95% of the appraised value. I also... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Refinance 2026 — HUD Rules, 5x Benefit Test & MIP Credits

November 14, 2025     64 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 2026 HUD rules and limits that apply, and what you can expect from start to finish. Homeowners usually consider refinancing when one or more of the following apply: Your... Read Full Article

How to Buy a Home With a Reverse Mortgage in 2026 – HECM Purchase Guide

October 22, 2025     18 comments

If you're thinking about moving, downsizing, or getting closer to family, a reverse mortgage can help you buy your next home without taking on a monthly mortgage payment. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that you can use a reverse mortgage to purchase a home in one simple transaction. You bring a down payment, the reverse mortgage covers the rest, and you live in the home as your primary residence. This 2026 guide walks you through how a reverse mortgage purchase works, who qualifies, the typical down payment required, and... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Qualifications 2026 — Age, Equity, Income, Credit & Citizenship Requirements

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 eligibility criteria for income, property, equity, and citizenship status. This guide explains every qualification you need to know, including HUD policy changes and how lenders evaluate applicants. Quick Eligibility Checklist To qualify for an FHA-insured HECM reverse mortgage, you must: Be 62 or older (youngest borrower or eligible non-borrowing spouse... Read Full Article

Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2026 – Rates, Reviews & How to Choose

October 13, 2025     2 comments

Looking for the best reverse mortgage lender in 2026? 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 2026 Choosing a reverse mortgage lender is a major financial decision, one that can impact your retirement security for years to come. That's why this list isn't based on sponsored links or paid placements. Our rankings are... Read Full Article

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 (FHA) Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM) and private loan options. Quick Takeaway: If your home is worth more than the FHA limit of or you're younger than... Read Full Article

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. Is Dave Right About Reverse Mortgages? Firstly, let's give Dave his due when he tells the truth. He is right when he says a reverse mortgage operates in reverse of a standard or forward loan. Instead of a... Read Full Article

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 scheduled payments from HUD-held loans will continue. Payoff Requests — You or your heirs can still request payoff statements or subordinations for Secretary-held HECM liens, though processing may take longer.... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Age Requirements for 2026 with Chart/Examples

September 27, 2025     22 comments

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 receive a higher percentage of their home's value. Some private or jumbo reverse mortgages start as early as age 55, though these loans are not FHA-insured and follow different rules.... Read Full Article