#1 RATED REVERSE MORTGAGE.

Reverse Mortgage Definition and Glossary (A-Z)

September 1, 2025     75 comments

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 and can be repaid at any time. Most borrowers repay the loan when they sell their property, move out, or pass away. HECM reverse mortgages are insured by the Federal... Read Full Article

Top 10 Reverse Mortgage Counseling Agencies (Free & Online Availability)

September 1, 2025     17 comments

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires that homeowners considering a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) receive essential counseling.  This counseling, provided by a HUD-approved HECM agency, covers the details and alternatives of reverse mortgages. To assist you, we are required to offer a list of approved reverse mortgage counseling agencies.  This list includes five nationwide companies as specified by HUD for HECM, alongside local agencies near you.  The number of nearby agencies varies; some borrowers may have several options, while others might need to travel further... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Occupancy Requirements Explained

September 1, 2025     72 comments

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 month, they would not recall the loan.  What I am reading here seems contradictory to what we were told.  We were also told about having 12 months to sell or... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Income Requirements in 2025

September 1, 2025     46 comments

Understanding Reverse Mortgage Income Requirements Welcome to our 2025 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 insurance, and maintenance costs, after securing a reverse mortgage. We will provide clear, easy-to-follow tables that detail the minimum residual income needed based on your family size and the region of the... Read Full Article

History of the Reverse Mortgage – 1969 to Present Day Facts

September 1, 2025     4 comments

Bringing it to the Senate Reverse mortgages have been through many changes in their short, 57-year (depending on who you ask) lifespan.  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 in her home after her husband passed away. From there, the product took off and continues to help more older Americans remain in their homes... Read Full Article

3 Types of Reverse Mortgages Explained: Which One Is Right for You?

September 1, 2025     5 comments

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 are ideal for homes with higher values. Single-Purpose Reverse Mortgages: A cost-effective choice for specific financial goals. We'll break down the key features of each, highlight how they can support... Read Full Article

Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2025 – Rates, Reviews & How to Choose

August 25, 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 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

Reverse Mortgage Refinance 2025 | HECM Limits & Rates

August 25, 2025     60 comments

Thinking about refinancing your reverse mortgage?  HUD’s rules and FHA lending limits continue to evolve, and 2025 brings some significant updates. This guide will walk you through today’s HECM refinance opportunities, current rates, and protections you should know before starting an application. When to Refinance Your Reverse Mortgage Your home value has increased considerably. You obtained your loan when the lending limit was below today’s 2025 HECM limit of . You want to add a younger spouse who was previously ineligible, ensuring long-term protections and possible access to... Read Full Article

2025 Guide to Reverse Mortgage Purchase (HECM Purchase)

August 24, 2025     16 comments

Updated: 9/19/2025 Welcome to our guide on Purchase Reverse Mortgages!  In this article, we explain how you can buy a new home utilizing a reverse mortgage loan, making it easier to transition as you age.  Whether you’re downsizing, moving to a more accessible home, or relocating closer to family, this guide is for you. We’ll cover the essentials, from the benefits of a Reverse Mortgage Purchase to how the purchase program works, to help you decide if this option is right for you. Reverse Mortgage Purchase Basics The HECM... Read Full Article

Banks That Offer Reverse Mortgages in 2025 | Compare Rates & Reviews

August 11, 2025     no comments

In 2025, only a small number of 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. Do Banks Offer Reverse Mortgages in 2025? While large national banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Chase are familiar names for traditional mortgages, they no longer offer reverse mortgages.  Most exited the market over a decade ago, citing regulatory changes, market risk,... Read Full Article