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

Reverse Mortgage Property Requirements – New for 2025/2026

September 26, 2025     134 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 the latest HUD 4000.1 rules on ADUs, manufactured homes, and PACE liens Understanding HUD’s Property Standards When applying for a reverse mortgage, your home must meet specific property standards... Read Full Article

Shocking Truth About Condominiums and Reverse Mortgages

September 16, 2025     82 comments

Many senior borrowers eligible for reverse mortgages or about to become qualified and live in condominium projects have yet to learn of the surprises that may be waiting for them. You may know neighbors who live in your project, currently have reverse mortgage financing, and have heard about how easy it was. Unfortunately, changes in condominiums and HUD programs in the past few years have changed much of this. If you live in a condominium, before you start making plans that include a reverse mortgage, you should know about the... Read Full Article

5 Options When You Don’t Qualify for a Reverse Mortgage (2025 Guide)

September 15, 2025     2 comments

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 options. In this guide, we'll explore five strategies that can help you move forward. Why You Might Not Qualify for a Reverse Mortgage Several factors determine how much money... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Definition, Key Terms & A-Z Glossary

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

HUD requires every homeowner considering a HECM to complete independent counseling before the loan process can begin. A HUD-approved counselor will explain how the program works, your responsibilities, and any alternatives so you can decide whether a reverse mortgage is the right fit. We provide a list of approved counseling agencies to help you get started. HUD identifies five national agencies that serve borrowers everywhere, and some areas also have local in-person options. Most homeowners choose phone counseling. It is offered through toll-free numbers, meets all HUD requirements, and is... Read Full Article

Reverse Mortgage Occupancy Requirements Explained

September 1, 2025     76 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