Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2025: Ratings, Reviews & ARLO™ Insights

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.

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.

Updated for 2025, this expert-backed comparison will help you confidently choose the right reverse mortgage lender for your financial future.

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 of 2025 (National HECM Rankings & BBB Reviews)

• Guide to the Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders in 2025

• What to Compare Before Choosing a Lender

• Frequently Asked Questions

• 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 the time to evaluate your situation, ensuring you choose the reverse mortgage plan that best supports your financial goals and helps you maximize your home equity.

2. Carefully Review Online Customer Feedback

Reading what other customers say about reverse mortgage lenders online is a good idea. However, be cautious about where these reviews originate. Some websites that help companies find customers might not provide honest reviews, as financial incentives can influence their content.

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

Pay attention to recurring issues that appear in the reviews. If you encounter the same problems repeatedly, it’s best to avoid those providers. 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 provide you with 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 third-party fees, such as appraisals, title fees, and credit reports. Lenders can only charge what those services actually cost.

One thing to pay attention to is the lender’s 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 may allow the lender to cover some or all of this cost, saving you money upfront.

That’s why it’s essential to compare different loans and determine which one is best suited to 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.

Below is a comprehensive comparison of the top 20 reverse mortgage lenders in the U.S., ranked by BBB rating, years in business, customer satisfaction, and complaint volume. Data reflects performance and reputation within the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) market as of July 2025.

Top 20 Reverse Mortgage Lenders of 2025 (National HECM Rankings & BBB Reviews)

Lender	BBB Rating	Years in Business	Customer Rating (0–5)	% Positive Reviews	Complaints	Source
All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO)	A+	21	4.98/5	99.6%	0	Source
Atlantic Avenue Mortgage LLC	A+	2	4.94/5	98.8%	2	Source
American Pacific Mortgage	F	28	1.75/5	35.0%	8	Source
Cross Country Mortgage	F	22	1.46/5	29.2%	300	Source
Fairway Independent Mortgage	B+	29	4.48/5	89.6%	28	Source
Finance of America Reverse LLC (FAR)	A+	21	1.00/5	20.0%	37	Source
GMFS Mortgage	A+	26	2.5/5	50.0%	18	Source
Goodlife Home Loans	A+	13	5.0/5	100%	0	Source
Guild Mortgage Company (Formerly Cherry Creek LLC)	A+	64	1.36/5	27.2%	25	Source
HighTechLending Inc	A+	19	4.93/5	98.6%	1	Source
Liberty Home Equity Solutions Inc.	A+	21	1.00/5	20.0%	1	Source
Longbridge Financial LLC	A+	12	3.81/5	76.2%	25	Source
Mid America Mortgage Inc.	A+	66	NA	NA	NA	Source
Moneyhouse	NR	27	NA	NA	0	Source
Movement Mortgage, LLC	A+	17	4.83/5	96.2%	95	Source
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage	A+	12	1.49/5	29.8%	55	Source
Open Mortgage LLC	A+	22	3.67/5	73.4%	1	Source
Plaza Home Mortgage Inc	A+	24	3.44/5	68.8%	7	Source
Smartfi Home Loans	A+	6	1.00/5	29.0%	0	Source
South River Mortgage, LLC	A+	6	3.55/5	71.0%	12	Source

Source: Data compiled from https://www.rminsight.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lenders_202504.pdf RMInsight (Top 20 HECM Lenders, July 2025 and Better Business Bureau reviews updated as of July 7, 2025.

Did You Know? Not all lenders with an A+ BBB rating have good customer satisfaction. Some of the most well-known names have hundreds of complaints and 1-star reviews. Always dig deeper than the rating.

Guide to the Best Reverse Mortgage Lenders in 2025

If you’re researching the best reverse mortgage companies in 2025, one name stands out above the rest: All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™).

🏆 Top-Rated Reverse Mortgage Lender:

All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™) earns the highest overall marks based on trust, experience, and performance:

✅ A+ BBB Rating
✅ 21 years in business
✅ 4.98 out of 5 stars from verified borrowers
✅ 99.6% positive customer reviews
✅ 0 complaints filed

🌟 Other High-Performing Lenders Worth Noting:

HighTechLending Inc. – A+ rating, 4.93/5 stars, 98.6% positive reviews, and only 1 complaint

⚠️ Lenders with Lower Customer Satisfaction:

While some companies have strong name recognition, their customer reviews tell a different story:

Cross Country Mortgage – F BBB rating, 1.46/5 stars, just 29.2% positive reviews, and 300 complaints
Finance of America Reverse (FAR) – A+ BBB, but only 1.00/5 stars and 20% positive reviews
Mutual of Omaha Mortgage – A+ rated, yet just 1.49/5 stars and 55 complaints

💡 Key Takeaway:

Don’t rely on brand name alone. An A+ BBB rating doesn’t guarantee a great borrower experience. Instead, focus on:

Real customer reviews
Complaint history
Experience in reverse mortgages
Transparency of terms and communication

What to Compare Before Choosing a Lender

What to Compare	Why It Matters
Lender Experience & Reviews	HUD-approved lenders with strong public reviews are more trustworthy
Loan Margins & Interest	Lower margins increase loan proceeds and reduce interest paid over time
Closing Costs & Fees	Compare full loan estimates—not just teaser rates or partial fees
Support & Counseling	Great lenders offer pre-loan education and long-term borrower support
Appraisal Independence	Avoid lenders who use in-house appraisers to ensure objective property values
NRMLA Membership	Shows commitment to ethical industry standards and borrower protections
Direct vs. Broker	Direct lenders often provide faster and more transparent service

Ready to Compare for Yourself? Use our reverse mortgage calculator to get a personalized quote with real-time rates, or call us at (800) 565-1722 to speak directly with a knowledgeable advisor at All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™).

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.

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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