Experience Excellence with North Carolina’s Top Reverse Mortgage Lender

For over 20 years, All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™) has helped North Carolina homeowners access their home equity through HUD-approved HECM and jumbo reverse mortgages. As North Carolina’s #1 Rated Reverse Mortgage Lender, we hold an A+ BBB rating with perfect 5-star reviews and zero complaints — a record that earned us recognition as a BBB Torch Award for Ethics Finalist three years running.

As a HUD-approved direct lender and proud member of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA), we specialize exclusively in reverse mortgages — it’s all we’ve done since 2004. North Carolina’s growing popularity as a retirement destination means homeowners across the state are increasingly exploring reverse mortgages as a planning tool — from established neighborhoods in Charlotte’s Myers Park and SouthPark to the mountain communities around Asheville and Highlands, the research triangle suburbs of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and coastal retreats along the Outer Banks and Wilmington’s Wrightsville Beach. With an average home value of $383,400, most North Carolina homeowners qualify comfortably within HECM lending limits, while higher-value properties in Charlotte, the mountains, and along the coast may benefit from a jumbo reverse mortgage. Our team has the expertise to help you evaluate both options and choose the program that best fits your financial goals.

Whether your goal is to eliminate monthly mortgage payments, create a financial safety net with a growing line of credit, or access equity for retirement planning, we’re here to help you choose the right program with competitive rates and lower costs. Let us show you the difference two decades of dedicated experience can make.

North Carolina Reverse Mortgage Eligibility & Key Facts

North Carolina reverse mortgage statistics showing 930,000 homeowners age 62 and older, 958 reverse mortgages closed in the last 12 months, 54 active lenders, and an average North Carolina home value of $383,400.

Top 10 Reverse Mortgage Cities in North Carolina
1   Charlotte
2   Wilmington
3   Asheville
4   Flat Rock
5   Raleigh
6   New London
7   Concord
8   Winston-Salem
9   Gastonia
10   Durham

Data by MCA (January 2026)

Latest North Carolina Reverse Mortgage Statistics

StateHomeowners Age 62+Reverse Mortgages Closed Last 12 MonthsLenders in North CarolinaAvg. Home Value
North Carolina930,00095854$383,400

How this data was derived: Reverse mortgage counts reflect FHA-insured HECM loans endorsed over a rolling 12-month period (Dec 2024–Nov 2025) using HUD HECM Snapshot data. Active lenders represent unique FHA sponsor numbers with at least one endorsed loan during this period. Estimated homeowners age 62+ are based on U.S. Census ACS 5-year owner-occupied households age 65+ as a conservative proxy. Home values are sourced from Zillow’s Home Value Index (latest available).

Top Reverse Mortgage Lenders in North Carolina

LenderBBB RatingAccreditedYears in BusinessCustomer Rating (0–5)% Positive ReviewsComplaintsSource
All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO)A+YES214.94/599.0%0Source
American Pacific MortgageFNO281.75/535.0%6Source
CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC.FYES221.43/529.0%303Source
Fairway Independent MortgageA+YES294.51/590.0%26Source
Finance of America Reverse LLC (FAR)A+YES223.71/574.0%36Source
Goodlife Home LoansA+YES13N/A (Not enough reviews)N/A (Not enough reviews)1Source
Guaranteed RateA+YES262.25/5450%45Source
Guild Mortgage Company LLCA+NO651.55/531.0%73Source
HighTechLending IncA+YES194.94/599.0%1Source
Liberty Home Equity Solutions Inc.A+NO221.00/520.0%1Source
Longbridge Financial LLCA+YES133.77/575.0%34Source
Luminate BankNRNO84NANANASource
MCM HoldingsA+YES27NANANASource
The Money HouseNRNO28NANA0Source
Movement Mortgage, LLCA+NO184.43/589.0%92Source
Mutual of Omaha MortgageA+YES123.31/566.0%65Source
New American FundingA+YES264.65/593.0%147Source
Plaza Home Mortgage IncA+YES242.67/553.0%6Source
Smartfi Home LoansA+YES6N/A (Not enough reviews)N/A (Not enough reviews)0Source
South River Mortgage, LLCA+NO63.79/576.0%14Source
Source: Data compiled from https://www.rminsight.net/hecm-lenders-september-2025/ RMInsight (Top 20 HECM Lenders, October 1, 2025 and Better Business Bureau reviews updated as of December 10, 2025)

North Carolina Reverse Mortgage Lending Limits

North Carolina, often called the “Tar Heel State,” is home to over 10.8 million people as of 2026. Of this population, more than 1.15 million are homeowners aged 62 or older, meaning many North Carolinians may qualify for a reverse mortgage.

As of January 2026, the median home value in North Carolina is $383,400. This amount is well within the federal reverse mortgage lending limit of $1,249,125, allowing most homeowners in the state to take advantage of the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program. If your home’s value exceeds this limit, jumbo reverse mortgages can provide a way to tap into even more equity.

North Carolina has deep historical significance as one of the original 13 colonies. In recent decades, the state has emerged as a banking, agriculture, and tourism powerhouse. Charlotte has grown into the second-largest banking center in the nation, while the Research Triangle continues to attract professionals and retirees alike. The state’s diverse landscapes — from the Appalachian Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway to the Outer Banks — along with its temperate climate and lower cost of living compared to the Northeast, have made it one of the fastest-growing retirement destinations in the country.

If you’re a homeowner aged 62 or older in North Carolina, a reverse mortgage could be a valuable financial tool for your retirement. Whether you’re looking to eliminate monthly mortgage payments or access additional funds from your home’s equity, All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™) is here to help. We’re ready to answer your questions and guide you through the process.

Essential Protections for North Carolina Borrowers

North Carolina adheres to federal reverse mortgage regulations while ensuring strong consumer protections through its general lending laws. Here’s what you need to know about the safeguards in place for reverse mortgage borrowers in North Carolina:

  1. Mandatory Counseling — Before applying for a reverse mortgage, you must complete a HUD-approved counseling session. This ensures you fully understand the loan’s terms, costs, and potential alternatives. Counseling can be done over the phone or in person, and the certificate of completion must be provided to your lender.
  2. Cooling-Off Period — Federal law requires a mandatory waiting period after counseling and before closing the loan. This gives you time to carefully review the terms, discuss the decision with family or advisors, and ensure a reverse mortgage is the right choice for your financial goals.
  3. No Tied Financial Products — Lenders in North Carolina are prohibited from requiring you to purchase additional financial products, such as annuities or insurance, as a condition of obtaining a reverse mortgage. This protection ensures the loan process remains fair and free from unnecessary financial pressure.
  4. Clear Disclosures — Lenders must provide detailed disclosures about the loan’s terms, including interest rates, fees, and repayment obligations. They are also required to inform you that you remain responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, and home maintenance. Failure to meet these obligations could result in foreclosure.
  5. Licensed Lenders — All reverse mortgage lenders operating in North Carolina must be licensed by the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks. This ensures lenders meet state standards for transparency, professionalism, and ethical practices.
  6. Non-Recourse Loans — Reverse mortgages in North Carolina are non-recourse loans, meaning you or your heirs will never owe more than the home’s value at the time the loan is repaid. This protection ensures you won’t be burdened with excess debt if the loan balance exceeds the home’s worth.
  7. Spousal Protections — If you have a non-borrowing spouse, North Carolina lenders must follow federal HUD guidelines to protect their right to remain in the home after the borrowing spouse passes away or moves out, provided they meet certain requirements.

HUD-Approved Reverse Mortgage Counseling Agencies in North Carolina

NameAgency IDAddressPhoneWeb Site
CAROLINA COMMUNITY IMPACT INC.908003725 National Dr, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27612-4066(866) 635-6414N/A
CCCS OF GREATER GREENSBORO81413315 E Washington St, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27401-2911(336) 373-8882fspcares.org
CENTRE FOR HOME OWNERSHIP & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION84908120 Sessoms Dr, Rich Square, North Carolina, 27869-9603(919) 322-8118homeownershipcentre.org
CONSUMER EDUCATION SERVICES, INC846763725 National Dr Ste 160, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27612-4832(877) 322-8824cesisolutions.org
CREDIT.ORG - NORTH CAROLINA BRANCH90799615 Saint George Square Ct, Winston Salem, North Carolina, 27103-1356(336) 494-6032credit.org
HOUSING FOUNDATION OF AMERICA, GREENSBORO BRANCH90504122 N Elm St Ste 525, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27401-2875(800) 579-4119homeapproved.org
NAVICORE SOLUTIONS- RALEIGH, NC848734917 Waters Edge Dr, Raleigh, North Carolina, 27606-5416(866) 472-4557navicoresolutions.org
The information presented in this table was obtained from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at https://answers.hud.gov/housingcounseling as of January 23, 2026.

Did you know? North Carolina does not mandate in-person counseling. Visit our counseling page for a list of phone-based counseling agencies, and you can conduct your required counseling from the comfort of your home.


Frequently Asked Questions: North Carolina-Specific Answers

Q.

Are there any North Carolina specific laws or regulations for reverse mortgages that differ from those in other states?

Yes. There are a few key aspects of reverse mortgage loans that differ in North Carolina compared to other states. First, the state of North Carolina has one of the longest cooling-off periods that we are aware of. In North Carolina, the cooling-off period is 20 business days from the date the borrower(s) sign the initial loan application. This does not include weekends or holidays, so it usually ends up being around 30 calendar days when it is all said and done. During this cooling-off period, you can still have services completed, such as the appraisal, but the loan cannot be consummated until the 20 days have elapsed. Additionally, North Carolina does not permit a mortgage broker to originate reverse mortgage loans. Only a lender is permitted to accept an application for a reverse mortgage in North Carolina. Lastly, North Carolina is referred to as an “Attorney State,” which means the closing for the loan must be completed by an attorney rather than a notary, which increases the closing costs slightly compared to states that do not require an attorney.
Q.

Will a reverse mortgage affect my Homestead Exclusion property tax benefit in North Carolina?

No, having a reverse mortgage will not affect your eligibility for the North Carolina Homestead Exclusion. The Homestead Exclusion is available to North Carolina residents aged 65+ or who are totally/permanently disabled. There are income limits ($38,800 as of 2025) and the program excludes the greater of $25,000 or 50% of the appraised tax value for a primary residence. Additionally, since this is an exemption/exclusion, it has no impact on a reverse mortgage loan and is fully compatible with one.
Q.

Can I participate in North Carolina’s Circuit Breaker Tax Deferment Program if I have a reverse mortgage?

No, you may not participate in any tax deferral program while you have a reverse mortgage. All reverse mortgage programs prohibit participation in a tax deferral program and require that you pay your taxes on time when they come due in order for the loan to remain in good standing. If you are currently participating in the Circuit Breaker program and wish to obtain a reverse mortgage, you will be required to cancel participation and pay all deferred taxes at the time of closing in order to be eligible for the loan. After closing, you must continue to pay all taxes on the home as they come due. Any future participation in a tax deferral program after obtaining a reverse mortgage loan will result in the loan being called due and payable.
Q.

How does a reverse mortgage affect NC Medicaid eligibility?

Having a reverse mortgage loan on your home in and of itself does not usually affect your eligibility for North Carolina Medicaid. It is our understanding that NC Medicaid eligibility is determined by household income and residency. Funds available to you in your reverse mortgage line of credit should not be factored into that equation. However, if you advance funds from a reverse mortgage loan to your bank account and leave the funds there, there is a possibility you could compromise your eligibility if the state also reviews your bank accounts to determine eligibility. It is important to consult with an elder law attorney before getting a reverse mortgage if you’re receiving or planning to apply for NC Medicaid.
Q.

What is North Carolina’s Medicaid Estate Recovery Program, and how does it relate to reverse mortgages?

North Carolina’s Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) allows the State of North Carolina to recoup funds for long-term care services, which include nursing home and in-home care costs, from the recipient’s probate estate after their death. Usually it is limited to assets that were solely in the deceased recipient’s name, including their home. Recovery is usually waived if there is a surviving spouse, a child under the age of 21, or a disabled child. When you have a reverse mortgage on your home, the reverse mortgage loan is repaid first from the sale proceeds upon death, and any Medicaid Estate Recovery claim would be secondary to secured debts, which would include the reverse mortgage. This means that both the reverse mortgage lender and the state may have claims against the home’s equity when you pass away, potentially leaving less for your heir(s).
Q.

Does my spouse need to be on the reverse mortgage in North Carolina?

Short answer is no. Your spouse does not have to be a borrower on the reverse mortgage loan. That said, your spouse must always be involved in the loan process, even if they will be a non-borrowing spouse. Reverse mortgage loan guidelines require that, at a bare minimum, your spouse must do the counseling with you and sign specific documents acknowledging the reverse mortgage loan and what their rights are (if any) as a non-borrowing spouse. It is definitely preferred if your spouse can be a co-borrower with you on any reverse mortgage loan you take out, as that will provide the best-case scenario for them should you predecease your spouse. Additionally, not all programs have the same rules and protections for non-borrowing spouses. For example, on the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), there is a deferral option for “Eligible” non-borrowing spouses, whereas Proprietary or “Jumbo” reverse mortgages do not.
Q.

Can I place my reverse mortgage in a living trust in North Carolina?

Maybe. Unlike traditional or “forward” mortgages, reverse mortgage loans may be closed in the name of the trust. It is a common practice in the traditional lending space to ask homeowners with a trust to transfer title out of the trust to close on their new loan, then require them to transfer title back into the trust after their loan is consummated, causing hassle and additional costs for the homeowner. Reverse mortgage loans do not permit the transfer of property title after the loan is made without first obtaining approval from the loan servicer. In order to keep the property in the trust, the full trust itself must be reviewed (excluding the advanced health care directives, Powers of Attorney (unless being used for an incapacitated borrower), Last Will and Testament, as they are not necessary) to determine that the trust meets the FHA program guidelines. In our experience, the overwhelming majority of standard revocable family trusts meet the requirements, but until the full trust is reviewed, we, as a lender, cannot advise whether your trust is eligible.
Q.

What protections does North Carolina law provide for reverse mortgage borrowers during hurricanes and natural disasters?

As of March 2026, the state of North Carolina does not have any specific laws or statutes on the books that would suspend a foreclosure during a natural disaster. They rely on federal and HUD guidelines as it pertains to these matters. If your home is damaged by a hurricane or other type of natural disaster, the first thing you want to do is file a claim with your insurance company as soon as humanly possible to get that started. Next you will need to notify your lender or servicer of the damage by certified mail and keep a copy of the letter. You will also want to take pictures or videos of the damage to help with your claim before any repairs are completed. You can also contact FEMA to apply for financial assistance if it is in a Presidentially-Declared Major Disaster Area (PDMDA) to see if you qualify for assistance. While your home is being repaired it is important that you continue to pay your property charges (Taxes, Insurance & HOA if any). If the home is uninhabitable you will need to send written notice to your lender or servicer that you plan to return when your home is repaired and again send this communication via certified mail. Additionally, you will want to stay in contact with your servicer and keep them updated on the progress and make sure they have your temporary forwarding address during the time of repair. Due to the natural disaster situation your servicer will work with you as long as every effort is being made to get the home repaired and you moved back in as soon as humanly possible. There are guidelines in place with HUD to extend foreclosure timelines if the property was in a PDMDA.
Q.

What consumer protections does North Carolina provide for reverse mortgage borrowers?

North Carolina has several consumer protections in place for reverse mortgage borrowers. They require all originations of reverse mortgages to be limited to state licensed Lenders by the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks (NCCOB), which means mortgage brokers are prohibited from originating reverse mortgage loans. Additionally, the state has adopted multiple federal statutes, including the mandatory HUD counseling, prohibiting tied financial products such as insurance or annuities, and requiring the clear disclosure of the homeowner(s) responsibility for maintaining their taxes, insurance, and overall maintenance of the home. Additionally the state has one of the longest cooling-off periods in existence, 20 business days.
Q.

Are there any prepayment penalties on reverse mortgages in North Carolina?

No. There is never any prepayment penalty permitted on a reverse mortgage loan, as prohibited by Federal law. North Carolina state law reinforces that prohibition under the North Carolina Reverse Mortgage Act. You can pay off in full or partially at any time, with no prepayment penalty.

Ready to Unlock Your Home’s Equity?

As North Carolina’s #1 Rated Reverse Mortgage Lender, All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. (ARLO™) is here to provide trusted guidance, real-time rates, and expert support to help you make informed decisions.

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All Reverse Mortgage, Inc. is fully licensed by the North Carolina Commissioner of Banks (License #L-173216), ensuring that you receive expert guidance every step of the way.

Get Your Reverse Mortgage Quote from North Carolina’s #1 Rated Reverse Mortgage Lender* or call (800) 565-1722 to speak with a licensed expert.

Other Areas of Interest in North Carolina

Calabash Charlotte Denver Mooresville Raleigh Southport Waxhaw

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