Reverse Mortgage 101
Last update:
04/21/2026
Completed
2. Who Qualifies?
1021 Views •5. Costs & Fees
858 Views •7. Property, Taxes & Insurance
826 Views •3. HUD-Approved Counseling
823 Views •9. Red Flags
800 Views •6. Protecting Your Heirs
759 Views •8. Common Myths Busted
753 Views •1. What Is a Reverse Mortgage?
739 Views •10. Next Steps
737 Views •4. Payout Options
690 Views •2. Who Qualifies?
Who Qualifies for a Reverse Mortgage?
To get a HECM, you must meet these FHA requirements:
Age Requirement
- At least ONE borrower must be 62 years or older
Primary Residence
- The home must be your primary residence — where you live most of the year
Equity Threshold
- Sufficient equity to qualify (typically 50%+ recommended after closing costs)
Occupancy
- You must occupy the property within 12 months of closing
Credit & Income
- Must meet financial assessment (not just credit score)
- Can have prior bankruptcy — depends on circumstances
Compliance Notice: Borrowers must be 62 years of age or older. HUD-approved counseling is required. A reverse mortgage is not a government benefit. The loan becomes due and payable when the last surviving borrower no longer occupies the home as their primary residence or fails to meet the obligations of the mortgage.