Retire the payment.
Keep your home.
A HECM reverse mortgage can end your required monthly mortgage payment and turn home equity into cash, income, or a growing credit line.
The retirement tool most homeowners get wrong
In 24 years of originating mortgages, I've watched the reverse mortgage earn a reputation it only half deserves. It isn't right for everyone, and I'll say so when it isn't.
But for the right homeowner 62 or older, a HECM turns the mortgage upside down. Instead of you paying the lender every month, the lender pays you, and you keep the title to your home.
I shop multiple HECM lenders on rate, margin, and fees, because small differences can change your proceeds by thousands.
Required mortgage payment
Your existing mortgage is paid off at closing. You still pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and upkeep.
Proceeds, structured your way
Loan proceeds are generally not taxable income. Confirm with your tax advisor.
Unused line of credit
If you choose the credit-line option, the unused portion can grow over time while you meet the loan terms.
FHA-insured protection
You and your heirs never owe more than the home is worth when the loan is repaid. FHA insurance covers any shortfall.
Choose how you receive it
There's no single right structure. The best fit depends on your goals, and we'll compare them side by side.
Lump sum
Take your full eligible amount at closing. Common for paying off an existing mortgage or covering a major expense.
Monthly income
A fixed monthly draw, for a set term or for as long as you live in the home. A steady supplement to retirement income.
Line of credit
Draw from your equity as needed. The unused balance can grow over time, giving you more room as needs change.
Combination
Many borrowers blend a partial lump sum with monthly income or a credit line to cover more than one goal.
Do you qualify?
HUD sets the requirements for a HECM. Here's what typically applies.
- ✓Age 62 or older. At least one borrower on title must meet the age requirement.
- ✓Primary residence. The home is where you live, not a vacation or investment property.
- ✓Meaningful equity. You don't need to own the home outright, but significant equity is required.
- ✓Financial assessment. Lenders review your ability to keep up property taxes, insurance, and upkeep.
- ✓HUD-approved counseling. An independent session, required before any HECM can proceed.
Eligible homes: single-family houses, FHA-approved condos, qualifying manufactured homes, and 2-4 unit properties when you live in one unit.
The built-in safeguard
HUD requires independent counseling before any HECM proceeds. It takes about an hour, often by phone, and it exists to protect you. I'll help you schedule it and walk you through what to expect.
Talk to Ken Starks, not a call center
You work directly with me from the first call to funding. I'm an independent broker, so I shop your HECM across multiple lenders instead of quoting one company's offer. If a reverse mortgage is the wrong fit for your situation, I'll tell you that too, and the analysis costs nothing either way.
Straight answers to the big questions
These are the questions I hear most often, and they deserve honest answers.
Do I still own my home with a reverse mortgage?+
What happens to my home when I pass away?+
Can I be forced out of my home?+
How do I receive the money?+
Is HUD counseling required before I can proceed?+
Get your free reverse mortgage analysis
Real numbers for your home and age, not a generic quote. No cost, no obligation, and a straight answer either way.
- ✓HECM payout comparison: lump sum vs. monthly income vs. credit line
- ✓Heir and equity projection over time
- ✓Multi-lender rate and margin shop
- ✓HUD counseling walkthrough
Prefer to talk it through first? Call (480) 400-5626
Request your analysis
Takes about 30 seconds. Ken will call you within one business day.
Ken will call you within one business day. Want to move faster?
Call (480) 400-5626The Starks Team · Ken Starks, Independent Mortgage Broker · NMLS #173595 · Equal Housing Lender · NMLS Consumer Access
This material is not from HUD or FHA and has not been approved by HUD or any government agency. A reverse mortgage is a loan that must be repaid, generally when the home is sold or when the last borrower no longer lives in the home as a primary residence. Borrowers remain responsible for property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA dues, and home maintenance; failure to meet these obligations can result in loan default and foreclosure. Loan proceeds are generally not considered taxable income; consult your tax advisor. HUD-approved counseling is required before obtaining a HECM.
This is not a commitment to lend. Rates and terms are subject to change and depend on individual qualification. The 2026 HECM lending limit of $1,249,125 is a program maximum used in calculations, not an amount you receive; your proceeds depend on age, interest rate, and home value. Equal Housing Lender.