Your home may be your biggest asset. For homeowners 62 and older, a reverse mortgage can turn part of that equity into cash without selling your home or making a monthly mortgage payment.

A Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is the FHA-insured reverse mortgage. It can help Orange County retirees supplement retirement income, cover rising costs, or build a financial cushion, for those who qualify.

What to know first:

  • The youngest borrower must be at least 62.
  • You keep title to your home and must live in it as your primary residence.
  • You must keep paying property taxes and homeowners insurance, and maintain the home.
  • The loan is repaid when the home is sold or is no longer your primary residence.
  • HUD-approved counseling is required before you apply.
  • HUD set the 2026 HECM maximum claim amount at $1,249,125, which matters in higher-value markets like Irvine.

A reverse mortgage isn’t right for everyone. Reem Misto is dual-licensed in mortgage lending (NMLS #240746) and California real estate (DRE #01083967), so she understands both the loan and the home. She’ll walk your family through the costs, trade-offs, and alternatives like a HELOC.

Explore reverse mortgage loans in Southern California with National Pacific Lending, an Irvine mortgage broker since 1999. Call (714) 293-1600. Subject to eligibility and program guidelines.

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