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Guides, updates & tools

HECM Knowledge Center

Everything on reverse mortgages in one place: the guides that explain how a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) works, dated updates as policy and programs change, writing that goes deeper, and a fast way for advisors to bring me a scenario.

Start with the guides

How a HECM works

The mechanics, plainly — balance growth, proceeds, what you keep paying.

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Is it right for me?

Including the situations where it isn’t, and the alternatives worth comparing.

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Costs & responsibilities

What you still pay, and what can put the home at risk.

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Counseling & process

The independent HUD-approved step that comes before any application.

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Latest HECM updates

  • Requirement2026-07-17

    HUD-approved counseling is still required before a HECM application

  • Reference2026-07-17

    The controlling HECM policy is FHA Handbook 4000.1, Update 17

See all updates →

From the blog

HECM Basics

What HUD-Approved HECM Counseling Actually Covers

Before anyone applies for a reverse mortgage, they sit down with an independent HUD-approved counselor. Here is what that session is for, what it protects, and why I think it is one of the best parts of the process.

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Are you a planner or CPA?

Bring me an illustrative HECM scenario — a short worksheet, nothing required, no client data needed.

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