Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Guide for Arizona Homeowners 62+
Arizona is home to approximately 540,000 homeowner households led by someone 62 or older. The state's median home value is $331,000 — driven higher by fast-growing metro areas like Phoenix and Scottsdale. For retirees who have built significant equity, a HECM can convert that equity into tax-free cash flow without monthly mortgage payments, helping cover healthcare costs, home maintenance, or day-to-day expenses.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2022 1-Year Estimates (Table B25077); U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2022 1-Year Estimates (Table B25007)
Check My Eligibility — Free & No Obligation2026 FHA HECM National Lending Limit
Arizona's median home values fall well below the 2026 FHA lending limit of $1,249,125, so most Arizona homeowners can access the full available equity on their primary residence through a HECM.
Source: HUD Mortgagee Letter 2025-21
Arizona Reverse Mortgage Protections
Arizona does not require additional reverse mortgage counseling beyond the federally mandated HUD HECM counseling session. However, Arizona homeowners benefit from the state's anti-deficiency protections (A.R.S. § 33-814), which in many cases prevent lenders from pursuing homeowners for amounts exceeding the property value — reinforcing the federal HECM non-recourse protection.
Source: Arizona Revised Statutes § 33-814; HUD ML 2014-07
How Much Could You Get? — Arizona
Adjust your age and home value to see a quick estimate. Full calculator →
Estimate based on HUD PLF tables at 6.5% assumed expected rate. Actual amounts depend on formal appraisal and lender terms.
See if you qualify →Source: HUD Principal Limit Factor tables · HUD HECM page
Find a HUD-Approved HECM Counselor in Arizona
Before you can apply for any HECM, federal law requires a one-on-one counseling session with an independent HUD-approved counselor. This is not optional — no FHA-approved lender may accept your application without a valid counseling certificate. The session covers how HECMs work, costs, alternatives, and your rights as a borrower. It typically takes 60–90 minutes and can be done by phone.
Find a HUD Counselor in Arizona →This link opens the HUD HECM Counselor search tool. Filter by state (AZ) to find agencies near you.
The 6 Basic HECM Eligibility Requirements
These are the same federal requirements that apply to every HECM in every state, including Arizona.
-
Age 62 or older The youngest borrower on the title must be at least 62.
-
Your primary home You live in this home as your main residence — not a vacation or rental property.
-
Significant home equity You own the home free and clear, or have paid down most of the mortgage — generally 50% or more equity.
-
Located in an eligible state FHA HECM is available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories — including Arizona.
-
No existing reverse mortgage Standard HECMs are for first-time reverse mortgage borrowers. Other options exist if you've had one before.
-
Plan to stay in your home A HECM is designed for homeowners who intend to remain in their home long-term.
See if a HECM may fit your situation — Arizona homeowners.
Takes about 2 minutes. No credit check. No sales call. No obligation of any kind.
HECM Questions for Arizona Homeowners
Are HECMs available in Arizona?
Yes. FHA HECM reverse mortgages are available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories, including Arizona. Any FHA-approved lender licensed in Arizona can originate a HECM.
Does Arizona require any additional reverse mortgage counseling?
No state-specific counseling requirement exists beyond the federal HUD mandate. All HECM applicants must complete a one-on-one session with a HUD-approved independent counselor before submitting a loan application — this applies in Arizona as everywhere else.
How do Arizona property taxes interact with a HECM?
HECM borrowers remain responsible for paying property taxes, homeowners insurance, and basic home maintenance. Failure to keep taxes current is one of the few ways a HECM can be called due. Arizona's Senior Property Valuation Protection program (Senior Freeze, A.R.S. § 42-13302) can lock in your home's assessed value — reducing annual tax increases — which makes it easier to stay current on property obligations while holding a HECM.
What if I have a HELOC on my Arizona home?
An existing HELOC must be paid off at or before closing a HECM. Because a HECM must be the sole lien on your primary residence, the HELOC balance is typically paid from HECM proceeds at closing. If the HELOC balance is large relative to available equity, a lender will determine whether enough proceeds remain after payoff to make the HECM worthwhile.
Where can I find a HUD-approved HECM counselor in Arizona?
Use the HUD HECM Counselor Search (link above) filtered to Arizona. Counseling can be done by phone — you do not need to visit in person. The session typically takes 60–90 minutes and is required by federal law before any HECM application can proceed.
Back to Main Guide
Return to the HomeBridge home page for our full HECM education hub.
HomeBridge Home →Eligibility Checklist
Review all six HECM eligibility requirements in detail.
View Eligibility Checklist →Other State Guides
Explore HECM guides for neighboring states.
California HECM Guide → Utah HECM Guide →HECM Education Hub
Deepen your understanding before talking to a lender. Our plain-language guides cover how HECMs work, who qualifies, and what protections you have.
Browse all education articles → Browse all HECM FAQs →