Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Guide for Hawaii Homeowners 62+
Hawaii has approximately 72,000 homeowner households led by someone 62 or older. With a median home value of $840,000 — among the highest of any state — many Hawaii seniors have accumulated significant housing wealth, particularly on Oahu and Maui. A HECM can allow qualifying Hawaii homeowners to tap that equity without selling, providing income to manage the state's very high cost of living.
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
Hawaii's high home values mean many properties may exceed the 2026 FHA HECM limit of $1,249,125 — particularly on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. For homes above this ceiling, HECM proceeds are calculated using $1,249,125 as the property value cap, not the full appraisal. Proprietary (jumbo) reverse mortgages from private lenders may allow higher loan amounts for high-value Hawaii properties.
Source: HUD Mortgagee Letter 2025-21
Hawaii Reverse Mortgage Protections
Hawaii does not impose additional reverse mortgage counseling requirements beyond the federal HUD mandate. Hawaii's general consumer protection laws (Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 480) apply to mortgage lenders. The Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions regulates mortgage lenders operating in the state.
Source: Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 480; Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions
How Much Could You Get? — Hawaii
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 Hawaii
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 Hawaii →This link opens the HUD HECM Counselor search tool. Filter by state (HI) 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 Hawaii.
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Age 62 or older The youngest borrower on the title must be at least 62.
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Your primary home You live in this home as your main residence — not a vacation or rental property.
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Significant home equity You own the home free and clear, or have paid down most of the mortgage — generally 50% or more equity.
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Located in an eligible state FHA HECM is available in all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories — including Hawaii.
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No existing reverse mortgage Standard HECMs are for first-time reverse mortgage borrowers. Other options exist if you've had one before.
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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 — Hawaii homeowners.
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HECM Questions for Hawaii Homeowners
Are HECMs available in Hawaii?
Yes. HECMs are available throughout Hawaii, including Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, Kauai, and Molokai, on eligible primary residences that meet FHA property standards.
Does Hawaii require additional reverse mortgage counseling?
No. Hawaii relies on the federal HUD counseling requirement. Before any HECM application, borrowers must complete a HUD-approved counseling session. Phone counseling is available and practical for all islands.
My Hawaii home is worth over $1 million — how does the HECM limit affect me?
The 2026 FHA HECM limit of $1,249,125 caps the property value used in loan sizing. For a $1.6 million home, the HECM is calculated as if the property is worth $1,249,125. Proprietary reverse mortgages from private lenders are not subject to this FHA cap and may be worth exploring for high-value Hawaii properties.
How do Hawaii property taxes interact with a HECM?
HECM borrowers must keep property taxes current. Hawaii has one of the lowest effective property tax rates in the nation, and all counties offer a home exemption for owner-occupants. Honolulu County additionally offers an Enhanced Low-Income Tax Exemption for qualifying seniors. These benefits can reduce annual tax obligations for HECM borrowers.
Where can I find a HUD-approved HECM counselor in Hawaii?
Use the HUD HECM Counselor Search (link above) filtered to Hawaii. Phone counseling is available and recommended, as in-person HUD agencies are limited in the state. Counseling is required by federal law before any HECM application.
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 → Washington 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.
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