Reverse Mortgage (HECM) Guide for Maryland Homeowners 62+
Maryland has approximately 340,000 homeowner households led by someone 62 or older. With a median home value of $395,000 — elevated by proximity to Washington D.C. and Baltimore — Maryland seniors often hold substantial home equity. For retirees in a high-cost Mid-Atlantic state, a HECM can supplement retirement income or cover healthcare costs without monthly mortgage obligations.
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
Maryland's home values largely fall below the 2026 FHA HECM limit of $1,249,125, so most Maryland homeowners can access HECM proceeds based on their full appraised value. Luxury properties in Montgomery County, Bethesda, and other D.C. suburbs may approach the cap.
Source: HUD Mortgagee Letter 2025-21
Maryland Reverse Mortgage Protections
Maryland does not require separate state reverse mortgage counseling beyond federal HUD requirements. The Maryland Commissioner of Financial Regulation oversees mortgage lenders. Maryland's Homeowner Protection Act (Md. Code, Real Prop. § 7-105 et seq.) provides general consumer protections against predatory lending practices, which apply to HECM transactions.
Source: Md. Code, Real Prop. § 7-105; Maryland Office of Financial Regulation
How Much Could You Get? — Maryland
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 Maryland
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 Maryland →This link opens the HUD HECM Counselor search tool. Filter by state (MD) 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 Maryland.
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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 Maryland.
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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 — Maryland homeowners.
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HECM Questions for Maryland Homeowners
Are HECMs available in Maryland?
Yes. HECMs are available throughout Maryland. FHA-approved lenders licensed in Maryland can originate HECMs on eligible primary residences statewide.
Does Maryland require additional reverse mortgage counseling?
No. Maryland relies on the federal HUD counseling requirement. Before any HECM application, you must complete a session with a HUD-approved independent counselor. Maryland and D.C.-area agencies are plentiful.
How do Maryland property taxes interact with a HECM?
HECM borrowers must keep property taxes current. Maryland offers a Homeowners' Property Tax Credit that caps property taxes as a percentage of income for qualifying homeowners — a program that can meaningfully reduce annual tax costs for retirees holding a HECM.
What if I have a HELOC on my Maryland home?
Existing HELOCs must be paid off and closed at HECM closing. The payoff typically comes from HECM proceeds. Maryland lenders will confirm no subordinate liens remain before disbursement.
Where can I find a HUD-approved HECM counselor in Maryland?
Use the HUD HECM Counselor Search (link above) filtered to Maryland. The Baltimore-Washington corridor has numerous HUD-approved counseling agencies. Phone counseling is available statewide.
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.
D.C. HECM Guide → Virginia 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 →