Less common programs
Beyond the standard HECM — other options worth knowing.
The HECM covers most situations, but a few specialized programs exist for specific circumstances. Here's what's available and who each one is designed for.
Why this page exists
The HECM is the right fit for most people.
But not everyone.
While the FHA-insured HECM is by far the most widely used reverse mortgage in the country, there are situations — very low income homeowners who need repair help, seniors with extremely high-value homes, or homeowners struggling specifically with property taxes — where a different program may be the better answer. We explore all available options for every client.
The programs
Three less common options explained
Deferred payment loans are one-time, lump-sum reverse mortgages offered by some local and state governments — not private lenders. They are designed for homeowners who need help funding specific home repairs but have limited income.
Similar to deferred payment loans, property tax deferral loans are government-offered programs that allow eligible homeowners to defer their annual property tax payments rather than pay them out of pocket each year.
Proprietary reverse mortgages are privately issued programs — not backed by FHA or the federal government. They are distributed through private companies and lenders and are designed primarily for homeowners with high-value homes who may be able to access more equity than the FHA lending limit allows.
Quick reference
Which program fits your situation?
Consider a Deferred Payment Loan if…
You have limited income, you own your home, and you specifically need to fund critical home repairs — not general living expenses or cash flow.
Consider a Tax Deferral Loan if…
Your primary financial burden is annual property tax bills, and you want a narrow, government-backed option specifically for that expense.
Consider a Proprietary Reverse Mortgage if…
Your home is valued significantly above the FHA lending limit and you want to access the maximum equity possible beyond what a standard HECM allows.
"At Reverse Freedom, we don't start with a product — we start with your situation. Whether that leads us to a standard HECM, a proprietary program, or something else entirely, our job is to make sure the program you choose actually fits your needs. We'll explore every available option together."
Chad Peck Owner & Founder, Reverse Freedom Mortgage · NMLS #1382816
Not sure which fits?
Let's find the right program for your situation.
A Utah loan officer will review your home value, income, and goals — and give you an honest recommendation, even if that means pointing you somewhere else.
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NMLS #1382816 | Utah DRE #9441193
This material is not from HUD or FHA and has not been approved by HUD or a government agency.
A reverse mortgage is a loan that must be repaid. Borrowers must continue to pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the property as a primary residence. Failure to do so may result in foreclosure.
Proprietary reverse mortgages are not insured by the federal government. Terms, eligibility, and protections differ from FHA-insured HECM products. Consult a licensed loan officer for details.
Reverse Freedom Mortgage is licensed in the State of Utah. 9089 S 1300 W STE #110, West Jordan, UT 84088.
Utah's reverse mortgage specialists since 2008. Helping Utah retirees live the retirement they imagined.
HUD/FHA Notice: This material is not from HUD or FHA and has not been approved by HUD or a government agency.
Loan Repayment: A reverse mortgage is a loan that must be repaid. Borrowers must continue to pay property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the property as a primary residence. Failure to do so may result in foreclosure.
Reverse Freedom Mortgage is licensed in the State of Utah. NMLS #1382816, Utah DRE License #9441193.
© Reverse Freedom Mortgage. All rights reserved.