Is a reverse mortgage safe and can the bank take my home in Washington?

A HUD-insured HECM reverse mortgage in Washington includes significant consumer protections. You keep the title — the bank doesn't own your home. As long as you stay current on property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and basic maintenance, and use the home as your primary residence, you cannot be forced to leave. The HECM is non-recourse — meaning you (or your heirs) will never owe more than the home is worth when the loan comes due, regardless of how the loan balance has grown. Your estate is protected from any shortfall.