Market snapshot
The latest endorsement data for Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) brokers shows March momentum staying intact as the market adapts to evolving retirement planning, rates, and lender strategies. The data, compiled by Reverse Market Insight (RMI) and published by HECMWorld, measure endorsements rather than loan closings, offering a focused view of broker activity in the reverse mortgage space.
Industry observers note that hecm broker rankings hold as the core leaderboard remains unchanged from February’s trailing 12-month view. The stability comes even as market dynamics shift and lenders adjust outreach as part of broader retirement planning conversations.
March highlights
The undisputed No. 1 position continues to belong to Atlantic Avenue Mortgage, which tallied 938 endorsements in the 12-month window ending March. Close behind are loanDepot with 441 endorsements, Caliver Beach Mortgage at 386, C2 Financial Corp. with 180, and West Capital Lending at 161.
Atlantic Avenue leads again
Atlantic Avenue posted a notable March uptick, recording 88 endorsements—up from 64 in February. Its 12-month rolling average rose to 78 endorsements, reflecting a sustained push to expand beyond its initial market footprint. The Florida-based broker is licensed in 35 states and has grown its staff to more than 70 employees as it scales its reverse-mortgage operations.
Market momentum and what drives it
Industry researchers point to a broader shift in how homeowners view home equity as part of retirement planning. An industry analyst commented: “This pattern signals steady demand for home equity products and a broadening of the candidate pool.” The momentum suggests borrowers are increasingly considering the HECM option as a strategic retirement asset, rather than a last resort.
Top five and market structure
- Atlantic Avenue Mortgage — 938 endorsements (12-month total)
- loanDepot — 441
- Caliver Beach Mortgage — 386
- C2 Financial Corp. — 180
- West Capital Lending — 161
What this means for borrowers and lenders
For borrowers, these rankings provide visibility into which brokers command broad distribution networks and have the capacity to educate applicants about reverse mortgage options. Lenders use endorsement data to identify potential channel partners and to gauge where education and outreach are most active, helping shape marketing and referral strategies.
From a lending perspective, March’s data highlight the resilience of the broker channel as a driver of HECM volume. Even with rate volatility and regulatory headwinds, the leading names continue to build scale, expand geographic reach, and invest in staff and infrastructure to handle higher demand.
Q1 volume and regional dynamics
Atlantic Avenue reported more than $90 million in first-quarter volume, according to its leadership in industry interviews. The surge underscores a broader trend: newer, specialist reverse mortgage shops are finding a niche by blending local market knowledge with scalable operations. In March, Atlantic Avenue also expanded its footprint and staff to support ongoing demand across its 35-state license network.
Other players in the top five have balanced growth with diversified product offerings, reinforcing a competitive landscape where strong endorsement counts can translate into meaningful origination activity over the year.
Outlook
As the second half of 2026 unfolds, observers say the phrase hecm broker rankings hold remains a useful shorthand for a steady rhythm in endorsements despite ongoing rate fluctuations and regulatory scrutiny. If March’s momentum persists, we could see continued broker-led growth as firms broaden partnerships, pursue geographic expansion, and invest in borrower education campaigns. Analysts caution that any shift in interest rates or policy could re-order the leaderboard, but the current data suggest a stable base for the near term.
Market watchers will be keen to receive the next wave of endorsement data as lenders and brokers update strategies for the upcoming season. The trajectory points to a market where the top players not only maintain leadership but also cultivate networks that push deeper into retirement planning conversations, with the HECM space adjusting to borrower needs and financial realities.
Bottom line
March data reinforce that hecm broker rankings hold firm, with Atlantic Avenue continuing to lead and a familiar top tier showing resilience. As the market navigates rate moves and evolving consumer preferences, the broker channel remains a critical lever for reaching retirees considering home equity as a strategic asset.
Discussion