Lifestyle & Mindset

Real Estate in Retirement: Stay in Your Home with Financial Help

Not all retirees want to sell or move. Here are programs that help seniors over 65 afford staying in their homes through property tax relief, repair assistance, and loan forgiveness.

Professional infographic illustration of an elderly couple sitting contentedly on the front porch of their home, symbolizing

Not all clients are selling, renting, or buying. Some folks just want to stay in their home after they retire but can't necessarily afford it.

A full-service real estate professional strives to provide as many helpful options to homeowners as possible.

Did you know that if you are over the age of 65 and living on a fixed income, there are programs to help with finances and repairs? These programs range from property tax reduction or elimination, resources to grant assistance for repairs, and even loan forgiveness!

Here are a couple of resources in Arizona and Nevada:

Property Tax Reduction or Elimination
Maricopa County Assessor - Property Tax Relief Programs

Repair Assistance
HUD Nevada Home Repair Resources
Scottsdale Housing Rehabilitation Program

Loan Forgiveness
Refer to your lender for assistance

These programs are a lifeline to help avoid a sale or move. Resources will vary in each state. If you'd like help exploring what's available in your area, we're here to guide you through the options.

The information provided here is for informational purposes only and not intended and should not be considered as legal advice.

By Kyle Jacobs

Kyle Jacobs is an advisor at American Retirement Advisors, providing specialized retirement planning guidance.

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Easy Eddie's Take

Kyle's right about these programs being lifelines, and most people are surprised when they learn just how much help is actually available. Let's take a look at this together. In Arizona specifically, the Senior Property Tax Exemption can reduce your property tax bill significantly if you're 65 or older and meet income requirements. The current income limit for 2026 is around $30,000 for single filers. For home repairs, the USDA Rural Development Section 504 Home Repair program offers grants up to $10,000 for seniors who qualify, and these don't have to be repaid.

A lot of people ask me, "What if I have a reverse mortgage and need repairs?" Here's the good news: many of these grant programs work alongside reverse mortgages since you still own the home. The Federal Housing Administration also has the Property Improvement Loan program through approved lenders, which can cover everything from roof repairs to accessibility modifications like ramps or grab bars.

Think of it this way: staying in your home isn't just about the house payment. When you factor in property taxes, maintenance, and unexpected repairs, these assistance programs can save you thousands each year. A little research into what's available in your county today can make a big difference in your monthly budget tomorrow.

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Affordable Homeownership Options in Retirement

Let us help you explore programs and strategies tailored to your needs, so you can enjoy the freedom of staying in your home

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Your Next Step

Affordable Homeownership Options in Retirement

Let us help you explore programs and strategies tailored to your needs, so you can enjoy the freedom of staying in your home