To help members connect and learn from one another, NRMLA regularly features professionals from across the reverse mortgage ecosystem in its Member Spotlight series.
This edition highlights Michael Gonzales, CRMP, branch manager at MTG Family Mortgage in Wichita, Kansas, and a member of the American Mortgage Bank family.
With more than 23 years in the mortgage industry—including 20 years specializing in reverse mortgages—Michael brings deep expertise and a strong commitment to education. He has been recognized as a recipient of the Mortgage Professionals of America Young Guns Award and National Mortgage Professionals’ 40 Under 40, and also serves as a certified instructor for continuing education courses.
How did you get into the reverse mortgage world?
I began my mortgage career in 2003 working for a broker, and in 2004, I opened my first branch with the guidance of an early mentor, Larry McAnarney. Larry, who had his own branch, originated both forward and reverse mortgages. His willingness to share his knowledge gave me early exposure to both sides of the business. Reverse mortgages were not something I initially set out to specialize in. Around 2006, I received a call from a client asking if I could help with one. I knew Larry had experience, so I reached out for guidance. That one conversation opened the door.
From that point forward, I was fortunate to learn both forward and reverse lending side by side. As more families realized I understood the reverse product, word began to spread. The business grew organically, and I made the decision to fully master the strategy behind the loan. Today, I am licensed in approximately 30 states and earned my CRMP designation in 2024. A significant portion of my practice focuses on HECM for Purchase. We have helped many clients buy homes that are safer, more accessible, and better suited for retirement, with a goal of preserving their investment portfolios and retirement savings.
What started as one phone call became a specialty. Once I fully understood how a reverse mortgage could preserve assets, improve cash flow, and create flexibility in retirement planning, I realized it wasn’t a loan of last resort. It was a strategic financial planning tool.
What reverse mortgage issues/topics are you most focused on now?
I’m focused on reframing the narrative. Too many people still view reverse mortgages through outdated information. Today’s HECM is highly regulated and built with consumer protections. I spend much of my time educating REALTORS, financial advisors, and CPAs about:
- Strategic line-of-credit planning
- Using a HECM for Purchase
- Coordinating a reverse mortgage with investment portfolios
- Helping clients secure the loan before they actually need it
What has been your biggest professional challenge/obstacle thus far?
How did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge has been misinformation. There are still misconceptions about reverse mortgages, even among professionals. So, I decided a while ago I would lean into education. I earned my CRMP designation and began teaching continuing education classes around 10 years ago. The more transparent and detailed you are, the more trust you build.
What do you like to do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies or pursuits?
Outside of work, I enjoy golf, pickleball, chess, staying active, and spending time with our two dogs, Teddy and Kruzer. They’ve actually become part of our social media content. I also enjoy studying investing and macroeconomic trends. Finance doesn’t really feel like work to me.
What’s one item you can’t live without?
My calendar. Organization is everything in this business. Between clients, continuing education classes, and family time, staying structured allows me to give each area the attention it deserves.
