10 Best CalHFA Mortgage Lenders of 2021

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers the ability to securely upload and digitally sign loan documents.

• Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.

Cons

• Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.

Why we like it

Pros

• Uses manual underwriting to evaluate creditworthiness.

• Offers full online mortgage application, rate quotes, document upload and loan tracking.

Cons

• Mortgage rates offered to borrowers are higher than the government-reported median of all lenders.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers digital income, asset and employment verification.

• Offers multiple renovation loan options.

• Has over 200 affiliated loan stores nationwide for customers who prefer face-to-face service.

Cons

• Mortgage rates aren't available online; you'll need to contact a loan officer.

• Does not offer home equity loans or lines of credit.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a robust suite of loan products, including a variety of renovation loans.

• Has a digital application that can be completed in 10 minutes.

• Works with some state housing finance agencies to offer mortgages with down payment and closing cost assistance.

Cons

• Mortgage rates aren't posted online.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers multiple online conveniences, including a full mortgage application, e-signatures and digital loan process tracking.

• Offers a wide variety of loan products, including home improvement and manufactured home loans.

Cons

• Does not offer home equity loan products.

• Average interest rates and fees are higher than other lenders.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a full array of mortgage products, including government and renovation loans.

• Has loans for most purposes, including purchase, refinance and jumbo mortgages.

• Online portal keeps borrowers up-to-date on the loan application's progress.

Cons

• Doesn't post interest rates on its site.

• Doesn’t offer home equity loans or lines of credit.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers extensive educational resources for military borrowers.

• Provides digital tools for a streamlined application process.

• Participates in some state down payment assistance and first-time home buyer programs.

Cons

• No mortgage rates displayed online.

• Doesn’t offer home equity loans or lines of credit.

Why we like it

Pros

• Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.

• Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.

• Offers a proprietary closing-cost assistance program.

Cons

• No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.

• Doesn't offer home equity products.

Why we like it

Pros

• Online application and progress tracking are available.

• Offers specialty loans, such as construction, renovation and reverse mortgages.

• Participates in some first-time home buyer assistance programs.

Cons

• Mortgage rates are available only by contacting a loan officer.

• Physical locations aren't available in all states.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers an ITIN qualification path for undocumented borrowers.

• Has a digital application process.

• Offers several mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.

• Borrowers can qualify with income from self-employment and other nontraditional sources.

Cons

• No mortgage rates published online.

• No home equity loans or lines of credit.

• Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.

• Branch offices not available in all states.