9 Best FHA 203(k) Mortgage Lenders of 2019

Why we like it

Ideal for borrowers who need to be evaluated on the basis of nontraditional credit. New American Funding offers FHA and VA loans, works with down payment assistance programs, and helps borrowers whose credit histories don't fit the mold of traditional banking.

Pros

• Uses manual underwriting to evaluate creditworthiness.

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

• Home equity lending sets it apart from most non-bank lenders.

Cons

• Services not available in all 50 states.

Why we like it

Ideal for first-time home buyers and those seeking specialty mortgages such as construction or condo loans.

Pros

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

• Online application and progress tracking available.

• Condo lending specialists on staff.

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

Cons

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

• Physical locations not available in all states.

Why we like it

Ideal for borrowers who want lots of options and a quick turn time. Fairway Independent Mortgage offers a full selection of home loans along with a comprehensive mobile app for a fast and easy application process.

Pros

• A robust suite of loan products.

• Licensed in all 50 states.

• Close in as little as 10 days using the Fairway app.

Cons

• Limited branch locations.

• Mortgage rates not posted on website.

Why we like it

Ideal for first-time home buyers, veterans and those who may have credit challenges to overcome.

Pros

• Participates in some state down payment assistance programs.

• Offers educational resources for military borrowers.

• Provides digital tools for a streamlined application process.

Cons

• No mortgage rates displayed online.

• Must work with a loan officer for pre-qualification and preapproval.

Why we like it

Ideal for borrowers who prefer an online experience. Homebridge offers a variety of home loan options and an online application.

Pros

• A wide variety of loan types.

• Low credit score requirements for government-backed loans.

• A wealth of educational material on its website.

• Licensed in all 50 states.

Cons

• Mortgage application can't be tracked online.

• Charges origination fees on some loans.

• Limited branch locations.

Why we like it

Ideal for anyone who wants online convenience with face-to-face options. Loan Depot has affiliated locations nationwide and is well-rated for low customer complaint volume.

Pros

• Offers conventional and government-backed refinance mortgages.

• Offers a “lifetime guarantee” on future refinances: no lender fees and reimbursal of appraisal cost.

• Advertises a "no steering" policy for refinance loans.

Cons

• Must provide personal information to get a customized refinance rate quote.

• Has fewer high-tech refinance tools than other lenders, such as no mobile app.

Why we like it

Ideal for borrowers with past credit issues and those looking for down payment and closing cost assistance programs.

Pros

• Low rate of consumer complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

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

• Offers a proprietary closing-cost assistance program.

Cons

• No online mortgage rates.

• Charges an origination fee.

• Doesn't offer home equity products.

Why we like it

Ideal for military members and others who want low-down-payment loan options.

Pros

• Loan officers are well-versed in VA loan process.

• Low minimum credit score for government loans.

• Down payments as low as 3% on conventional loans.

• Considers alternative credit data, like cell phone payments.

Cons

• No online preapproval.

• Typically charges a $1,095 lender fee.

• Limited number of physical mortgage offices.

Why we like it

Ideal for those who appreciate the full-service experience of a leading regional bank. Flagstar offers a full menu of fixed and adjustable home loans and mortgage refinancing, as well as jumbo loans and home equity financing.

Pros

• Embraces FHA-backed home loans.

• Offers several types of construction and renovation mortgages.

• A professional loan package is tailored for the needs of doctors, lawyers, nurse practitioners, airline pilots and certified public accountants.

• Flagstar reps are familiar with low-down-payment state bond programs for first-time home buyers and income-limited households, as well as the areas that qualify for USDA loans.

• Offers home equity loans and home equity lines of credit.

Cons

• Charges an average $1,295 in underwriting and processing fees.