10 Best California Mortgage Lenders of 2022

Why we like it

Pros

• Uses manual underwriting to evaluate creditworthiness, in some cases.

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

Cons

• Mortgage origination fees tend to be on the high end, according to the latest federal data.

Why we like it

Pros

• Caters to self-service users who want to apply for a home loan online and talk to a human only as necessary.

• Estimates the loan amount you’ll qualify for within minutes.

• Streamlines the online process with document and asset retrieval capabilities, including the ability to edit your preapproval letter.

Cons

• Getting a customized interest rate requires a credit check, which can affect your credit score.

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

• Lender fees are on the high side and the fees aren't offset by particularly low mortgage rates, according to the latest data.

Why we like it

Pros

• Provides an entirely digital mortgage application.

• Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side, according to the latest available data.

• SoFi members may qualify for a $500 discount on mortgage fees.

Cons

• Does not offer government-backed loans, such as FHA or VA.

• Requires users to create an account to see customized mortgage rates.

• SoFi conforming mortgages are unavailable in Hawaii.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers 24/7 customer service over the phone.

• Has online application and pre-qualification.

• Offers a free credit counseling service.

• Employs advisors from each branch of the armed forces.

Cons

• Doesn’t offer home equity loans or HELOCs.

• Veterans United has physical branch offices in only 17 states.

• Information on FHA, USDA and conventional loans is harder to find on its website.

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

• Allows electronic submission and tracking of loan documents.

• Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products.

• Generally offers competitive rates, according to the latest data.

Cons

• Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.

• You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.

• Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.

Why we like it

Pros

• An online process with human help as needed.

• Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.

• Offers an "underwriter reviewed" preapproval letter in as little as 24 hours.

• Appraisal guarantee promises the loan won’t change even if appraisal is lower than expected.

Cons

• Doesn't offer home equity loans or HELOCs.

• Doesn't do VA or USDA loans.

• Appraisal guarantee is limited to borrowers who use Better real estate agents.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers down payment and closing cost assistance programs.

• May give existing customers a discount on mortgage lender origination fees.

• Offers home equity line of credit, or HELOC.

Cons

• Doesn't offer renovation loans that roll costs into a mortgage.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers digital income, asset and employment verification.

• Offers multiple renovation loan options.

• Has affiliated loan stores 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 wide variety of loan options, including low-down-payment mortgages and jumbo mortgages.

• Offers low rates and typical fees compared to other lenders, according to the latest data.

Cons

• Requires help from a loan officer to complete an online mortgage application.

• Customized mortgage rates not available without making contact.