10 Best Washington, D.C., Mortgage Lenders of 2020

Why we like it

Pros

• Quicken Loans couples a fully online application with available mortgage advisors for those who want a human touch.

• Instantly verifies employment and income for many working Americans.

• Offers custom fixed-rate loan terms that are between eight and 30 years.

• Provides a wide variety of loan types, including renovation loans and all government-backed mortgage products.

Cons

• Quicken Loans doesn't offer home equity loans or HELOCs.

• Quicken's lender fees can be stout and they don't offset those fees with particularly low mortgage rates.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers multiple low-down-payment loan programs.

• May consider alternative credit data, like bank statements and rent payments.

Cons

• To get sample rates, you'll have to speak with a loan officer.

• Doesn't offer home equity loans or HELOC.

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 homebuyer programs.

Cons

• No mortgage rates displayed online.

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

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products designed for military members.

• Has an online application for preapproval.

• Offers low rates compared with most lenders.

Cons

• Website does not provide customized mortgage rates based on credit score or other factors before you apply.

• Credit union membership is limited to veterans and current military members, their families, and certain federal employees, retirees and contractors.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a wide variety of loan options, including special programs for doctors, entrepreneurs and other professionals.

• Offers a complete suite of online mortgage application tools and loan tracking.

• Sample rates and fees are easy to find on the website.

Cons

• Customized rates aren't available online without starting an application.

• Branches are limited mostly to the Southeast.

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.

• Offers document and asset retrieval capabilities.

Cons

• If you’re a “look me in the eye” type of customer, you’re out of luck.

• Getting a customized interest rate requires a credit check, which can lower your credit score by a few points.

Why we like it

Pros

• Provides numerous online conveniences, including loan application and process updates.

• Current rates clearly posted for various loan products.

• Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.

Cons

• New applications for home equity lines of credit suspended during COVID-19 crisis.

• Government actions and scandals have damaged consumer trust in recent years.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a wide variety of loan options, including low-down-payment mortgages and jumbo mortgages.

• Provides customizable mortgage rates on its website.

• Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders.

Cons

• Charges a mortgage application fee.

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

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers refinance mortgages with fixed and adjustable rates.

• Allows borrowers to apply entirely online.

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

Cons

• Does not offer renovation loans.

Why we like it

Pros

• Posts current mortgage rates on its website.

• Has an online application for mortgage preapproval and a digital tool to track application progress.

• Offers several affordable loan options including FHA, VA, USDA and the PNC Community Loan.

Cons

• Can't complete a full mortgage application online.

• Doesn't offer renovation mortgages.

• In-person service is not available in every state.