10 Best Washington, D.C., Mortgage Lenders of 2021

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

• 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 home buyer 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, according to the latest data.

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.

• 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.

• 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 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 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

• 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.