


Dawnielle Robinson-Walker
Johanna Arnone
This service is free and will not affect your credit score.
Best for low credit borrowers
Our take on Rate
Rate boasts a streamlined application process, with full underwriting in as little as one business day — though for all its online conveniences, you'll still work with a human.
Best for home equity borrowing
Our take on Better
Better stands out for its attractive interest rates and wide range of mortgage types, including for condos and manufactured homes. Better offers connections with homeowners insurance providers and real estate attorneys, as well as title insurance. However, the lender could improve its customer service.
Best for FHA loans
Our take on Pennymac
Pennymac, known for government loans, has some of the lowest average mortgage rates we’ve seen, though fees run a little high, and HELOCs and renovation loans aren’t available. Best for VA or FHA borrowers looking for low rates and an efficient digital experience.
Best for financial assistance
Our take on New American Funding
New American Funding offers a large menu of loan products, as well as programs like first-time home buyer assistance, but personalized mortgage rates aren't available on its website.
Best for VA loans
Our take on Veterans United
Veterans United originates more VA mortgages than any other lender. Though average fees are on the higher side, it’s a solid pick for veterans and military borrowers looking for a VA loan with ample support along the way.
Best for low down payment
Our take on Rocket Mortgage, LLC
Rocket Mortgage is the Goliath of home loans in the U.S. It's the largest mortgage lender by volume, and keeps expanding its reach. Fortunately for borrowers, Rocket is a gentle giant, offering affordable borrowing options including a 1% down payment loan.
Best for rate transparency
Our take on Tomo
Tomo, established in 2020, is an online-only lender with a focus on digital efficiency and purchase loans. We’re impressed with its customizable mortgage rate tool. Average rates are on the low side, too. However, you won’t find home equity products. Mortgages are available in 34 states and counting.
Best for low average interest rates
Our take on AmeriSave
AmeriSave stands out for its program to lower your rate by 1% for the first year. Interest rates are on the low side, but fees are higher than competitors’. Borrowers with low credit will find flexibility here.
Best for self-employed borrowers
Our take on Carrington
Carrington Mortgage offers specialty loans for people who might have trouble getting a mortgage elsewhere, like self-employed borrowers or those with heavy debt. Average rates are low, though fees are on the higher side.
Best for first-time home buyers
Our take on SoFi
SoFi offers perks for existing customers, including a discount on closing costs and accessible customer support. The site primarily highlights conventional home loan offerings, so borrowers looking for other loan types may need to reach out directly for more details.
40
Lenders reviewed
4
Categories assessed
120+
Data points analyzed
5.0
Overall score