11 Best Online Mortgage Lenders of October 2021

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 loan won’t change even if appraisal is lower than expected.

Cons

• Doesn't do VA or USDA loans.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers low rates and fees when compared with other lenders.

• Extends full online capabilities, from application to loan tracking.

• Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.

Cons

• Equity lines and construction loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.

• Doesn’t offer renovation loans.

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

• Offers the ability to securely upload and digitally sign loan documents.

• Displays detailed sample rates for many of its refinance loan products.

Cons

• May charge an application fee.

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 it doesn't offset those fees with particularly low mortgage rates.

Why we like it

Pros

• Excels in online convenience, with document upload, loan tracking and e-signatures.

• Offers good rate transparency; rate shoppers can see customized interest rates.

Cons

• Limited variety of loan products: FHA, VA and USDA loans are unavailable.

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

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a robust suite of loan products, including a variety of renovation loans.

• Has a digital application that can be completed in 10 minutes.

• Works with some state housing finance agencies to offer mortgages with down payment and closing cost assistance.

Cons

• Mortgage rates aren't posted online.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a completely online application process.

• Posts current interest rates for purchase and refinancing.

• Provides customized rate quotes online.

Cons

• No FHA, VA or USDA refinance products.

• Available only in a dozen states.

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

• Allows borrowers to apply entirely online.

• Offers down payment and closing cost assistance programs.

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

Cons

• Does not offer renovation loans.

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.