


Abby Badach Doyle
Jeanette Margle
Johanna Arnone
This service is free and will not affect your credit score.
NMLS#3030
Best for cash-out refinancing
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 the largest refinance lender as well — though refinancing APRs are not the most competitive.
Best for borrowers with credit challenges
Our take on Rate
Rate boasts a streamlined online application process, but no mobile app. Though it’s among the top refinance lenders by volume, APRs are less competitive than average.
Best for cash-out refinancing
Our take on Navy Federal
Navy Federal is known for VA lending, and it's a big refinance lender by volume. You'll need a military connection to join the credit union.
Best for those who bank with Wells Fargo
Our take on Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo has significantly shrunk its mortgage business in recent years, but it was still a major refi lender by loan volume in 2025, though APRs were less competitive than other lenders’.
Best for credit union experience
Our take on Andrews Federal Credit Union
Andrews Federal Credit Union is on the smaller side, but offers big value with a float-down option and fast closings. Its online rate quote tool is exceptionally informative.
Best for customer service
Our take on Chase
Chase mortgage has an above-average reputation for consumer satisfaction and is a major refinance lender by volume.
Best for low average rates and fees
Our take on NBKC
NBKC offers a strong variety of refinance loan types and is primarily an online lender — though its app does not have mortgage features and chat support is not geared toward mortgage borrowers.
Best for active military and veterans
Our take on Veterans United
Veterans United originates more VA mortgages than any other lender. Though refinance APRs are about average, it’s a solid pick for borrowers looking for a VA loan with ample support along the way.
Best for quick online quotes
Our take on Real Genius
Real Genius is a smart pick for a do-it-yourself online quote, with a wide variety of refinance loans on offer. We’re impressed with its detailed, “no fine print” approach and options to sort and customize APR and fees.
Best for military borrowers & families
Our take on USAA
Though it specializes in VA loans, USAA’s refinance products offer a respectable variety of loan types with average APRs. Credit union membership is limited to active military, veterans and their families.
Best for quick online rate quotes
Our take on PNC Bank
PNC Bank has a variety of appealing refinance options, including jumbo refinance loans. It's simple to browse rates and apply online.
Best for variety of refinance products
Our take on Network Capital
Network Capital offers alternative mortgage options with flexible requirements, as well as fast closings, but shoppers will need to contact the lender for loan details.
Best for quick online rate comparisons
Our take on Flagstar
Flagstar Bank, recently acquired by Mr. Cooper, stands out for a wide variety of refinance loan types and convenient digital tools that make it easy to shop rates online.
Best for refinancing overall
Our take on Truist
Truist is NerdWallet’s pick for Best Refinance Lender this year. With competitive APRs and a wide variety of loan types, refinance borrowers in most states are likely to find a strong offer here.
Best for competitive APRs
Our take on State Employees' Credit Union
Despite its small footprint, NC SECU offers big value — if you meet the criteria to become a credit union member.
Best for competitive APRs
Our take on Alliant
For eligible borrowers who are open to joining a credit union, Alliant offers a strong variety of refinance options, along with some of the most competitive APRs we’ve seen.
35+
Lenders reviewed
17
Categories assessed
11,000+
Data points analyzed

Nerdy Tip
What about "no closing cost" refinances?
