10 Best Rhode Island 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 24/7 customer service over the phone.

• Has online application and pre-qualification.

• Offers a free credit counseling service.

• Employs advisors from each branch of the armed forces.

Cons

• Doesn’t offer home equity loans or HELOCs.

• Veterans United has physical branch offices in only 17 states.

• Information on FHA, USDA and conventional loans is harder to find on its website.

Why we like it

Pros

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

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

Cons

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

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

• 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.

• Origination fees are on the high side and are not offset by low rates, according to the latest data.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers digital income, asset and employment verification.

• Offers multiple renovation loan options.

• Has affiliated loan stores for customers who prefer face-to-face service.

Cons

• Mortgage rates aren't available online; you'll need to contact a loan officer.

• Does not offer home equity loans or lines of credit.

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

• Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.

• Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.

• Offers a proprietary closing-cost assistance program.

Cons

• No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.

• Doesn't offer home equity products.

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

• 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

• Home equity loans and lines of credit suspended due to COVID-19 are still unavailable.

• Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.

• No home improvement loans offered.