10 Best South Carolina Mortgage Lenders of 2020

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 digital income, asset and employment verification.

• Offers multiple renovation loan options.

• Has over 200 affiliated loan stores nationwide 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 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

• Offers multiple online conveniences, including a full mortgage application, e-signatures and digital loan process tracking.

• Offers a wide variety of loan products, including home improvement and manufactured home loans.

Cons

• Does not offer home equity loan products.

• Average interest rates and fees are higher than other lenders.

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.

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

• VA loans are the bulk of USAA’s business, so it knows the ins and outs of eligibility.

• Lots of experience assisting first-time home buyers.

• You can submit loan documents online.

Cons

• Doesn’t offer FHA or USDA loans, or second mortgages.

• Limited mortgage rate information is on the USAA website — none of it customized. You'll have to call.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.

• Has a full suite of online conveniences.

• Does well with rate transparency, and monthly payment estimates add mortgage insurance, when applicable.

Cons

• Doesn’t offer renovation loans at this time.

• Home equity lending is geographically limited.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a variety of low-down-payment mortgages as well as construction mortgages.

• Website lets users estimate rates online by loan and property type, amount and location.

• Has an online mortgage application.

Cons

• Branches limited mostly to the Southeast region.

• Does not offer FHA loans.

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

• Allows 3% down payment without borrower-paid mortgage insurance.

• Offers specialty loans like construction-to-permanent mortgages and medical professional mortgages.

• Among the best when it comes to online convenience, including loan process updates.

Cons

• Available only in states on the East Coast.

• You'll need to fill out a short form to see potential mortgage interest rates.