10 Best South Carolina 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 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 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 a wide variety of loan options, including special programs for doctors.

• 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.

• Origination fees tend to be on the higher end, according to the latest data.

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

• 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.

• Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.

Cons

• Home equity lending is geographically limited.

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers a variety of home loans, including construction-to-permanent loans, physicians loans and jumbo loans.

• Has a robust online mortgage application.

Cons

• Branches limited to mostly the Southeast region.

• Custom rates are only available if you speak with a representative.

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.

• The only way to see mortgage rates is through a customizing form.