Georgia Rose
Taylor Getler
Holden Lewis
Johanna Arnone
This service is free and will not affect your credit score.
Best for VA loan specialization
Our take on Veterans United
Veterans United originates more VA mortgages than any other lender. Though average VA rates and fees are middle of the road, it’s a solid pick for veterans and military borrowers looking for a VA loan with ample support along the way.
Best for Competitive APRs
Our take on NBKC
NBKC is a big VA lender by loan volume and stands out for its attractive VA interest rates and fees. However, its app does not have mortgage features and chat support is not geared toward mortgage borrowers.
Best for Faster than average closing time
Our take on First Federal Bank
First Federal Bank stands out for its relatively low VA interest rates and fees and its emphasis on government loans, including VA.
Best for Variety of VA loan types
Our take on Rate
Rate is a major VA loan lender by volume and boasts a streamlined application process — though for all its online conveniences, you'll still work with a human.
Best for Competitive APRs
Our take on Alliant
Alliant Credit Union offers low average VA rates and fees, but VA loans aren't a major share of total lending, and customer service is geared toward credit union members.
Best for VA loan specialization
Our take on USAA
USAA is among the top five VA loan lenders by volume. USAA membership is open only to current and former military and eligible family members.
Best for VA loans overall
Our take on Navy Federal
Navy Federal is known for VA lending, but its flexible VA-like loan options truly stand out. You'll need a military connection to join the credit union.
Best for VA loan specialization
Our take on Pennymac
Pennymac, a major VA loan lender, has low average VA rates, though fees run a little high. Best for VA borrowers looking for low rates and an efficient digital experience.
Best for Customer experience
Our take on SoFi
SoFi offers perks for existing customers, including a discount on closing costs and accessible customer support. The site primarily highlights conventional home loan offerings, so VA borrowers may need to reach out directly for more details.
Best for Competitive APRs
Our take on loanDepot
Good for: borrowers who want an easy online application and a variety of loan types to explore.
Best for VA loan accessibility
Our take on PenFed
PenFed scores high for offering low VA interest rates, but may not be the best fit for borrowers with fixer-uppers.
Best for Fast closing
Our take on Chase
Good for: borrowers who want a wide selection of loan products, an in-person experience and comparatively low interest rates.
Best for VA loan accessibility
Our take on Truist
Truist offers low VA interest rates and refinancing options, though it is not primarily a VA lender.
Best for Variety of VA loan types
Our take on PrimeLending
Good for: borrowers looking for closing cost assistance, as well as those seeking to renovate or to build a new home.
40
Lenders reviewed
10
Categories assessed
11,000+
Data points analyzed
 | How do I choose a VA lender? This is different for everyone and depends on your specific needs. My advice would be that while you might prioritize using a lender tailored to veterans, the right choice for you may not be the one with the most aggressive military marketing. Consider broadening your search and applying with a few different lenders — even if they’re not as familiar — to ensure you're getting the best possible offer. Taylor Getler, Lead Writer, Mortgages |
Down Payment | Funding Fee — Purchase or Construction Loan, First Use |
|---|---|
0% to 4.9% | 2.15% |
5% to 9.9% | 1.5% |
10% or more | 1.25% |
Down Payment | Funding Fee — Purchase or Construction Loan, Subsequent Use |
|---|---|
0% to 4.9% | 3.3% |
5% to 9.9% | 1.5% |
10% or more | 1.25% |
VA Refinance Loan | Funding Fee |
|---|---|
Cash-out refinance — first use | 2.15% |
Cash-out refinance — subsequent use | 3.3% |
VA IRRRL Loan | 0.5% |
