9 Best VA Mortgage Lenders of December 2021

Why we like it

Pros

• Offers 24/7 customer service over the phone.

• Has online application and prequalification.

• 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 low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest data.

• Extends full online capabilities, from application to loan tracking.

• Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.

Cons

• Equity lines and construction loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.

• Doesn’t offer renovation loans.

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

• Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.

• Considers nontraditional income sources, in some cases.

• Offers competitive rates and origination fees.

Cons

• Does not offer home improvement mortgages.

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

Why we like it

Pros

• Uses manual underwriting to evaluate creditworthiness, in some cases.

• Offers full online mortgage application, rate quotes, document upload and loan tracking.

Cons

• Mortgage rates offered to borrowers are higher than the government-reported median of all lenders.

Why we like it

Pros

• Wide variety of loan types and products.

• Improved online capabilities, and robust iOS and Android apps.

• Considers alternative credit data, like cell phone payments.

Cons

• Limited number of physical mortgage offices.

• Limited rate information is available without starting an application or speaking with a loan officer.

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

• Specializes in VA loans and working with military borrowers.

• Offers several low-down-payment government loan options.

Cons

• You can't shop rates online.

• Doesn't offer conventional home loans or renovation mortgages.

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.