Taylor Getler
Holden Lewis
Jeanette Margle
This service is free and will not affect your credit score.
Best for VA 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 low rates and fees
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 low rates and fees
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 VA expertise
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 low rates and fees
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 rate shopping
Our take on Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo has significantly shrunk its mortgage business in the past two years, but it was still a big VA loan originator last year. Some VA loan types may not be available.
Best for low rates
Our take on Flagstar
Flagstar Bank has been a big VA loan lender, by loan volume, with low average VA loan rates. But after corporate restructuring its home lending operations may focus on the needs of banking clients.
Best for VA specialization
Our take on PenFed
PenFed offers VA refinancing and offers low interest rates for VA loans.
Best for VA 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 specialization
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 rate shopping
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 rate shopping
Our take on U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank stands out for having one of the highest customer experience scores among surveyed VA lenders.
Best for rate shopping
Our take on Truist
Truist offers low interest rates compared to other VA lenders.
Best for low rates
Our take on Carrington
Carrington Mortgage is a big VA loan lender with a solid selection of VA loan types. Average VA rates are low, though fees are on the higher side.
Best for low rates and fees
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.
40
Lenders reviewed
10
Categories assessed
40+
Data points analyzed
5.0
Overall score
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% |
 | 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 |
