


Kate Wood
Abby Badach Doyle
Jeanette Margle
This service is free and will not affect your credit score.
Best for fast closing
Our take on Rate
Rate boasts a streamlined application process, with full underwriting in as little as one business day — though for all its online conveniences, you'll still work with a human.
Best for borrowers in the mid-Atlantic
Our take on Andrews Federal Credit Union
Andrews Federal Credit Union is on the smaller side, but offers big value through low rates and fast closings. Its online rate quote tool is exceptionally informative. Renovation loans aren’t available.
Best for first-time home buyers
Our take on PNC Bank
PNC Bank offers a wide selection of loans and refinance options, with a streamlined digital experience and comprehensive rates tool.
Best for Bank of America customers
Our take on Bank of America
Bank of America offers standard big-bank benefits: loan variety, nationwide branches and a mobile app. It’s a solid pick for existing banking customers, and some borrowers can qualify for down payment assistance.
Best for FHA loans
Our take on Pennymac
Pennymac, known for government loans, has low average FHA fees and rates compared to other lenders, and may accept borrowers with lower credit scores.
Best for military borrowers
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 borrowers in GA, NC, SC, TN or VA
Our take on State Employees' Credit Union
State Employees’ Credit Union in North Carolina is worth checking out for those in the Southeast who meet its narrow membership criteria — especially first-time home buyers eligible for generous grants and specialty loans. But it doesn’t offer government-backed mortgages.
Best for mobile users
Our take on Rocket Mortgage, LLC
Rocket Mortgage is the Goliath of home loans in the U.S. It's the largest mortgage lender by volume, and keeps expanding its reach. Fortunately for borrowers, Rocket is a gentle giant, offering affordable borrowing options including a 1% down payment loan.
Best for HELOCs
Our take on Truist
If you prefer people to tech, Truist might be a good fit for you. Preapproval and customer care happen mostly offline, and for details on less-common loan types or custom rates you'll need to talk to a person.
40+
Lenders reviewed
4
Categories assessed
160+
Data points analyzed
