MORTGAGE
WINNERS for 2021
First-time home buyer? Looking to refinance to get some more breathing room? Need an FHA or VA loan? If your goals involve home, our list of winners — some of which are our partners — can help you tackle your mortgage goals. While many of the winners are our partners, this didn't influence our decisions or opinions. Our opinions are our own.
Best-Of Awards > Mortgages
Best Mortgage Lender for Refinancing (TIE)
at Better
at Better
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Offers a program allowing qualifying buyers to make cash offers.
- Makes it easy to see customized mortgage rates.
- Average interest rates are on the low end compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer USDA loans.
- VA loans are not available in every state.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Why this LENDER made the list
Better.com makes it easy to compare customized rates for all loan products and offers a fully digital refinance process, all without charging origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Refinancing (TIE)
at Guaranteed Rate
at Guaranteed Rate
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Why this LENDER made the list
Guaranteed Rate delivers customized refinance rates in seconds and a fully digital application process via its website, while charging low origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Online Loans (TIE)
at Guaranteed Rate
at Guaranteed Rate
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Pros
- Displays detailed sample rates for many of its loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loans, including jumbo and interest-only products.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home equity loans.
Why this LENDER made the list
Guaranteed Rate offers multiple digital conveniences, including instant rate quotes and online preapproval, and its fees are highly competitive.
Read our methodologyBEST MORTGAGE LENDER FOR ONLINE LOANS (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Why this LENDER made the list
Wells Fargo offers a slew of loan options, has an online mortgage application process, publishes easy-to-shop rates and charges competitive fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for First-Time Home Buyers (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Why this LENDER made the list
Chase offers first-time buyers a variety of low-down-payment loans with competitive fees, and participates in community-specific housing assistance programs.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender First-Time Home Buyers (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Why this LENDER made the list
NASB offers multiple loans for first-time home buyers who might need flexible down payment or credit score requirements, and charges competitive fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Jumbo Loans (TIE)
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
20%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
20%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
20%
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Pros
- Carries a wide variety of mortgage types and products, including DreaMaker and Standard Agency mortgages, with down payments as low as 3%.
- Offers low rates compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Offers a customizable mortgage calculator for personalized rate and payment estimates.
Cons
- Doesn't offer home improvement loans, such as FHA 203(k) and HomeStyle.
- You have to speak with a home loan adviser to complete the application.
- Home equity lines of credit (HELOC) are currently unavailable.
Why this LENDER made the list
Chase originates a significant volume of jumbo loans, offers jumbo loans for various property types and charges low origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Jumbo Loans (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
N/A
Min. down payment
10%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Min. Credit Score
N/A
Min. down payment
10%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Min. Credit Score
N/A
Min. down payment
10%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of loan types and products, including FHA, VA and USDA.
- Borrowers can apply and track loan status online.
- Offers customized online rate quotes with monthly payment estimates, including mortgage insurance, when applicable.
Cons
- Home equity loans are geographically limited.
- Origination fees are on the high side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Why this LENDER made the list
Flagstar allows down payments under 20% on jumbos, offers conveniences like an online application and document uploads and has competitive origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender Overall
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Why this LENDER made the list
NASB offers a wide variety of loan types — including harder-to-find options — a fully digital loan application with preapproval and competitive rates and fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for VA Loans (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Pros
- Devotes much of its business to serving military families with VA loans.
- Offers a mortgage tailored to self-employed borrowers.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Doesn’t offer home improvement mortgages.
- Doesn't offer home equity loans or lines of credit.
Why this LENDER made the list
NASB originates a significant volume of VA loans, charges low fees and offers online conveniences like a digital application and document uploads.
Read our methodologyBEST MORTGAGE LENDER FOR VA LOANS (TIE)
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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.
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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.
National / regional
National
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of affordable mortgage products, including 0% down payment loans, designed for military members.
- Offers HELOCs and home equity loans.
- Offers low rates compared with most lenders, according to the latest federal 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 this LENDER made the list
Navy Federal originates a high volume of VA loans, offers veterans a variety of VA purchase and refi loans and charges low origination fees
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for FHA Loans (TIE)
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Pros
- Full online application includes document uploads and automated loan updates.
- Offers a "float-down" interest rate lock.
- Offers government-backed mortgage and refinance options, including FHA, USDA and VA loans.
Cons
- No online mortgage rates — you have to contact the lender for info.
Why this LENDER made the list
PrimeLending offers a variety of FHA loans for purchase and refinance, including 203k renovation loans, and has a full online application process.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for FHA Loans (TIE)
Min. down payment
3.5%
National / regional
Regional
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Min. down payment
3.5%
National / regional
Regional
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Min. down payment
3.5%
National / regional
Regional
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Pros
- Offers an ITIN qualification path for borrowers ineligible for Social Security numbers.
- Has a digital application process.
- Offers government-backed mortgage options for low- to moderate-income borrowers.
Cons
- No mortgage rates published online.
- No home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Generally has higher rates and fees than other lenders.
- Branch offices not available in all states.
Why this LENDER made the list
Alterra originates a high volume of FHA loans and has a wide variety of options. It offers flexible credit and income requirements, and a digital application.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Home Equity Lines of Credit
National / regional
National
Min. Credit Score
640
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
National / regional
National
Min. Credit Score
640
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
National / regional
National
Min. Credit Score
640
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
Pros
- Offers both traditional and interest-only HELOCs.
- Displays sample rates for its entire array of loan products, and you don't need to provide personal information to get a custom rate quote.
Cons
- Lacks document upload and online loan tracking capabilities.
Why this LENDER made the list
Connexus offers multiple HELOC options with no prepayment penalties, offers discounts for existing customers and charges low origination fees.
Read our methodologyDisclaimer
Frequently Asked Questions
NerdWallet's award winners are chosen through a rigorous evaluation process involving more than four dozen of our writers and editors. NerdWallet's ratings formulas for credit cards, for example, consider the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features. For mortgages, our evaluation includes loan types, loan products, online capabilities, online rate information, customer service and complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. For more info, see our methodologies.
Our team of Nerdy experts is composed of writers and editors — based all across the country — who have years of experience reviewing and writing about personal finance products for consumers.
Writers and editors use comprehensive scoring formulas that assess each financial product’s key features, weighting them according to their importance to consumers.
Nope. Editorial team members are solely responsible for creating all product reviews and ratings, and these assessments reflect their opinions alone. Only products that meet the editorial team’s standards appear in our Best-Of Awards lists, meaning no company can “buy” an award.
NerdWallet’s awards are given annually to the best of the best. Our other lists of top financial products throughout the year may be longer than the list of award winners, offer additional consumer choices and get updated as products change, products are discontinued and new products emerge. This year's winners were chosen in mid-November 2020 (except for Taxes, which are chosen in January 2021).
Our 2020 Best-Of Award winners are still live. If you’d like to see who won last year, feel free to take a look and compare with this year’s winners.
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