Smart mortgage decisions start here
Our Nerds reviewed rates, fees and more from a variety of lenders — including HELOC lenders — to bring you the best mortgage lenders of 2023. While some winners may be partners, this didn't influence our decisions.
![large star logo](https://www.nerdwallet.com/cdn/NW-awards/2023/images/hero/2X/green-burst-6-2x.png)
![small star logo](https://www.nerdwallet.com/cdn/NW-awards/2023/images/hero/2X/blue-star-2x.png)
![medium star logo](https://www.nerdwallet.com/cdn/NW-awards/2023/images/hero/2X/pink-burst-2x.png)
![desktop promo logo](https://www.nerdwallet.com/cdn/NW-awards/2023/images/hero/2X/mortgages-hero-2x.png)
Check out the winners
Best Mortgage Lender Overall
at NBKC
at NBKC
620
3%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
3%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
3%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC offers a variety of loan types with low rates and fees, including government-backed mortgages. It’s easy to browse options and apply online.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Home Equity Lines of Credit
![Bethpage Federal Credit Union](https://www.nerdwallet.com/cdn-cgi/image/quality=85/cdn/img/home/mortgage/lenders/Bethpage_EqualHousingLender.png)
at Bethpage Federal Credit Union
at Bethpage Federal Credit Union
National
85%
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
National
85%
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
National
85%
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Why our Nerds love it
Bethpage offers a home equity line of credit with a high borrowing limit, no annual fee and a fixed-rate option. It’s easy to see HELOC qualifications, too.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for First-Time Home Buyers
620
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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.
620
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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.
620
3%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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, including options for borrowers who work for themselves and those without Social Security numbers.
- 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 our Nerds love it
Wells Fargo offers loans for first-time buyers seeking flexible down payment or credit score options, with relatively low rates and fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for FHA Loans
580
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
580
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
580
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Why our Nerds love it
Pennymac is a repeat winner in this category with several FHA loans and transparent rates, a fully digital application and low FHA origination fees compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Cash-Out Refinancing
at NBKC
at NBKC
660
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
660
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
660
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC has easy-to-find rates and a convenient online application. It offers a significant volume of cash-out refinancing with unusually low origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Refinancing
at NBKC
at NBKC
620
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC offers several refinance options, including government-backed loans, with easy-to-find rates and low origination fees compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for VA Loans
at NBKC
at NBKC
620
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
620
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC originates a significant percentage of VA loans, has low fees compared with other lenders and offers a convenient online application process.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Jumbo Loans
620
10.01%
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.
620
10.01%
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.
620
10.01%
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 our Nerds love it
Wells Fargo wins again with jumbo loans for various properties, down payments under 20%, competitive origination fees and low rates compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyFrequently asked questions
- be longer than our Best-Of Awards list
- offer additional consumer choices
- get updated as products change or are discontinued and as new products emerge
This year's Best-Of-Awards list winners were chosen in mid-October 2022.
Get nerdy recommendations