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Compare Top Mortgage Lenders of April 2026Reach out to multiple lenders to see how much you can save. It pays to compare your options.
Excellent (760+)
California
Applied Filters: Excellent (760+), Loan amount: $100,000, State: California
Our pick for: No application fees
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at Rocket Mortgage, LLCMin. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros + Cons
ProsOffers down payment and closing cost assistance.Largest lender, by volume, of FHA loans in 2024.Borrowers can apply via mobile app.
ConsAverage origination fees are on the higher side, according to the latest federal data.No HELOCs.No physical branches.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: 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.
Our pick for: Rate transparency and customer experience
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at New American FundingMin. credit score
580
Min. down payment
N/A
Pros + Cons
ProsOffers a wide variety of purchase and refinance mortgages, as well as unique buyer assistance programs.Its home equity line of credit can be used for a primary residence or second home.
ConsAverage origination fees are on the high side, according to the latest federal data.Personalized mortgage rates are not available on the website without providing contact information.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: New American Funding offers a large menu of loan products, as well as programs like first-time home buyer assistance, but personalized mortgage rates aren't available on its website.
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at Veterans UnitedMin. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros + Cons
ProsOffers a range of VA mortgages, including refinance, energy-efficient and jumbo.24/7 customer service line supports servicemembers stationed internationally.Average time to close is 34 days, faster than the national average.
ConsAverage origination fee is on the higher side, according to the latest federal data.Website doesn’t have online chat.No renovation loans.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: Veterans United originates more VA mortgages than any other lender. Though average fees are on the higher side, it’s a solid pick for veterans and military borrowers looking for a VA loan with ample support along the way.
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at NBKCMin. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros + Cons
ProsCompetitive interest rates and fees.Offers most common loan types, as well as a handful of specialty loans.Payouts are available to borrowers whose loans don’t close on time.
ConsCustomer service is only accessible over the phone for many mortgage customers.Does not offer renovation loans.Home equity products are not currently a lending priority.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: NBKC stands out for its attractive interest rates and fees, and is primarily an online lender — though its app does not have mortgage features and chat support is not geared toward mortgage borrowers.
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at First Federal BankMin. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros + Cons
ProsStrong experience in FHA and VA lending.Average mortgage rates are on the low side, according to the latest federal data.Minimum credit score requirement of 580 for some loans, which is lower than some competitors.
ConsNo mobile app.Home equity lending is not a priority.Does not offer renovation loans, but does offer construction loans.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: First Federal Bank stands out for its exceptionally low interest rates and its emphasis on government loans. Most likely to appeal to borrowers shopping for low rates and fees.
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros + Cons
ProsHas a wide variety of mortgage types, including home equity products.Offers lower interest rates than many competitors.Sample online rates are customizable by location.
ConsWe struggled to contact customer service.The lender scores poorly for customer satisfaction on Zillow.Does not offer construction loans.
NerdWallet's take
Why we like it: Better stands out for its attractive interest rates and wide range of mortgage types, including for condos and manufactured homes. Better offers connections with homeowners insurance providers and real estate attorneys, as well as title insurance. However, the lender could improve its customer service.
