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Compare Top Mortgage Lenders of September 2025Reach out to multiple lenders to see how much you can save. It pays to compare your options.
Applied Filters: Excellent (760+), Max loan amount: $100,000, State: California
Rocket Mortgage, LLC
Rocket Mortgage, LLCNMLS#3030
4.5
NerdWallet rating
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
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.
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at Rocket Mortgage, LLC
New American Funding
New American FundingNMLS#6606
Min. credit score
580
Min. down payment
N/A
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 New American Funding
Veterans United
Veterans UnitedNMLS#1907
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
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 Veterans United
NBKC
NBKCNMLS#409631
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
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 NBKC
First Federal Bank
First Federal BankNMLS#408902
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
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.
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at First Federal Bank
Better
BetterNMLS#330511
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Why we like it
Online-only lender Better offers a range of mortgage types and a one-stop shopping experience, though some borrowers may be turned off by the lender’s lack of chat support or a mobile app.
Fairway Independent Mortgage
Fairway Independent MortgageNMLS#2289
Min. credit score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Why we like it
Fairway Home Mortgage stands out for its volume of FHA loans, bonus offerings like title services, insurance quotes and utility transfers, as well as harder-to-find products like physician loans. However, the lender was penalized for discriminatory lending practices in 2024.
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at Fairway Independent Mortgage
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