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Best Mortgage Lenders of 2026

Amerisave, Lower and Tomo are our top picks

  • Best overall
    AmeriSave Mortgage
    4.6(6,451)
  • Loan variety
    Lower
    4.7(297)
  • Fast closing
    Tomo Mortgage
    4.5(84)
+2 more
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

Best Mortgage Lenders of 2026

AmeriSave Mortgage is our pick for the best mortgage lender of 2026. Lower stands out for offering the best loan variety, but Tomo is the better pick if you’re on a tight deadline.

The right mortgage lender can affect how much you pay, how quickly you close and which loans you qualify for. We compared lenders based on rates, fees, loan options, customer reviews and other factors to find the best choices for different borrowers.

Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
  • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
  • 4,965,928 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
  • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
  • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
  • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

Our 6 picks for the best mortgage lenders

  1. Best overall: AmeriSave Mortgage
  2. Best loan options: Lower
  3. Best for fast closing: Tomo
  4. Best VA loans: Veterans United Home Loans
  5. Best for personalized service: ClearPath Lending
  6. Best for keeping costs down: Rocket Mortgage

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated mortgage lenders based on customer reviews, rates and fees, loan options, availability and the overall borrowing experience. We focused on what matters most to homebuyers: affordability, a smooth mortgage process and reliable service.

Read our full methodology to see how we ranked the best mortgage lenders.

Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations. Our publishing policy ensures that the journalistic content and user reviews on ConsumerAffairs remain independent of commercial influences.

Compare the best mortgage lenders

Learn More About Mortgage Lenders
AmeriSave Mortgage logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
500 to 620
Minimum down payment
0% to 3.5%
Availability
49 states and Washington, D.C.
Why we picked AmeriSave Mortgage

AmeriSave is our best overall pick because it offers competitive rates, lots of loan options and an easy online process. You can check rates and prequalify with a soft credit check, so it won’t hurt your credit score.

It’s a good fit if you want to shop for a mortgage online and have several loan options to choose from.

Pros
  • Competitive rates
  • Wide range of loan options
  • Easy online application
  • No origination or application fees on some loans
  • Rate buydown options
Cons
  • No physical branches
  • May be harder for self-employed borrowers to qualify
  • Some reports of underwriting delays
4x Award Winner
AmeriSave Mortgage won four 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Loan Process, Best Experience with Staff, Best Value for Price, and Best Customer Service.
What reviewers say

Reviewers often describe the application process as fast and easy, with helpful loan officers. Some ran into communication gaps or unexpected fees and closing costs.

Types of loans for buyers
  • Conventional
  • FHA
  • VA
  • Jumbo
  • USDA
  • DSCR
  • Low-income home loans

More loan options

  • Refinance
  • Cash-out refinance
  • FHA refinance
  • Jumbo loan refinance
  • USDA refinance
  • Home equity loan
  • Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
  • Community lending programs

How to apply

You can apply online through AmeriSave’s website. From there, you can check rates, upload documents and get prequalified with a soft credit check. Eligible borrowers can also lock in a rate for up to 90 days while shopping for a home.

Availability: All states except New York

Best loan options
Lower logo
Mortgage rates
Average
Minimum credit score
580
Minimum down payment
3.5%
Availability
Most states
Why we picked Lower

Lower is a good choice if you want several types of home loans to compare. It offers conventional, FHA, VA, USDA and jumbo loans, plus options for refinancing, home equity and home improvement.

It may also work well if you want a smaller down payment or have less-than-perfect credit.

Pros
  • Low closing costs
  • Low down payment options
  • Flexible credit requirements
  • Text and app support
Cons
  • No fast-closing guarantee
  • Some loan details are hard to find
  • Not available in every state
What reviewers say

Reviewers frequently mention responsive, patient loan officers who explain the process clearly and stay in touch from application through closing.

Types of loans for buyers
  • Conventional
  • FHA
  • VA
  • USDA
  • Jumbo

More loan options

  • Cash-out refinance
  • HELOC
  • Home equity loan

How to apply

You can apply online or through Lower’s mobile app. You can get preapproved, upload documents, track your progress and communicate with your loan officer in one place.

Availability: All states except Hawaii, New York or Vermont

Best for fast closing
Tomo Mortgage logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
580
Minimum down payment
0% to 3.5%
Availability
Most states
Why we picked Tomo Mortgage

Tomo is a good choice if you want to close quickly and handle most of the mortgage process online. It can close some loans in as little as 12 days and doesn’t charge lender fees, though third-party closing costs still apply.

This lender is best if you are a tech-savvy, first-time buyer or a repeat buyer looking for low closing costs and a fast, digital experience.

Availability: All states except Delaware, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia

Pros
  • Can match competitor rates
  • No prepayment penalties
  • Discount points available
  • No lender origination, processing or underwriting fees
Cons
  • Some communication issues
  • Some post-closing servicing problems
What reviewers say

Reviewers like Tomo’s competitive rates, no origination fees and responsive communication. Some reported advertised rates that didn’t match expectations or communication problems that delayed closing.

Types of loans

Funding is available for single-family houses, townhomes, condos, manufactured homes and two- to four-unit buildings (for primary residences). Fixed-rate terms include 15, 20 and 30 years. 

  • Conventional
  • Jumbo
  • FHA
  • VA

How to apply

You can apply for a Tomo mortgage mostly online. Instead of uploading a lot of paperwork, you can link your financial accounts so Tomo can verify your income and assets.

You may also be able to get a preapproval before you find a home, which could help your offer stand out.

Veterans United Home Loans logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum FICO score
620
Availability
Nationwide
Time to close
45 days
Why we picked Veterans United Home Loans

Veterans United specializes in VA loans for veterans, service members and eligible military families. Its loan officers know the VA loan process well and can help guide you through each step.

It’s the best choice if you want a lender that focuses heavily on VA loans and offers plenty of help along the way.

Pros
  • Specializes in VA loans
  • Easy-to-follow application process
  • Helpful loan officers
  • Useful online resources
Cons
  • Some reports of communication problems
  • Some borrowers report processing delays
4x Award Winner
Veterans United Home Loans won four 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Loan Process, Best Experience with Staff, Best Value for Price, and Best Customer Service.
What reviewers say
Reviewers often say the process feels smooth and well organized, with knowledgeable loan teams guiding them through each step. First-time buyers especially appreciated the extra support.
VA loan options
  • VA purchase loans
  • VA streamline refinance (IRRRL)
  • VA cash-out refinance
  • VA renovation loan
  • VA Energy Efficient Mortgage

How to apply

You can apply online, by phone or in person. Veterans United first helps confirm that you’re eligible for a VA loan. Once you’re preapproved, a loan team guides you through the rest of the process.

Most VA loans close in about 30 to 45 days. Veterans United says its average clear-to-close time was 44 days in 2025, though some loans close faster.

Best for personalized service
ClearPath Lending logo
Mortgage rates
Higher than average
Minimum credit score
580 to 700
Minimum down payment
3.5%
Availability
30 states
Why we picked ClearPath Lending

ClearPath is a good fit if you want more help during the mortgage process. Reviewers often mention friendly loan officers, clear communication and an easy application process.

It also offers a best-price guarantee and a loyalty program for returning borrowers.

Pros
  • Friendly, personalized support
  • Best-price guarantee
  • Loyalty program for returning borrowers
  • Online loan tracking
Cons
  • Not fully online
  • Some reports of delays or unexpected fees
  • Limited rate details before you apply
2x Award Winner
ClearPath Lending won two 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Value for Price and Best Customer Service.
What reviewers say

Reviewers often mention an easy application process, helpful loan officers and savings on VA refinances. A few reported communication delays.

Types of loans
  • Conventional
  • FHA
  • VA
  • Jumbo
  • USDA
  • Refinance (VA IRRRL and FHA streamline)

How to apply

You can start your application online or by phone. From there, a ClearPath loan officer helps guide you through the process.

You can upload documents and track your loan through its online portal. ClearPath says you may be able to prequalify in as little as 15 minutes.

Availability: ClearPath Lending is currently licensed in the following states:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Michigan
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • North Carolina
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • Wisconsin
Best for low loan costs
Rocket Mortgage logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
580 to 620
Minimum down payment
0% to 3.5%
Availability
Nationwide
Why we picked Rocket Mortgage

Rocket Mortgage is the best choice if you want to keep loan costs down and compare rates easily. It posts current rates for several loan types online and updates them regularly. It’s also a good fit if you want a fast, fully online mortgage process.

Pros
  • Publishes mortgage rates online
  • Fully online application
  • Available nationwide
  • Offers several common loan types
Cons
  • No in-person branches
  • No construction loans
  • No HELOCs
  • Some complaints about service after closing
2x Award Winner
Rocket Mortgage won two 2026 Buyer's Choice Awards from ConsumerAffairs for Best Loan Process and Best Experience with Staff.
What reviewers say
Reviewers generally like Rocket’s easy digital process and helpful loan officers. Complaints are more common after closing, especially around customer service, reaching a real person and escrow or payment problems.
Common mortgage options
  • Conventional
  • FHA
  • VA
  • Jumbo
  • Refinance

How to apply

You can apply online, through Rocket’s app or by phone. You can submit documents, track your loan and complete much of the process online.

Methodology: How we chose the best mortgage lenders

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared mortgage lenders using verified customer reviews, loan options, closing times and costs.

We analyzed verified reviews submitted between Sept. 1, 2023, and Aug. 31, 2026, focusing on satisfaction with:

  • Staff
  • Loan process
  • Customer service
  • Rates

We also compared:

  • Mortgage loan types
  • Typical closing time
  • Closing costs
  • Minimum down payment

Recent review activity and company response rates were included too.

How winners were determined

Each lender received a score from zero to 10 for each metric. We then weighted those scores differently depending on the award. For example, “Best for fast closing” gives more weight to closing speed, while “Best loan variety” focuses more on the types of mortgages available.

The highest-scoring lender generally earned the corresponding “Our pick for” designation. In some cases, we selected another high-scoring lender to give borrowers a broader range of strong options to compare.

Mortgage Lenders Buyers Guide

Jump into our guides and start learning

Top Picks

See who reviewers like

AmeriSave Mortgage logo
Lower logo
Tomo Mortgage logo
See our top picks

Simplify your search

Easily compare personalized rates.

Getting a mortgage is a major financial commitment. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the mortgage application process, from understanding requirements to closing on your new home.

Key insights

A mortgage rate is the interest rate charged by a lender on a home loan. It determines how much you’ll pay in interest over time in addition to repaying the borrowed amount.

Jump to insight

During the preapproval process, a lender reviews your financials to determine how much you can borrow.

Jump to insight

According to our latest study, Syracuse, New York; Green Bay, Wisconsin; and Rockford, Illinois are the best metros for homeowners right now.

Jump to insight

Mortgage rates

Mortgage rates are the interest rates lenders charge on home loans, and they determine how much you’ll pay in interest over the life of your loan.

“Mortgage rates are influenced by a combination of factors, and understanding these factors can help buyers secure the best mortgage rate, even in a high-rate environment,” explained Shmuel Shayowitz, president and chief lending officer at Approved Funding, a multistate direct mortgage lender.

Factors like inflation, Federal Reserve policies and bond market trends impact overall mortgage rate movements. Lenders also change rates based on competition and their own business strategies.

Current mortgage rates

Rates are effective 02/05/2026 and are subject to change without notice. APR shown is provided by a partner of ConsumerAffairs.

The APR shown of 6.716% is available for a 30-year fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

The APR shown of 6.398% is available for a 20-year fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

The APR shown of 5.742% is available for a 30-year VA fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

Rates are subject to change; use is subject to terms of use.

How to choose a mortgage lender

The best mortgage lenders offer competitive rates, transparent fees and loan options that match your financial profile.

1. Compare loan options and fees

Start by finding a lender that offers the type of home loan you need. Most people choose between government-backed loans and conventional loans. Each type has its own rules for credit scores, down payments and who can qualify.

Types of mortgages

*VA and USDA programs do not set official minimum credit scores, but most lenders like to see a score of 620 or higher.

Types of mortgages

The two main types of mortgage loans are government-backed loans and conventional loans.

When a government entity backs a loan, it’s less risky for a private lender. This often translates to greater savings and less strict credit requirements for the borrower. These are the most common types of government-backed home loans:

  • FHA: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans have a relatively low credit score requirement. You need at least a 3.5% down payment.
  • USDA: Backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA loans have a low- or no-down-payment option for buyers in rural areas. Upfront and annual guarantee fees (similar to mortgage insurance) are required.
  • VA: Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans also have low- or no-down-payment options for active military personnel and veterans.

Conventional loans, which are not insured by the government, come in two categories: conforming and nonconforming.

  • Conforming loans: These must meet Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac requirements (such as a maximum debt-to-income ratio and minimum credit score) to make them safe investments for individuals and institutions. In 2026, the maximum conforming loan limit in most of the country is $832,750.
  • Nonconforming loans: Since these do not meet the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac standards, nonconforming loan lenders set their own guidelines and limitations. For example, jumbo loans are nonconforming loans with amounts exceeding the conforming loan limit. You need good credit (often 700-plus) and a large down payment to be eligible.

» RELATED: Best mortgage lenders for refinancing

What to know about origination fees

Origination fees differ by lender and cover costs like processing and underwriting. Most borrowers pay between 0.5% and 2% of the loan amount, though some lenders charge a flat fee of about $1,000 or less.

Other expenses, such as property taxes and title insurance, stay about the same no matter which lender you choose.

2. Consider the approval timeline

Online lenders are usually faster and easier to use, but local banks or credit unions can give you more personal help.

Ask how long it takes to get approved and close on your loan. Most lenders take 30 to 45 days, but some can close faster.

3. Check reviews and reputation

When reading reviews, watch for warning signs like poor communication, surprise fees or paperwork mistakes. Pick a lender with good reviews for customer service and a smooth loan process.

Should I work with a broker?

A mortgage broker connects you with different lenders and helps you compare rates. Working with a broker can save time and money if you want to compare multiple options and find the best rate.

» MORE: Mortgage broker vs. lender

How to apply for a mortgage

Applying for a mortgage involves a series of clear steps, from preparing your finances, researching rates, getting prequalified to closing on your loan.

1. Prepare your finances

Mortgage requirements vary by loan type, but most lenders look at three main things:

  • Credit score: Your credit score affects both your loan options and your interest rate. Most mortgages require a score between 500 and 620, though higher scores can help you get better rates and loan terms.
  • Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: This number compares how much debt you pay each month to how much you earn before taxes. Most lenders prefer a DTI below 43%. A lower debt-to-income ratio makes it easier to qualify and can increase how much you can borrow.
  • Down payment: A 20% down payment helps you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but many lenders offer lower down payment options between 0% and 3.5%. Your down payment requirement depends on the loan type and your credit score. Some mortgages, like VA and USDA loans, don’t require any down payment at all.

Did you know?

Your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio compares your loan amount to your home’s appraised value. A lower LTV (which means you put more money down) reduces the lender’s risk and may help you qualify for better rates.

» RELATED: Income needed for a $300k mortgage

2. Gather documents

Lenders need to verify your income, savings and job history. Having these ready can speed things up:

  • Pay stubs from the last 30 to 60 days
  • W-2 forms from the last two years
  • Tax returns (especially if self-employed)
  • Bank statements showing your savings and assets

3. Research rate options

Most lenders offer either fixed or adjustable interest rates.

  • Fixed-rate mortgages have the same rate for the entire loan (usually 15 or 30 years). They make it easier to plan your budget because your payment won’t change.
  • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) start with a lower rate that changes later. For example, a 10/1 ARM has a fixed rate for 10 years, then adjusts each year based on the market. An ARM can be a good choice if you plan to sell or refinance before the rate increases.

4. Get prequalified

Getting preapproved gives you a clear idea of how much house you can afford. It’s quick, doesn’t affect your credit score (no hard credit check) and helps you understand your budget.

It does not guarantee final loan approval, but it does give you a competitive edge in the homebuying process by showing sellers you are financially prepared to move forward.

5. Get preapproved

Preapproval is when the lender reviews your financial documents and credit report to give you a conditional loan offer with a set amount and interest rate.

Preapproval usually takes a few days to two weeks. Once approved, you’ll get a preapproval letter that shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Most letters are valid for 60 to 90 days and strengthens your position when making an offer on a home.

6. Find a home and make an offer

After you’re preapproved, work with a real estate agent to find a home that fits your budget.

Always include your preapproval letter when you make an offer. This shows sellers that you are a serious buyer with financing ready.

7. Go through underwriting and conditional approval

Once your offer is accepted, the lender’s underwriting team reviews your financial details and orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. If everything looks good, you’ll receive conditional approval (meaning the lender just needs a few final items before full approval).

8. Get final loan approval

When all the conditions are met, you’ll receive final approval. This means your loan is ready to close.

At least three days before closing, your lender will send you a closing disclosure listing all your final terms and costs.

9. Close on your loan

At closing, you’ll sign the final paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs and finalize your mortgage.

You’ll usually work with your lender and a real estate attorney during this final step. Once closing is complete, you’ll receive the keys to your new home.

Explore average closing costs by state

The best places to buy a home

If you’re looking for the perfect place to buy a home, there are a few key factors to consider. Ideally, you find somewhere affordable and safe, but you don’t want a housing market that’s too volatile.

To find the best places to buy a home in 2026, we analyzed data from 166 metro areas with populations of at least 300,000. For each metro, we compared metrics for affordability, safety and climate risk, as well as the stability, growth and fluidity of the housing market. Below, see how your metro stacks up.

BEST METROS TO BUY A HOME

  1. Syracuse, New York
  2. Green Bay, Wisconsin
  3. Rockford, Illinois
  4. Scranton, Pennsylvania
  5. Rochester, New York

WORST METROS TO BUY A HOME

  1. San Francisco, California
  2. Miami, Florida
  3. Los Angeles, California
  4. Naples, Florida
  5. Austin, Texas

FAQ

How does a mortgage work?

A mortgage is a loan you use to buy a home. You borrow money from a bank, credit union or mortgage company and agree to pay it back over time with interest.

Your monthly mortgage payment usually includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI)

Your loan agreement lists how much you borrow, your interest rate and how long you’ll take to pay it off — usually 15 to 30 years. The home itself acts as collateral, meaning the lender can repossess it through foreclosure if you fail to make payments.

» HOW TO: Buy a home in 12 steps

Is now a good time to get a mortgage?

The real estate market is constantly fluctuating, so it’s hard to say when the “best” time to buy is. Right now, interest rates are high and inventory is low in many areas.

If rates drop later, more people will qualify for loans. But that can also lead to more competition and bidding wars.

» MORE: Homeownership statistics by state

How long does it take to get a mortgage?

The total time to obtain a mortgage — from application approval to closing — is typically anywhere from 30 to 60 days. However, this timeline may change depending on several factors, such as delays in the underwriting process or appraisal scheduling.

What is a second mortgage?

With a second mortgage, you’re borrowing against the equity you’ve built in your home, using it as collateral. Like your original (primary) mortgage, it comes with fixed terms, monthly payments and interest. But it’s separate from your first mortgage.

Can I pay my mortgage off early?

Many mortgage lenders allow early repayment, but some may include prepayment penalties. Check with your lender to understand any restrictions or fees.

What credit score do I need for the best mortgage rates?

To qualify for the best mortgage rates, most lenders look for a credit score of 740 or higher. Borrowers with scores in the mid-700s and above typically receive the lowest available interest rates and best loan terms.

You can still qualify for a mortgage with a lower score, often as low as 500 to 620 depending on the loan type, but you’ll likely pay a higher interest rate.

Are online mortgage lenders safe?

Yes, many online mortgage lenders are safe and legitimate. Reputable online lenders are licensed, follow federal and state regulations and use secure technology to protect your personal information.

Before applying, confirm the lender is registered in your state, read customer reviews and compare loan estimates to make sure rates and fees are competitive.

Guide sources

ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

  1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, “Mortgages.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.
  2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, “Looking for the Best Mortgage.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.
  3. U.S. General Services Administration, “Government-backed home loans and mortgage assistance.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.
  4. U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Single Family Housing Programs.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.
  5. U.S. General Services Administration, “Fannie Mae.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.
  6. Federal Housing Finance Agency, “FHFA Announces Conforming Loan Limit Values for 2026.” Accessed Sept. 15, 2026.

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