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About ZeroMortgage by Interfirst
ZeroMortgage by Interfirst (NMLS #7872) is an online-based mortgage lender that exclusively offers conventional home loans. Its loan products are available in 41 states as well as Washington, D.C. The company has originated $36 billion in loans and provides potential loan applicants with free rate quotes directly from its website.
Rates
ZeroMortgage does not advertise its current rates online, so you have to request a personalized rate quote. However, in 2020 and 2021, the company offered an average rate that was slightly better than the national average.
Keep in mind that mortgage rates are affected by personal factors, like your credit history and debt-to-income ratio, as well as external factors, like the economy and the state you live in.
ZeroMortgage only offers fixed-rate mortgages; if you want an adjustable rate, you’ll need to choose another lender. This is a good option for borrowers looking for a predictable monthly payment.
ZeroMortgage average home purchase rate vs. national average
Year | Difference from national average |
---|---|
2021 | -0.12% |
2020 | -0.15% |
2019 | N/A |
Application process
To start the application process with ZeroMortgage, you can request a rate quote on the company’s website. It then asks a few questions about your financial situation, including what your estimated credit score is and how much you plan to offer as a down payment.
This rate quote won’t affect your credit score, and the process should only take a few minutes, as long as you have this information in mind ahead of time. In order to receive your rate quote, you need to provide a valid email address and phone number, though.
You can complete a loan application after you get a rate quote. Expect this application to ask for more detailed information, like your income, and be prepared to upload documentation, including tax returns and bank statements. ZeroMortgage uses this information, as well as other undisclosed factors, to determine your loan eligibility.
ZeroMortgage Mortgage Company application features
Features | Availability |
---|---|
Online application | |
Mobile document upload | |
Physical branches | X |
Publishes minimum rate on website | X |
Rate lock | 15 to 60 days |
Pre-qualification (no hard credit pull) | |
Certified approval letter | X |
Loan types
ZeroMortgage only offers conventional mortgages, so it has no FHA, VA or USDA loan options. However, it does help with refinancing for borrowers looking to get lower rates. Loan terms range from 10 to 30 years.
In 2021, ZeroMortgage initiated 2,481 loan applications. Of those applications, 1,288 loans were originated. About 8% of applications were denied.
Loan applications for home purchases only by year
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |
---|---|---|---|
Home purchase applications | 2,481 | 178 | N/A |
Home purchase loans closed | 1,288 | 79 | N/A |
Home purchase applications denied | 204 | 28 | N/A |
Home purchase preapprovals denied | 0 | 0 | N/A |
Refinancing
In 2021, ZeroMortgage primarily originated refinance loans. Only 9.3% of its loans that year were for home purchases. This isn’t uncommon, though — refinancing was a popular choice for many borrowers in 2020 and 2021 due to record low interest rates.
Since 2021, rates have been rising, which makes refinancing a less attractive option for most borrowers. However, you may still consider refinancing your existing loan if you are certain you can save money in the long run.
Even small reductions in interest rates could save you thousands over the life of the loan. Just keep in mind that refinancing does come with closing costs, which can cost 2% to 6% of the loan amount. Weigh any potential interest savings against the upfront costs of refinancing.
Home purchase vs. refinance loans by year
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |
---|---|---|---|
Home purchase loans | 9.3% | 2.34% | N/A |
Refinance loans | 89.22% | 95.14% | N/A |
Cash-out refinance | 0% | 0% | N/A |
Requirements
ZeroMortgage does not publish information about its borrower requirements. However, most lenders adhere to conventional loan requirements set by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, often requiring at least a 620 credit score.
National mortgage requirements by type
Min. credit score | Min. down payment | Compare with other lenders | |
---|---|---|---|
Conventional | Typically 620 | Typically 3% | Mortgage lenders |
Costs and fees
ZeroMortgage doesn't charge application fees, underwriting fees or lender fees. However, borrowers may still need to pay for third-party fees and other closing costs, which typically include property taxes, home appraisal fees, homeowner’s insurance premiums, private mortgage insurance premiums (if you put down less than 20%) and other fees. Most closing cost totals fall between 2% and 6% of the loan amount.
Once you apply for a mortgage with ZeroMortgage, you should get a formal Loan Estimate, which will give an approximate breakdown of your interest rate, monthly payment and closing costs.
FAQ
What is ZeroMortgage?
ZeroMortgage is an Illinois limited liability company offering home loans. Its corporate name is Chicago Mortgage Solutions LLC, but it does business under the ZeroMortgage name.
Is ZeroMortgage legit?
ZeroMortgage is a legitimate mortgage lender that has originated $36 billion in loans.
Where is ZeroMortgage available?
ZeroMortgage is available in 41 states and Washington, D.C. However, it’s not currently available in:
- Alaska
- Idaho
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Vermont
- Washington
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- 4,568,019 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.
Sources
- NMLS Consumer Access, “ Chicago Mortgage Solutions .” Accessed August 24, 2022.
- Fannie Mae, “ ELIGIBILITY MATRIX .” Accessed August 24, 2022.
ZeroMortgage by Interfirst Company Information
- Company Name:
- ZeroMortgage by Interfirst
- Website:
- www.zeromortgage.com