


Georgia Rose
Johanna Arnone
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Best for low average interest rates
Our take on Andrews Federal Credit Union
Andrews Federal Credit Union is on the smaller side, but offers big value through low rates and fast closings. Its online rate quote tool is exceptionally informative. Renovation loans aren’t available, and the lender tells us VA and FHA loans aren’t a priority.
Best for North Carolina area borrowers
Our take on State Employees' Credit Union
State Employees’ Credit Union in North Carolina is worth checking out for those in the Southeast who meet its narrow membership criteria — especially first-time home buyers eligible for generous grants and specialty loans. But it doesn’t offer government-backed mortgages.
Best for notably low average fees
Our take on NBKC
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.
Best for military borrowers
Our take on Navy Federal
Navy Federal is known for VA lending, but its flexible VA-like loan options truly stand out. You'll need a military connection to join the credit union.
Best for loan variety
Our take on U.S. Bank
U.S. Bank offers a broad selection of mortgages, including some niche options. Rates and fees are middle of the road, per federal data. The bank offers helpful tech for rate shopping and live chat, though its online application could be smoother.
Best for app-savvy borrowers
Our take on Citibank
Citi stands out for offering low mortgage rates compared to other lenders reviewed by NerdWallet, though fees are similar to competitors. Qualified borrowers can get a mortgage with 3% down and no private mortgage insurance, and Citi customers can get a discount on rates or closing costs.
Best for ease of online applications
Our take on SoFi
SoFi offers perks for existing customers, including a discount on closing costs and accessible customer support. The site primarily highlights conventional home loan offerings, so borrowers looking for other loan types may need to reach out directly for more details.
Best for competitive interest rates
Our take on First Federal Bank
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.
Best for California borrowers
Our take on Golden 1 Credit Union
Golden 1, a California-based credit union, dedicates a significant portion of its business to jumbo loans — useful for those navigating the state’s high home prices. However, VA and USDA loans aren’t available.
Best for low minimum down payment
Our take on Alliant
Alliant Credit Union allows you to see a wide range of customized mortgage rates without sharing any personal information, though customer service is geared toward credit union members.
Best for a one-stop shopping experience
Our take on Better
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.
Best for first-time home buyers
Our take on Flagstar
Flagstar Bank stands out for having a wide variety of home loan options, including harder-to-find products. But take note that Flagstar has reduced its mortgage business as part of corporate restructuring. Executives have indicated that the lender will rebuild its home lending operations by focusing on the needs of banking clients.
Best for low-credit borrowers
Our take on Tomo
Tomo, established in 2020, is an online-only lender with a focus on digital efficiency and purchase loans. We’re impressed with its customizable mortgage rate tool. Average rates are on the low side, too. However, you won’t find home equity products. Mortgages are available in 34 states and counting.
40+
Lenders reviewed
4
Categories assessed
160+
Data points analyzed
5.0
Overall score
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