Smart mortgage decisions start here
Our Nerds reviewed rates, fees and more from a variety of lenders — including HELOC lenders — to bring you the best mortgage lenders of 2023. While some winners may be partners, this didn't influence our decisions.
Check out the winners
Best Mortgage Lender Overall
Learn More
at NBKC
Learn More
at NBKC
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Pros
- Mortgage rates are on the low side compared to other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- VA loans represent more than a quarter of purchase volume, a larger share than many lenders NerdWallet reviews.
- Offers a variety of loan types for purchase and refinance, including fixed- and adjustable-rate loans and government options
Cons
- HELOCs and no-down-payment loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
- Mobile app focuses on online banking, not mortgages.
- You’ll need to share contact information to see customized mortgage rates.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC offers a variety of loan types with low rates and fees, including government-backed mortgages. It’s easy to browse options and apply online.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Home Equity Lines of Credit
Learn More
at Bethpage Federal Credit Union
Learn More
at Bethpage Federal Credit Union
National / regional
National
Max LTV
85%
Min. Credit Score
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
National / regional
National
Max LTV
85%
Min. Credit Score
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
National / regional
National
Max LTV
85%
Min. Credit Score
670
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Pros
- Offers a fixed-rate option.
- No closing costs.
- Offers a fixed introductory rate.
Cons
- Minimum draw required for best rate.
Why our Nerds love it
Bethpage offers a home equity line of credit with a high borrowing limit, no annual fee and a fixed-rate option. It’s easy to see HELOC qualifications, too.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for First-Time Home Buyers
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
3%
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates are shown for various loan products, along with the type of borrower and loan that would get them.
- Offers generous down payment and closing cost assistance programs for qualified borrowers.
- Market leader in number of jumbo loans and refinances originated, according to the latest federal data.
- Rate-and-term refinance interest rates offered are lower than average, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on existing bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer specialty home loans or equity borrowing (home equity loans or HELOC).
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Why our Nerds love it
Wells Fargo offers loans for first-time buyers seeking flexible down payment or credit score options, with relatively low rates and fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for FHA Loans
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Min. Credit Score
580
Min. down payment
3.5%
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Pros
- Dedicates a significant portion of its business to FHA lending.
- Displays custom rate quotes based on home value, down payment, ZIP code and credit score range.
- “Lock & Shop” lets you secure a rate for up to 90 days, even if you don’t have a purchase contract yet.
- FHA interest rates are on the lower end, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Origination fees for FHA loans are on the higher end, according to the latest federal data.
- Doesn't offer FHA renovation loans.
Why our Nerds love it
Pennymac is a repeat winner in this category with several FHA loans and transparent rates, a fully digital application and low FHA origination fees compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Cash-Out Refinancing
Learn More
at NBKC
Learn More
at NBKC
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
- Efficient customer service over the phone or through online chat.
Cons
- Physical branches are limited to the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC has easy-to-find rates and a convenient online application. It offers a significant volume of cash-out refinancing with unusually low origination fees.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Refinancing
Learn More
at NBKC
Learn More
at NBKC
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
National / regional
National
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
- Displays customized rates, with fee estimates, without requiring contact information.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC offers several refinance options, including government-backed loans, with easy-to-find rates and low origination fees compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for VA Loans
Learn More
at NBKC
Learn More
at NBKC
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
0%
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Pros
- Offers government-backed loans and some harder-to-find products, such as construction loans and specialty mortgages for pilots.
- Offers low rates and fees compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- HELOCs and construction-to-permanent loans are available only in the Kansas City metro area.
Why our Nerds love it
NBKC originates a significant percentage of VA loans, has low fees compared with other lenders and offers a convenient online application process.
Read our methodologyBest Mortgage Lender for Jumbo Loans
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
10.01%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
10.01%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Min. Credit Score
620
Min. down payment
10.01%
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Pros
- Sample rates clearly posted for various loan products.
- Offers a wide variety of loan types and products.
- Mortgage rates tend to be on the low side compared with other lenders, according to the latest federal data.
Cons
- Home loans business is broadly focused on bank customers.
- Doesn’t offer home improvement loans, or home equity loans or lines of credit.
- Scandals and government actions have damaged consumer trust in recent years.
Why our Nerds love it
Wells Fargo wins again with jumbo loans for various properties, down payments under 20%, competitive origination fees and low rates compared with other lenders.
Read our methodologyFrequently asked questions
NerdWallet's award winners are chosen through a rigorous evaluation process involving 43 writers and editors. NerdWallet's ratings formulas for credit cards, for example, consider the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel, or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards, and other features. For mortgages, our evaluation includes loan types, loan products, online capabilities, online rate information, customer service, and complaints filed with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. For more info, see our methodologies.
Our team of Nerdy experts is composed of writers and editors — based all across the country — who have a combined 452 years of journalistic experience reviewing and writing about personal finance products for consumers.
Yes. Writers and editors use comprehensive scoring formulas that assess each financial product’s key features, weighting them according to their importance to consumers.
Nope. Editorial team members are solely responsible for creating all product reviews and ratings, and these assessments reflect their opinions alone. Only products that meet the editorial team’s standards appear in our Best-Of Awards lists, meaning no company can “buy” an award.
Our Best-Of Awards are given annually to the top financial products on the market. Our other “best” articles may:
This year's Best-Of-Awards list winners were chosen in mid-October 2022.
- be longer than our Best-Of Awards list
- offer additional consumer choices
- get updated as products change or are discontinued and as new products emerge
This year's Best-Of-Awards list winners were chosen in mid-October 2022.
Our 2022 Best-Of Award winners are still live. If you’d like to see who won last year, feel free to take a look and compare with this year’s winners.
Get nerdy recommendations
Be confident you have the best financial products for you. Sign up to get product comparisons, articles, promotions, and more.
