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Updated January 2026

Find the Best Mortgage Lender for Your Home Loan

We compared 15+ mortgage lenders and home equity providers to find the best rates, lowest fees, and fastest closings. Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or tapping into your home equity, we've got you covered.

15+ Lenders Compared
500+ Data Points
$0 Hidden Fees
Our #1 Pick

Amerisave Leads the Pack

After extensive testing, Amerisave stands out as the best mortgage lender for most borrowers.

Complete Lender Comparison

How each mortgage lender stacks up in our testing

A

Rocket Mortgage

9

The largest mortgage lender in the US, known for its streamlined digital experience and fast closings.

Starting Rate: From 6.125%
Online App
Pre-Approval
FHA Loans
VA Loans
  • Fully digital process
  • Fast closing times
  • Strong brand reputation
Visit Site
A

Better.com

8.7

Tech-focused lender offering a completely online mortgage experience with no commission-based loan officers.

Starting Rate: From 6.250%
Online App
Pre-Approval
FHA Loans
VA Loans
  • No origination fees
  • Price match guarantee
  • Fast digital closing
Visit Site
B

LoanDepot

8.4

Large direct lender with both online and in-person options, offering a wide range of loan products.

Starting Rate: From 6.375%
Online App
Pre-Approval
FHA Loans
VA Loans
  • Hybrid online/in-person
  • Many loan options
  • Lifetime guarantee on refinancing
Visit Site
B

Guaranteed Rate

8.2

Established lender combining technology with personalized service through local loan officers.

Starting Rate: From 6.500%
Online App
Pre-Approval
FHA Loans
VA Loans
  • Digital tools + personal service
  • Wide geographic coverage
  • Fast pre-approvals
Visit Site
B

New American Funding

8

Family-owned lender known for excellent customer service and helping underserved borrowers.

Starting Rate: From 6.625%
Online App
Pre-Approval
FHA Loans
VA Loans
  • Great for first-time buyers
  • Manual underwriting available
  • Bilingual support
Visit Site

What Type of Loan Do You Need?

Find the right mortgage product for your situation

🏠

First-Time Buyers

Get guidance through your first home purchase with low down payment options and educational resources.

💰

Refinancing

Lower your monthly payment or tap into home equity with competitive refinance rates.

🏦

HELOC

Access your home equity with a flexible line of credit. Ideal for real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and homeowners who need revolving capital.

🏛️

FHA Loans

Government-backed loans with lower credit requirements and small down payments.

🏢

Jumbo Loans

Financing for luxury homes and high-cost areas exceeding conforming limits.

📊

DSCR Loans

Investment property financing based on rental income, not personal W-2s. Built for real estate investors scaling their portfolio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about getting a mortgage

What credit score do I need for a mortgage?

Most conventional lenders require a minimum credit score of 620, though FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580. For the best rates, aim for 740 or higher. Amerisave works with a wide range of credit profiles and can help you understand your options.

How much can I borrow for a home?

Your borrowing capacity depends on your income, debts, credit score, and down payment. Most lenders use a debt-to-income ratio of 43% or less. Getting pre-approved gives you a clear picture of your budget before house hunting.

What's the difference between APR and interest rate?

The interest rate is the cost of borrowing the principal loan amount. APR (Annual Percentage Rate) includes the interest rate plus other costs like origination fees and points, giving you a more complete picture of the total cost.

Why do you recommend Amerisave?

In our testing, Amerisave consistently offered the lowest rates, fastest pre-approval process, and most transparent fee structure. Their digital-first approach saves time, and their customer satisfaction scores are among the highest in the industry.

What is a HELOC and how does it work?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit secured by your home. During the draw period (typically 5-10 years), you can borrow as needed and only pay interest on the amount drawn. After the draw period, you enter repayment where you pay both principal and interest. HELOCs offer flexible access to funds without refinancing your existing mortgage.

Can I get a HELOC with commission-based or self-employed income?

Yes. While traditional banks often require consistent W-2 income, lenders like Amerisave accommodate non-traditional income sources including commission-based earnings, self-employment income, and variable revenue. They evaluate long-term earning patterns rather than requiring month-to-month consistency, making them a strong choice for real estate agents, entrepreneurs, and freelancers.

Ready to Find Your Best Rate?

Get pre-approved in minutes with Amerisave - no credit impact to check your rate.

Check Your Rate Now