The best in
Our experts compared everything from affordability to borrower experience to determine the best mortgage lenders of 2025. While some lenders may be partners, this didn’t influence our decisions.
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At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation of . Read more about how we scored the 2025 Bankrate Awards winners in .
See our top picks
Best mortgage lender overall
Chase
Why they won
Chase is the nation’s largest bank and a major mortgage lender. Combining branch and online service, the bank makes it easy to determine your specific mortgage rate online, and tends to offer attractive home loan deals overall, especially for banking customers. The bank also rates well in customer service.
Top features
- 4,700 branch locations
- Conventional and government-backed loans
- First-time homebuyer programs and assistance
Best non-bank
New American Funding
Why they won
New American Funding is a non-bank, or independent, mortgage lender that works with qualified borrowers across the U.S. It’s especially focused on underserved communities and first-time homebuyers. In addition to the usual array of loan types, the lender also offers non-qualified mortgages (non-QM) and options for self-employed borrowers.
Top features
- 14-business day closing guarantee
- Transparent rates via its website
- Services most loans
Best for refinancing
Chase
Why they won
Along with home purchase loans that helped make it our pick for best mortgage lender overall, Chase offers several refinancing options, plus a custom rate tool and other features on its website to make it easy to compare offers and estimate costs.
Top features
- Rate-and-term, cash-out and streamline options
- Refinance rates updated regularly online
- Online home value estimator and other helpful tools
See the latest mortgage rates
Check out today’s rates and compare lenders all in one place.
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Best for first-time homebuyers
Chase
Why they won
Chase caters to all types of borrowers, including first-time homebuyers. The bank provides affordable loan programs and grants — including one up to $7,500 for homebuyers in 8,500 eligible minority communities nationwide — as well as comprehensive resources on its website to help first-timers navigate the process.
Top features
- Homebuyer grants
- Online guide and calculators for new homeowners
- Robust customer service in person, online or by phone
Best for FHA loans
Rate
Why they won
Formerly known as Guaranteed Rate, Rate works with qualified borrowers in all U.S. states. While the lender offers most mortgage programs, it’s particularly active as an FHA lender, originating nearly 21,000 FHA loans in 2023 (the latest year for which data is available).
Top features
- More than 600 branch locations
- Mobile app to get and manage your mortgage
- Bilingual loan officers and application process for Spanish-speaking borrowers
Best for VA loans
Veterans United Home Loans
Why they won
Veterans United Home Loans has been the leading VA lender for some time, originating more than 100,000 VA loans in 2023 (the latest year for which data is available). It boasts rave reviews, including five out of five star ratings from 99 percent of borrowers on Bankrate.
Top features
- See current rates and obtain a quote through its website
- Easily apply online or via mobile app
- In-person service near some military bases and defense hubs
Best for no fees
Better
Why they won
Better is an entirely online mortgage lender promising convenience and speed without the fees many other lenders charge. Its advertised rates tend to run slightly lower than Bankrate’s averages, too.
Top features
- $100 rate-matching guarantee
- $250 closing costs discount to borrowers who complete specific loan application tasks
- HELOC option for homeowners
Best for low or bad credit
Veterans United Home Loans
Why they won
Veterans United Home Loans is a major player in VA loans, mortgages often geared to borrowers with lower credit scores. The lender also offers FHA and USDA loans, with similarly flexible credit requirements.
Top features
- Can work with non-traditional credit situations
- No mortgage insurance on VA loans
- Conditional approvals in as little as 24 hours for eligible borrowers
Best for giving back
Bank of America
Why they won
Bank of America has prioritized building opportunities for homeownership with several initiatives, including up to $10,000 in down payment assistance and up to $7,500 in closing cost discounts for eligible borrowers. The bank also routinely helps finance affordable housing projects around the country.
Top features
- Low-down payment loan options
- Online rate quotes
- Educational programming for first-time homebuyers
Explore the best of the best
Check out the 2025 Bankrate Awards winners across our top categories.
