Best Mortgage Lenders of 2026

AmeriSave Mortgage, Tomo Mortgage and ClearPath Lending are our top picks

  • Best overall
    AmeriSave Mortgage
    4.7(6,312)
  • Fast closing
    Tomo Mortgage
    4.7(76)
  • Low loan costs
    ClearPath Lending
    4.6(1,764)
+2 more
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Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

Best Mortgage Lenders of 2026

Getting a mortgage is one of the most important decisions you can make. The right lender can make homeownership possible. But the wrong one can complicate the process. The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared dozens of mortgage lenders to help you find the best lender for your financial situation.

After reviewing ratings, fees and availability, AmeriSave Mortgage stands out as the best overall lender. If you want to close quickly, Tomo Mortgage has some of the shortest closing timelines. ClearPath Lending stands out for having relatively low overall loan costs.

Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
  • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
  • 4,874,223 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.

Our 6 picks for the best mortgage lenders

  1. Best overall: AmeriSave Mortgage
  2. Best for fast closing: Tomo Mortgage
  3. Best for low loan costs: ClearPath Lending
  4. Best for loan variety: Lower
  5. Best for VA loans: Veterans United Home Loans
  6. Best customer service: NewDay USA

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated mortgage companies using a scoring model designed to reflect what matters most: borrower experience, loan process and affordability. Read our full methodology for details on how we ranked the best mortgage lenders.

Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our recommendations or evaluations. Our publishing policy ensures that the journalistic content and user reviews on ConsumerAffairs remain independent of commercial influences.

Compare the best mortgage companies

AmeriSave Mortgage logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
580 to 620
Minimum down payment
0% to 3.5%
Availability
49 states and Washington, D.C.
Why we picked AmeriSave Mortgage

AmeriSave Mortgage stands out for its wide range of loan options, competitive rates and smooth online process. We like its simple prequalification process that lets you check rates without hurting your credit score.

This is a strong choice for homebuyers who want flexibility and prefer managing everything digitally. It also works with other types of borrowers, whether you’re buying a new home or refinancing.

Availability

AmeriSave is available in all states except New York.

What reviewers say

People like AmeriSave’s easy application process and responsive loan officers. A few reviewers mention delays or challenges for self-employed applicants, but most feedback is positive overall.

Types of loans for buyers
  • FHA 
  • VA 
  • Jumbo 
  • USDA 
  • DSCR 
  • Low-income home loans
More loan options
  • Refinance
  • Cash-out refinance
  • FHA refinance
  • Jumbo loan refinance
  • USDA refinance
  • Home equity loan
  • Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
  • Community lending programs
How to apply

Apply online through AmeriSave’s website. You can view rates, upload documents and get prequalified with a soft credit check. Once preapproved, you can lock in your rate for up to 90 days and receive a certified approval letter for home shopping.

Pros
  • Competitive rates
  • Easy online application
  • No origination or application fees on some loans
  • Rate buydown options
Cons
  • No physical branches
  • Harder for self-employed borrowers to qualify
  • Occasional underwriting delays
Best for fast closing
Tomo Mortgage logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
580
Minimum down payment
0% to 3.5%
Availability
Most states
Why we picked Tomo Mortgage

Tomo Mortgage can close on your loan in as little as 12 days. This lender is best if you are a tech-savvy, first-time buyer or a repeat buyer looking for the lowest possible closing costs and a fast, digital experience.

Funding is available for single-family houses, townhomes, condos, manufactured homes and two- to four-unit buildings (for primary residences). Fixed-rate terms are typically 15 or 30 years. Tomo also offers 5-, 7- and 10-year ARMs, which start at a minimum loan value of $75,000.

Availability

Tomo services loans in all states except for Delaware, Hawaii, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and West Virginia.

What reviewers say

Tomo reviewers on our site consistently tell us about low rates and cost savings. However, it seems that the company may have room for improvement when it comes to consistency in communication.

Types of loans
  • Conventional
  • Jumbo
  • FHA
  • VA
How to apply

Tomo Mortgage uses a fast, mostly online application process that skips a lot of traditional paperwork. Instead of uploading documents, you link your financial accounts so your income and assets can be verified quickly.

You can get a strong preapproval (sometimes fully reviewed by an underwriter) before you find a home, which can help your offer stand out.

Pros
  • Can match competitor rates
  • No lender fees on some loans
  • No prepayment penalties
  • Discount points available
Cons
  • Some communication issues
  • Some post-closing servicing problems
Best for low loan costs
ClearPath Lending logo
Mortgage rates
Higher than average
Minimum credit score
580 to 700
Minimum down payment
3.5%
Availability
30 states
Why we picked ClearPath Lending

ClearPath Lending stands out for offering some of the lowest closing costs and small down payment options in the industry. It’s a great choice if you want to spend less up front or if your credit isn’t perfect.

We also like ClearPath’s best-price guarantee, which includes matching rates from select competitors, plus a loyalty program for returning borrowers.

Availability

ClearPath Lending is currently licensed in the following states:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho 
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Kentucky 
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Michigan 
  • Montana
  • Nebraska 
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico 
  • North Carolina 
  • Ohio 
  • Oklahoma 
  • Oregon 
  • Pennsylvania 
  • South Carolina
  • Tennessee 
  • Texas 
  • Virginia 
  • Wisconsin
What reviewers say

Many customers say ClearPath Lending offers great service and responsive loan officers. Some reviewers, however, mention delays or issues with escrow payments.

Types of loans
  • Conventional
  • FHA
  • VA
  • Jumbo
  • Refinance (VA IRRRL and FHA streamline)
How to apply

You can start your application online or by phone. After that, a ClearPath representative will guide you through the next steps. Borrowers can upload documents and track progress through the ClearPath Lending Portal.

NOTE: ClearPath claims you can prequalify for a mortgage in as little as 15 minutes, but it’s unclear if that applies to refinancing. You also won’t be able to access more information about ClearPath’s refinancing rates or process until you apply online.

Pros
  • Friendly, personalized support
  • Best-price guarantee
  • Loyalty program for returning borrowers
  • Easy loan tracking through an online portal
Cons
  • Not a fully online process
  • Some reports of delays or unexpected fees
  • Limited transparency on refinancing rates
Best for loan variety
Lower logo
Mortgage rates
Average
Minimum credit score
580
Minimum down payment
3.5%
Availability
Most states
Why we picked Lower

Lower works well for first-time homebuyers who want conventional home loans or adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs). It’s also a solid option for other types of loans. Overall, this is a good choice if you want to spend less upfront or if your credit isn’t perfect.

Availability

Lower is not currently licensed in Hawaii, Indiana, New York or Vermont.

What reviewers say

Many highlight Lower’s smooth process, good communication and competitive rates. Some have expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency or issues with loan servicing after the mortgage was sold to another company.

Types of loans for buyers
  • FHA 
  • VA 
  • USDA 
  • Jumbo
Refinancing loans
  • Cash-out refinancing
  • HELOC
More loan options
  • Home improvement 
  • Debt consolidation 
  • Home equity loans
How to apply

You can apply online or through Lower’s mobile app. You can get preapproved, upload documents, track your progress and communicate with your loan officer in one place.

Pros
  • Low closing costs
  • Small down payment options
  • Flexible credit score requirements
  • Support available through text and mobile app
Cons
  • No quick closing guarantee
  • Limited transparency on some details
  • Not licensed in all states
Veterans United Home Loans logo
Mortgage rates
Lower than average
Minimum credit score
620
Minimum down payment
0%
Availability
Nationwide
Why we picked Veterans United Home Loans

We picked Veterans United as best for VA loans because it’s built from the ground up to serve military members, veterans and their families. The company has helped more veterans buy homes than any other VA lender in recent years.

Veterans United is known for its knowledgeable loan officers, helpful online tools and smooth process from start to finish. It’s built to guide service members through the unique steps of VA financing and help them get the best rates possible.

What reviewers say

Borrowers often praise Veterans United for its clear communication, respectful service and expertise with VA loans. Some mention small delays or unexpected fees, but overall, customer feedback is very positive.

Types of loans
  • VA purchase loans
  • VA streamline refinance (IRRRL)
  • VA cash-out refinance
  • VA renovation loan
  • VA Energy Efficient Mortgage
  • Native American Direct Loan (NADL)
How to apply

You can apply online, by phone or in person. The first step is to confirm your VA loan eligibility. After preapproval, the company guides you through the full application process. Veterans United can close loans in as little as three weeks, though most take about 35 to 50 days.

Pros
  • Specializes in VA loan programs
  • Streamlined, easy-to-follow application
  • Low interest rates
  • Helpful online resources
Cons
  • Some reports of communication issues
  • Occasional delays in loan processing
Best customer service
NewDay USA logo
Mortgage rates
Undisclosed
Minimum credit score
600
Minimum down payment
0%
Availability
28 states
Why we picked NewDay USA

Like Veterans United, NewDay USA also specializes in VA-guaranteed home loans. It’s our pick for best customer service among mortgage lenders thanks to excellent user reviews across all categories. It’s a great choice if you want a lender that communicates clearly and helps guide you through.

Overall, NewDay USA offers a highly specialized mortgage support model tailored exclusively for veterans and active-duty service members.

Availability

NewDay USA is licensed in most states. It is not currently taking new loan applications in Massachusetts, North Dakota, New York, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont or West Virginia. Certain loans are not available in Texas.

What reviewers say
Types of loans
  • VA home loan
  • VA cash-out refinancing
How to apply

NewDay USA’s process starts with a required phone consultation, followed by manual document uploads such as a DD-214 and Certificate of Eligibility.

A dedicated VA loan expert handles underwriting and issues an underwritten “Cash Buyer Certificate” instead of instant pre-approval.

Pros
  • Flexible loan terms
  • Offers refinancing services
  • Connects veterans with mortgage experts
Cons
  • No rates online
  • No online applications
  • Not available in all states

Methodology: How we found the best mortgage lenders

The ConsumerAffairs Research Team evaluated mortgage companies using a structured scoring model. We assessed several metrics across three core areas: borrower experience, loan process and affordability.

1. Customer experience (based on verified reviews)

Review data reflects verified feedback submitted to ConsumerAffairs between March 1, 2023, and Feb. 28, 2026. In addition to measuring company response rate to reviewer feedback and customer reviews from the past six months, we measured satisfaction with:

  • Staff
  • Loan process
  • Customer service
  • Rates
2. Loan process

Company-reported service details are accurate as of publishing. We evaluated:

  • Loan types
  • Closing time
3. Affordability

We compared affordability by looking at closing costs and minimum down payment requirements.

How scoring works

Companies earned a 0 to 10 score for every metric:

  • The top-performing company for a given metric earned a 10.
  • Other lenders were scored relative to that leader.

This standardized system lets us compare satisfaction data, pricing and service features on the same scale.

How winners were determined

All companies were evaluated using the same metrics. Award categories apply different weightings, depending on what the designation highlights.

For example, “best for fast closing” places greater weight on average closing timelines, while “best for loan variety” emphasizes availability of different types of mortgages.

The company with the highest weighted score in each category earned the corresponding “Our pick for” designation. If a company ranked first in multiple categories, we awarded the designation to the next-highest scoring company in that category to highlight a broader group of top performers.

Mortgage Lenders Buyers Guide

Jump into our guides and start learning

Top Picks

See who reviewers like

AmeriSave Mortgage logo
Tomo Mortgage logo
ClearPath Lending logo
See our top picks

Simplify your search

Easily compare personalized rates.

Getting a mortgage is a major financial commitment. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the mortgage application process, from understanding requirements to closing on your new home.

Key insights

A mortgage rate is the interest rate charged by a lender on a home loan. It determines how much you’ll pay in interest over time in addition to repaying the borrowed amount.

Jump to insight

During the preapproval process, a lender reviews your financials to determine how much you can borrow.

Jump to insight

According to our latest study, Syracuse, New York; Green Bay, Wisconsin; and Rockford, Illinois are the best metros for homeowners right now.

Jump to insight

Mortgage rates

Mortgage rates are the interest rates lenders charge on home loans, and they determine how much you’ll pay in interest over the life of your loan.

“Mortgage rates are influenced by a combination of factors, and understanding these factors can help buyers secure the best mortgage rate, even in a high-rate environment,” explained Shmuel Shayowitz, president and chief lending officer at Approved Funding, a multistate direct mortgage lender.

Factors like inflation, Federal Reserve policies and bond market trends impact overall mortgage rate movements. Lenders also change rates based on competition and their own business strategies.

Current mortgage rates

Rates are effective 02/05/2026 and are subject to change without notice. APR shown is provided by a partner of ConsumerAffairs.

The APR shown of 6.716% is available for a 30-year fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

The APR shown of 6.398% is available for a 20-year fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

The APR shown of 5.742% is available for a 30-year VA fixed rate loan in the amount of $200,000 for consumers with loan-to-value of at least 80%.

Rates are subject to change; use is subject to terms of use.

How to choose a mortgage lender

The best mortgage lenders offer competitive rates, transparent fees and loan options that match your financial profile.

1. Compare loan options and fees

Start by finding a lender that offers the type of home loan you need. Most people choose between government-backed loans and conventional loans. Each type has its own rules for credit scores, down payments and who can qualify.

Types of mortgages

*VA and USDA programs do not set official minimum credit scores, but most lenders like to see a score of 620 or higher.

What to know about origination fees

Origination fees differ by lender and cover costs like processing and underwriting. Most borrowers pay between 0.5% and 2% of the loan amount, though some lenders charge a flat fee of about $1,000 or less.

Other expenses, such as property taxes and title insurance, stay about the same no matter which lender you choose.

2. Consider the approval timeline

Online lenders are usually faster and easier to use, but local banks or credit unions can give you more personal help.

Ask how long it takes to get approved and close on your loan. Most lenders take 30 to 45 days, but some can close faster.

3. Check reviews and reputation

When reading reviews, watch for warning signs like poor communication, surprise fees or paperwork mistakes. Pick a lender with good reviews for customer service and a smooth loan process.

Should I work with a broker?

A mortgage broker connects you with different lenders and helps you compare rates. Working with a broker can save time and money if you want to compare multiple options and find the best rate.

» MORE: Mortgage broker vs. lender

How to apply for a mortgage

Applying for a mortgage involves a series of clear steps, from preparing your finances, researching rates, getting prequalified to closing on your loan.

1. Prepare your finances

Mortgage requirements vary by loan type, but most lenders look at three main things:

  • Credit score: Your credit score affects both your loan options and your interest rate. Most mortgages require a score between 500 and 620, though higher scores can help you get better rates and loan terms.
  • Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: This number compares how much debt you pay each month to how much you earn before taxes. Most lenders prefer a DTI below 43%. A lower debt-to-income ratio makes it easier to qualify and can increase how much you can borrow.
  • Down payment: A 20% down payment helps you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), but many lenders offer lower down payment options between 0% and 3.5%. Your down payment requirement depends on the loan type and your credit score. Some mortgages, like VA and USDA loans, don’t require any down payment at all.

Did you know?

Your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio compares your loan amount to your home’s appraised value. A lower LTV (which means you put more money down) reduces the lender’s risk and may help you qualify for better rates.

» RELATED: Income needed for a $300k mortgage

2. Gather documents

Lenders need to verify your income, savings and job history. Having these ready can speed things up:

  • Pay stubs from the last 30 to 60 days
  • W-2 forms from the last two years
  • Tax returns (especially if self-employed)
  • Bank statements showing your savings and assets

3. Research rate options

Most lenders offer either fixed or adjustable interest rates.

  • Fixed-rate mortgages have the same rate for the entire loan (usually 15 or 30 years). They make it easier to plan your budget because your payment won’t change.
  • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) start with a lower rate that changes later. For example, a 10/1 ARM has a fixed rate for 10 years, then adjusts each year based on the market. An ARM can be a good choice if you plan to sell or refinance before the rate increases.

4. Get prequalified

Getting preapproved gives you a clear idea of how much house you can afford. It’s quick, doesn’t affect your credit score (no hard credit check) and helps you understand your budget.

It does not guarantee final loan approval, but it does give you a competitive edge in the homebuying process by showing sellers you are financially prepared to move forward.

5. Get preapproved

Preapproval is when the lender reviews your financial documents and credit report to give you a conditional loan offer with a set amount and interest rate.

Preapproval usually takes a few days to two weeks. Once approved, you’ll get a preapproval letter that shows sellers you’re a serious buyer. Most letters are valid for 60 to 90 days and strengthens your position when making an offer on a home.

6. Find a home and make an offer

After you’re preapproved, work with a real estate agent to find a home that fits your budget.

Always include your preapproval letter when you make an offer. This shows sellers that you are a serious buyer with financing ready.

7. Go through underwriting and conditional approval

Once your offer is accepted, the lender’s underwriting team reviews your financial details and orders an appraisal to confirm the home’s value. If everything looks good, you’ll receive conditional approval (meaning the lender just needs a few final items before full approval).

8. Get final loan approval

When all the conditions are met, you’ll receive final approval. This means your loan is ready to close.

At least three days before closing, your lender will send you a closing disclosure listing all your final terms and costs.

9. Close on your loan

At closing, you’ll sign the final paperwork, pay any remaining closing costs and finalize your mortgage.

You’ll usually work with your lender and a real estate attorney during this final step. Once closing is complete, you’ll receive the keys to your new home.

Explore average closing costs by state

The best places to buy a home

If you’re looking for the perfect place to buy a home, there are a few key factors to consider. Ideally, you find somewhere affordable and safe, but you don’t want a housing market that’s too volatile.

To find the best places to buy a home in 2026, we analyzed data from 166 metro areas with populations of at least 300,000. For each metro, we compared metrics for affordability, safety and climate risk, as well as the stability, growth and fluidity of the housing market. Below, see how your metro stacks up.

BEST METROS TO BUY A HOME

  1. Syracuse, New York
  2. Green Bay, Wisconsin
  3. Rockford, Illinois
  4. Scranton, Pennsylvania
  5. Rochester, New York

WORST METROS TO BUY A HOME

  1. San Francisco, California
  2. Miami, Florida
  3. Los Angeles, California
  4. Naples, Florida
  5. Austin, Texas

FAQ

How does a mortgage work?

A mortgage is a loan you use to buy a home. You borrow money from a bank, credit union or mortgage company and agree to pay it back over time with interest.

Your monthly mortgage payment usually includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI)

Your loan agreement lists how much you borrow, your interest rate and how long you’ll take to pay it off — usually 15 to 30 years. The home itself acts as collateral, meaning the lender can repossess it through foreclosure if you fail to make payments.

» HOW TO: Buy a home in 12 steps

Is now a good time to get a mortgage?

The real estate market is constantly fluctuating, so it’s hard to say when the “best” time to buy is. Right now, interest rates are high and inventory is low in many areas.

If rates drop later, more people will qualify for loans. But that can also lead to more competition and bidding wars.

» MORE: Homeownership statistics by state

How long does it take to get a mortgage?

The total time to obtain a mortgage — from application approval to closing — is typically anywhere from 30 to 60 days. However, this timeline may change depending on several factors, such as delays in the underwriting process or appraisal scheduling.

What are the different types of mortgages?

The two main types of mortgage loans are government-backed loans and conventional loans.

When a government entity backs a loan, it’s less risky for a private lender. This often translates to greater savings and less strict credit requirements for the borrower. These are the most common types of government-backed home loans:

  • FHA: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans have a relatively low credit score requirement. You need at least a 3.5% down payment.
  • USDA: Backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA loans have a low- or no-down-payment option for buyers in rural areas. Upfront and annual guarantee fees (similar to mortgage insurance) are required.
  • VA: Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans also have low- or no-down-payment options for active military personnel and veterans.

Conventional loans, which are not insured by the government, come in two categories: conforming and nonconforming.

  • Conforming loans: These must meet Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac requirements (such as a maximum debt-to-income ratio and minimum credit score) to make them safe investments for individuals and institutions. In 2026, the maximum conforming loan limit in most of the country is $832,750.
  • Nonconforming loans: Since these do not meet the Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac standards, nonconforming loan lenders set their own guidelines and limitations. For example, jumbo loans are nonconforming loans with amounts exceeding the conforming loan limit. You need good credit (often 700-plus) and a large down payment to be eligible.

» RELATED: Best mortgage lenders for refinancing

What is a second mortgage?

With a second mortgage, you’re borrowing against the equity you’ve built in your home, using it as collateral. Like your original (primary) mortgage, it comes with fixed terms, monthly payments and interest. But it’s separate from your first mortgage.

Home equity loans and lines of credit are the most common types of second mortgages:

Can I pay my mortgage off early?

Many mortgage lenders allow early repayment, but some may include prepayment penalties. Check with your lender to understand any restrictions or fees.

What credit score do I need for the best mortgage rates?

To qualify for the best mortgage rates, most lenders look for a credit score of 740 or higher. Borrowers with scores in the mid-700s and above typically receive the lowest available interest rates and best loan terms.

You can still qualify for a mortgage with a lower score, often as low as 500 to 620 depending on the loan type, but you’ll likely pay a higher interest rate.

Are online mortgage lenders safe?

Yes, many online mortgage lenders are safe and legitimate. Reputable online lenders are licensed, follow federal and state regulations and use secure technology to protect your personal information.

Before applying, confirm the lender is registered in your state, read customer reviews and compare loan estimates to make sure rates and fees are competitive.

Guide sources

ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

  1. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, “Mortgages.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.
  2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, “Looking for the Best Mortgage.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.
  3. U.S. General Services Administration, “Government-backed home loans and mortgage assistance.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.
  4. U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Single Family Housing Programs.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.
  5. U.S. General Services Administration, “Fannie Mae.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.
  6. Federal Housing Finance Agency, “FHFA Announces Conforming Loan Limit Values for 2026.” Accessed Feb. 26, 2026.

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