Finding the right lender can save you thousands — or cost you big. See how mortgage rates are trending now before locking in a loan with one of the best mortgage lenders of 2025. Based on rates, service, digital experience, and approval speed, these five stand out.
All recommendations reflect current reviews, rate averages, and service data as of Q2 2025.
Top 5 mortgage lenders in 2025
1. Rocket Mortgage
Best for: Fast digital applications
- Fully online experience
- Pre-approval in minutes
- Competitive rates with customizable terms
- Website: rocketmortgage.com
2. Better Mortgage
Best for: No fees and fast closing
- $0 lender fees
- Transparent pricing
- Lightning-fast processing (as little as 3 weeks)
- Website: better.com
3. Chase
Best for: Traditional banking customers
- In-person branches + strong digital tools
- Homebuyer grants and discounts
- Competitive rates for existing customers
- Website: chase.com/mortgage
4. PNC Bank
Best for: First-time homebuyers
- Low down payment options
- Educational tools and calculators
- Easy-to-navigate online pre-approval
- Website: pnc.com
5. Navy Federal Credit Union
Best for: VA loans and military families
- Zero-down VA loans
- No PMI for qualifying borrowers
- Excellent service ratings among military members
- Website: navyfederal.org
How we chose these lenders
We ranked lenders based on:
- Rate averages compared to national benchmarks
- Speed of approval and closing
- Digital experience (mobile apps, online portals)
- Transparency of fees
- User reviews and J.D. Power scores
Looking to refinance instead of buy? Read our latest mortgage rate roundup here.
What to look for in a mortgage lender
- Interest rate vs. APR — APR includes lender fees
- Prepayment penalties — avoid lenders that charge them
- Fee structure — some lenders charge application or underwriting fees
- Loan types — make sure they offer the loan program you need (FHA, VA, jumbo, etc.)