Best Mortgage Lenders of 2026

The reason we chose Quicken as our best overall mortgage lender is simple: their nationwide reach combined with excellent customer service. In 2019, the Mortgage Bankers Association and the Veterans Administration reported that the company originated the highest percentage of loans in almost every category, from conventional to VA loans.

That being said, we all know size doesn't necessarily equal quality. Quicken, though, has significant strength in customer service and a surprisingly low level of complaints for an institution of its size. Quicken is rated "Among the Best" according to JD Power's Primary Mortgage Origination Satisfaction Study, which takes into account each company's application and approval process, communication, loan closing, and loan offerings. In fact, Quicken has consistently ranked highest in customer satisfaction for loan originations with JD Power for 10 consecutive years.

Quicken's ​YOURgage​ program is another thing that sets it apart from the pack. YOURgage allows borrowers to choose the term of their fixed-rate mortgage and get a loan of up to $510,400. First-time homebuyers can pay as little as 3% down. This is especially helpful for first-time homebuyers who may not have 20% saved for a down payment.

Finally, as Quicken has completed 96% of all electronic mortgage closings in the country, the company has a wealth of experience completing the process online, which is highly convenient for most applicants these days.

Size, reach, and options are important, but only if the company has the customer service chops to back it up. We chose Quicken as the "best overall" mortgage lender because it is most likely to be available to you and offers solid service at the same time. However, if you're looking for something more focused on your area or needs, read on.

 

AmeriSave Overview

AmeriSave has been in business for 17 years and is licensed in 49 states. The company is a direct lender and has funded more than $55 billion in loans to date. AmeriSave is highly rated by the Better Business Bureau and consumer reviewers on Trustpilot.

Fast Pre-Qualification and Detailed Quotes

The AmeriSave website makes it very easy to pre-qualify for a loan. You'll answer some basic questions to verify your identity and the property you're interested in, define your down payment intentions, and whether you might be eligible for government-backed loan programs. Interestingly, once you do, the site will provide you with its estimate of your current credit score. That's something you probably should know before you start shopping for a mortgage, but if you haven't downloaded your credit report, AmeriSave gives you an important bit of information that will help you investigate other loan options, too. You will need to provide your phone number to receive a quote and agree to receive marketing messages from the company, but you can opt out of marketing messages thereafter. The entire process takes about three minutes. When we tested the system—both for a first mortgage and refinancing—AmeriSave returned a rather astonishing range of mortgage offers based on the data we provided. 

Amerisave also offers a 90-day certified Lock & Shop interest rate that protects you from rate hikes while you’re shopping for a house. The locked rate does not require a signed purchase contract, which gives you more flexibility.

Screenshot from AmeriSave.com May 2021

Wide Range of Choices

When we requested a mortgage quote, we received over 30 loan options to consider. In our test case, all of the offers were for fixed mortgages with terms ranging from 10 to 30 years. However, AmeriSave states on its website that variable-rate loans are also available. Depending on your circumstances and credit profile you may be able to choose either a 5/1, 7/1, or 10/1 adjustable rate mortgage. "Short-timers"—homebuyers who intend to stay in their homes for just a few years—can often take advantage of the lower interest rates and payments variable-rate loans typically offer. You can contact the company by phone if the choices you are offered don't suit your needs, of course.

In addition to conventional mortgages, AmeriSave also offers qualified homebuyers VA, USDA, and FHA mortgages. These loans typically have less stringent down payment requirements—sometimes as low as 0%. Government-backed loan programs are often available to homebuyers with less-than-ideal credit histories, as well.

But it wasn't just the number of loan options AmeriSave served up that impressed us. The quotes provided were detailed and included points or credits in addition to specific rates. These details empower customers to compare actual loan costs more accurately and see how they can lower their monthly payments and overall loan costs by changing the loan term they opt for. Moreover, AmeriSave presents options in a well-organized, graphically inviting fashion. Comparing options was a simple, pleasant experience.

Certified Approval Letter

If you decide you want to take advantage of one of the loan options AmieriSave presents, you can go ahead and request a Certified Approval Letter. If you have all the necessary documents to complete your application, you may receive this letter in just a few hours. AmeriSave also stands behind its approvals. Once you are pre-approved, if you are unable to close on your loan, AmeriSave promises to pay you $1,500 if your loan doesn’t close. Restrictions apply but be sure to ask an AmeriSave representative if you qualify for its Certified Closing Promise.

Customer Experience

AmeriSave streamlines the loan shopping and application experience. You can complete the process entirely online. That's not unusual among online lenders. However, many customers are likely to appreciate the transparency AmeriSave provides along the way. The company also provides a variety of helpful resources for homebuyers, including payment and affordability calculators, simple-to-understand explanations of loan types, a well-organized FAQ section, and a large library of helpful articles on subjects ranging from how to improve your credit to how to find the perfect starter home.

Screenshot from AmeriSave.com May 2021

AmeriSave Summed Up

AmeriSave is a terrific first stop for homebuyers who want to compare a wide range of realistic mortgage offers quickly and easily. The company stands out for its transparency, detailed offers, and comprehensive educational and support materials, as well.