Best Mortgages & Refinancing
A mortgage is the largest loan most people ever take, so small differences compound enormously. We rank lenders by rate and, just as important, by fees and the loan-estimate transparency that tells you the true cost. Always compare the APR, not just the rate.
The best mortgages & refinancing in 2026 is the Veterans United Home Loans, which tops our ranking with a money8020 score of 94/100. We track 6 mortgages & refinancing, 6 with rates checked against the provider and a regulator. All 6 are ranked and compared below.
Which lender offers the lowest all-in cost — rate plus fees — for my situation?
Top 3 in this category.
Veterans United Home Loans
Veterans United mortgage review — strengths, fit, and how to compare.
Rocket Mortgage
Rocket Mortgage mortgage review — strengths, fit, and how to compare.
Better Mortgage
Better mortgage review — strengths, fit, and how to compare.
All 6, ranked.
Compare the numbers.
Click a column header to sort.
| Product | APR | Annual fee | Score | Tier | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Veterans United Home Loans Veterans United | — | — | 94 | Essential | View |
| Rocket Mortgage Rocket Mortgage | — | — | 93 | Essential | View |
| Better Mortgage Better | — | — | 82 | Strong | View |
| Rate (formerly Guaranteed Rate) Rate | — | — | 82 | Strong | View |
| Chase Mortgage JPMorgan Chase | — | — | 81 | Strong | View |
| PNC Mortgage PNC Bank | — | — | 79 | Strong | View |
Run the numbers
Estimate what this could mean for you.
Frequently asked questions about mortgages & refinancing
What's the difference between interest rate and APR on a mortgage?
The interest rate determines your monthly principal-and-interest payment. The APR folds in lender fees and points, giving a fuller picture of the loan's annual cost. When comparing lenders, the APR is the more honest apples-to-apples number.
How many mortgage lenders should I compare?
At least three. Rates and fees vary meaningfully between lenders for the same borrower, and getting multiple loan estimates is the single highest-return hour in the home-buying process. Submit applications within a short window so the credit inquiries count as one.