How to Find a Mortgage Lender

To find a mortgage lender, begin by comparing options online, including lender ratings and reviews. Then, ask questions about the rates and fees, special programs, timelines and other expectations. That way, you’ll be fully informed before you commit to a lender and mortgage offer.

1. Know where to look for mortgage lenders

One of the best places to begin your mortgage lender search is online. About two-thirds of pre-approved buyers (65%) used a real estate website or app to review financing options, according to 2024 Zillow research. Many also relied on referrals from their real estate agent (61%) or searched directly through their current financial institution (54%).

Common places to find mortgage lenders

• Online: Virtually every type of lender has a website, and several lenders operate solely online. You can also find lenders through Zillow Group Marketplace. 
• Referrals: Your real estate agent can likely refer you to a lender, but bear in mind you don’t have to stick with their recommendation if you find an alternative that better fits your needs. You can also ask family, friends or colleagues for referrals.
• Banks and credit unions: Your bank or credit union may offer mortgages, or you could opt to work with a new institution that offers the loan you’re looking for.
• Mortgage brokers: A mortgage broker works with one or more lenders to help match you with loan offers.
• Local lenders: There may be local options in your area, such as a community or regional bank or an independent mortgage company.

2. Check lender ratings and reviews

Most mortgage lenders have at least some customer ratings and testimonials online. We have a lender directory at Zillow that can help you find lenders by location, the loan officer’s name and language preference. You can then sort results by customer reviews, distance and more.

These ratings and reviews can help you understand what to expect in terms of customer experience and service. Take note of any negative patterns, such as surprise fees, missed deadlines or unresponsive loan officers. 

3. Understand the fine print

Before choosing a mortgage lender, ask detailed questions. Some lenders show their rates online, for instance, but those rates are typically for sample scenarios. Other lenders may tout fast closings, no fees and other perks. Talk with a loan officer to ensure you understand exactly what you’ll get. This includes:

APR and interest rate

• What do I need to qualify for your lowest available interest rate?
• Does your lowest rate require me to pay points?
• What’s included in your annual percentage rate (APR)?
• Do you offer any rate discounts or incentive pricing?
• Do you offer rate locks?
• Do I qualify for a first-time home buyer or other special rate?
• What conditions do I need to maintain to keep the rate I was quoted?

Fees

• What fees do you charge? Get specific dollar amounts, rather than percentages, if possible.
• Are your fees negotiable?
• Are you offering lender credits?
• Which fees are paid upfront versus at closing?

Timelines

• How soon will I receive a pre-approval?
• How fast will my loan close? Be wary of lenders who say they can close in less than one week — by law, there's typically a mandatory waiting period of at least seven business days after you receive your Loan Estimate before a mortgage can close.
• Do you allow e-closings or remote notarizations?

Customer service

• How will you communicate with me (e.g., email, phone, text)?
• How often will you communicate updates about my loan status?
• Who should I contact with questions?
• If I contact you, when can I expect to hear back?

Special programs

• Do you offer down payment assistance or matching, no-PMI loans or other special programs?

Here’s our comprehensive list of questions to ask a mortgage lender.

Final thoughts on finding a mortgage lender

There are many types of mortgage lenders, and they can be found from a variety of sources, including referrals, your bank and online. Be thorough when evaluating options, and ask questions about the rates, fees, closing timelines, communication and any special or unique offerings.

When you’re ready to buy a home, you can get pre-qualified with us at Zillow Home Loans.* The process takes as little as five minutes with no impact to your credit score.

Zillow Home Loans; an equal housing lender. NMLS #10287