The Housing Market Is Tipping Toward Buyers—Top Mortgage Lenders To Consider Now

Forbes

4 days ago

In this story, we'll break down the top mortgage lenders and how buyers can qualify for the lowest ... More rates available.
Is the housing market finally tilting in buyers' favor? The latest numbers suggest it is, but getting a good deal still depends on more than just timing. Mortgage rates can vary significantly from one lender to the next, and the lowest advertised rate isn't always the cheapest once fees are factored in.
Don't assume your longtime bank will offer the best deal. It pays—literally—to shop around, compare offers and understand the difference between a loan's interest rate and its APR, or annual percentage rate. While a lender may advertise a tempting rate, higher fees can significantly increase the total cost of the loan. APR gives you the all-in picture, and it's what savvy borrowers use to compare.
Forbes Advisor tracks daily mortgage rates, so we'll show you which lenders are offering the most competitive advertised rates and what you need to know before locking one in.
Related: Find competitive mortgage rates near you through our partner Mortgage Resource Center
For the first time on record, sellers are outpacing buyers by nearly 500,000 nationwide, according to Redfin data from April 2025. That's a 34% gap, the widest since Redfin began tracking in 2013. Thirty-one of the 50 largest U.S. metros are now buyer's markets, with the biggest imbalances in Miami, West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Austin, Texas.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), existing-home sales fell 5.9% in March from the previous month and 2.4% year over year. At the same time, unsold inventory is growing and price growth is slowing. These trends could create more opportunity for buyers who've been shut out by bidding wars and all-cash offers.
Affordability remains a concern, though.
Median home prices are still high—$431,931 as of April, according to Redfin. However, they're expected to fall 1% by year's end.
Meanwhile, mortgage rates have hovered below 7% for five straight weeks.
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.89% as of May 29, down from 7.03% a year ago, according to Freddie Mac. That slight dip is good news for buyers; rates are easing after last year's highs, giving a bit more breathing room. Even a small drop can translate to thousands in savings over the life of a loan, especially for those who shop around and compare offers.
The Mortgage Bankers Association reported that the national median mortgage payment increased slightly in April to $2,186, up from $2,173 the month prior. Despite that, affordability has improved year over year thanks to rising wages and a moderation in home price growth.
In this story, we'll break down the top mortgage lenders and how buyers can qualify for the lowest rates available.
Forbes Advisor tracks daily mortgage rate updates to help you compare lenders based on where you're located. Rates change often, based on market trends, lender policies, and your financial profile.
Here are some of the best mortgage lenders according to a Forbes Advisor analysis based on a variety of factors, including interest rates, accessibility, customer service, loan options, time to close and more:
Credit isn't the only lever borrowers can pull. From the size of your down payment to the type of loan you choose, there are several strategies that can help you secure a lower mortgage rate and potentially save thousands. Let's walk through them.
Even in a tough market, small moves can make a big difference. Know your options and ask questions, because getting a better rate starts with being informed.
Related: Find competitive mortgage rates near you through our partner Mortgage Resource Center