Compare loan types
See how common loan programs differ on requirements, costs and who they fit.
Lender types
Mortgage broker vs Bank
A mortgage broker shops your loan across many lenders and guides you personally; a bank offers only its own products through its own staff.
Read the comparison ›CompareMortgage broker vs Online lender
An online lender is fast and convenient for straightforward loans; a mortgage broker adds a human expert who shops many lenders and handles complex scenarios (self-employed income, investors, tight timelines) that automated systems often decline..
Read the comparison ›CompareLocal broker vs Big bank
A local broker combines personal service with access to many lenders; a big bank offers brand familiarity and one-roof convenience.
Read the comparison ›Loan programs
DSCR Loan vs Conventional Investment Loan
Choose DSCR when your tax returns understate income, you want to close in an LLC, or you already own 10 financed properties.
CompareBank Statement Loan vs Conventional Loan
If your tax returns show enough income, conventional is cheaper.
CompareFHA Loan vs Conventional Loan
FHA usually fits credit below ~680 or high DTI; conventional usually fits credit above ~700 because PMI is cheaper and can be removed..
CompareVA Loan vs FHA Loan
If you are VA eligible, VA almost always wins: $0 down and no monthly mortgage insurance..
CompareFix and Flip Loan vs Hard Money Loan
Fix and flip loans fund rehab in draws at better leverage; pure hard money is faster and looser but costs more and funds less of the project..
CompareBridge Loan vs HELOC
A HELOC is cheaper if you already have equity and time; a bridge loan is for speed or properties a bank will not touch..
CompareCash-Out Refinance vs HELOC
Keep a low first-mortgage rate with a HELOC; replace a high one with a cash-out refinance..
CompareDSCR Loan vs Bank Statement Loan
DSCR for rentals that pay for themselves; bank statement for primary homes or when the property’s rent alone falls short..
CompareLender-Paid Compensation vs Borrower-Paid Compensation
Lender-paid keeps cash in your pocket today; borrower-paid saves money if you keep the loan long.
CompareFixed-Rate Mortgage vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
Fixed gives certainty for long holds; an ARM can save money if you expect to sell or refinance before the first adjustment..
CompareDSCR Loans vs Hard Money Loans
DSCR loans are long-term rental financing qualified on property cash flow.
CompareBank Statement Loans vs Conventional Loans
Conventional loans are cheaper when your tax returns show enough income.
CompareFix and Flip Loans vs HELOC for Renovations
A HELOC on your primary home is cheaper for renovations if you have equity and time.
CompareCash-Out Refinance vs HELOC for Investors
Investors with a low existing rate should keep it and add a HELOC for flexibility.
CompareFHA Loan vs Conventional Loan
First-time buyers with credit below 680 or limited savings usually do better with FHA: lower credit bar and 3.5 percent down.
Compare15-Year Mortgage vs 30-Year Mortgage
For investors, the 30-year loan usually wins: lower payments mean better cash flow and better DSCR ratios, which is how rental loans are judged.
CompareBuying a Rental with Cash vs Financing a Rental Property
Cash buys win on speed and negotiating power, and the return is simple: rent minus expenses.
CompareLocal Mortgage Broker vs Rocket Mortgage
Rocket Mortgage offers a polished digital process that works well for straightforward W-2 purchases.
CompareUSDA Loan vs FHA Loan
If the home is in a USDA-eligible area and your income qualifies, USDA usually costs less: no down payment and lower mortgage insurance.
CompareHELOC vs Home Equity Loan
Choose a HELOC for flexible, ongoing needs; choose a home equity loan for a one-time expense when you want a fixed payment..
CompareDSCR Loan vs Hard Money Loan
Hard money is for speed and distressed properties over months; DSCR is long-term financing for rentals that are ready to lease..
Compare15-Year Mortgage vs 30-Year Mortgage
A 15-year loan saves substantial interest and builds equity fast; a 30-year loan keeps the payment lower and flexible..
CompareSecond Home Loan vs Investment Property Loan
If you will use the home yourself part of the year and not rent it full time, a second home loan costs less.
CompareWarrantable Condo vs Non-Warrantable Condo
Warrantable condos qualify for conventional, FHA or VA financing with low down payments; non-warrantable condos need specialty loans with 20–25% down..