Florida’s real estate market continues to thrive, attracting homebuyers with its sunny climate, no state income tax and diverse housing options. Whether you are purchasing a beachfront condo, a suburban family home, or an investment property, securing the right mortgage lender is crucial. With competitive interest rates, flexible loan programs and digital lending solutions, Florida’s top mortgage lenders make home financing easier than ever.
The state’s mortgage industry is highly competitive, featuring local banks, credit unions and specialized lenders offering conventional, FHA, VA and jumbo loans. First time buyers, retirees and investors all have unique needs and choosing the right lender can save thousands over the life of a loan. This guide explores the top 5 mortgage lenders in Florida, helping you make an informed decision.
Why Choosing the Right Mortgage Lender Matters
Selecting the best mortgage lender in Florida impacts your:
- Interest Rates & Fees – Even a 0.25% rate difference can save or cost you tens of thousands over 30 years.
- Loan Options – Some lenders specialize in VA loans, jumbo mortgages or first time buyer programs.
- Customer Service – A responsive lender ensures a smooth closing process.
- Closing Speed – Competitive lenders close in 30 days or less, crucial in Florida’s fast moving market.
- Online Experience – Digital lenders offer faster approvals and e-signing for convenience.
Florida’s best mortgage providers combine low rates, flexible terms and excellent service—let’s explore the top 5.
Top 5 Mortgage Lenders Based in Florida
We’ve ranked these lenders based on loan options, customer satisfaction, rates and local expertise.
- Florida Credit Union Mortgage Services
- Seaside National Bank & Trust
- CenterState Bank Mortgage
- FBC Mortgage
- AmeriFirst Financial
Each excels in different areas—whether you need a VA loan, low down payment option, or quick pre-approval, one of these lenders will fit your needs.
1) Florida Credit Union Mortgage Services
Florida Credit Union is a member-owned lender offering competitive rates, low fees and personalized service. They specialize in first time homebuyer programs, FHA loans and refinancing.
Contact Details
- Website: www.floridacu.com/mortgage
- HQ Location: Gainesville, FL
- Founded: 1954
- Loan Officers: 150+
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Best Credit Union Mortgage Lender (2023) – NerdWallet
🏆 Top 5 First Time Home buyer Lender in Florida – Bankrate
Key Features
✔ Low Down Payment Options (3% conventional, FHA 3.5%)
✔ No PMI on Some Loans (Saving borrowers $$$)
✔ Local Underwriting – Faster approvals than big banks
✔ First Time Buyer Grants – Up to $10K in down payment assistance
✔ Rate Match Guarantee – They will beat any competitor’s written offer
Customer Reviews
⭐ 4.8/5 (Trustpilot) – “FCU made my first home purchase stress-free!” – Read more
⭐ 4.7/5 (Google Reviews) – “Lowest rate I found after shopping 5 lenders.” – See review
2) Seaside National Bank & Trust
A premier Florida based bank, Seaside National specializes in jumbo loans, luxury properties and investor financing. Their private banking services cater to high net worth buyers.
Contact Details
- Website: www.seasidebank.com/mortgage
- HQ Location: Orlando, FL
- Founded: 2006
- Loan Officers: 90+
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Best Private Client Mortgage Services (2024) – Forbes
🏆 Top Jumbo Loan Lender in Florida – Mortgage Professional America
Key Features
✔ Jumbo Loans Up to $5M – No max loan limits for qualified buyers
✔ Interest-Only Mortgages – Popular with investors
✔ Expanded Debt-to-Income Ratios – Easier qualification
✔ Same-Day Pre-Approvals – Fast-tracked for competitive markets
✔ Concierge Loan Servicing – Dedicated advisor throughout the process
Customer Reviews
⭐ 4.9/5 (Zillow Lender Reviews) – “Closed my $2M Miami condo loan in 21 days!” – Read review
⭐ 4.6/5 (BBB) – “Seaside’s investor loan team is unmatched.” – See BBB profile
3) CenterState Bank Mortgage
CenterState Bank (now part of SouthState Bank) is a top rated regional lender specializing in VA loans, FHA mortgages and affordable housing programs. They excel in serving military families, retirees and moderate income buyers across Florida.
Contact Details
- Website: www.southstatebank.com/mortgage
- HQ Location: Winter Haven, FL
- Founded: 2002 (merged with SouthState in 2020)
- Loan Officers: 200+ across Florida
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Best VA Loan Lender in Florida (2023) – Military.com
🏆 Top Community Bank for Affordable Housing – Florida Bankers Association
Key Features
✔ $0 Down VA Loans – Specialized team for military/veteran borrowers
✔ FHA Loans with 580 Credit Score – More flexible than conventional
✔ Down Payment Assistance Programs – State/local grants up to $15K
✔ Local Underwriting Teams – Faster approvals than national banks
✔ Construction to Perm Loans – For custom home builds
✔ Reverse Mortgages – Serving Florida’s senior population
Customer Reviews
⭐ 4.7/5 (LendingTree) – “As a veteran, their VA loan process was seamless.” – Read review
⭐ 4.5/5 (Google Reviews) – “Approved my FHA loan when others said no.” – See review
4) FBC Mortgage
FBC Mortgage is an Orlando-based powerhouse known for lightning fast closings (often in 15 days) and innovative digital mortgage technology. They dominate in non-QM loans, self employed borrowers and investment properties.
Contact Details
- Website: www.fbcmortgage.com
- HQ Location: Orlando, FL
- Founded: 2006
- Loan Officers: 300+ (all Florida-based)
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Fastest Mortgage Closer in Florida (2024) – Scotsman Guide
🏆 Top Non-QM Lender – National Mortgage News
Key Features
✔ 15-Day Closings – Proprietary digital underwriting system
✔ Bank Statement Loans – For self employed (no tax returns needed)
✔ DSCR Rental Loans – No personal income verification for investors
✔ 97% LTV Investment Properties – Rare for rental homes
✔ E-Close Platform – Full online application and document upload
✔ Spanish-Language Team – Serving Florida’s Hispanic community
Customer Reviews
⭐ 4.9/5 (Zillow) – “Closed my investment property in 12 days!” – Read review
⭐ 4.8/5 (Trustpilot) – “Only lender that understood my freelance income.” – See review
5) AmeriFirst Financial
AmeriFirst Financial stands out for creative financing solutions, particularly for self employed, gig workers and credit challenged buyers. Their “Common Sense Underwriting” looks beyond traditional metrics.
Contact Details
- Website: www.amerifirst.us
- HQ Location: Kissimmee, FL
- Founded: 1995
- Loan Officers: 175+
Awards & Recognition
🏆 Most Innovative Lender (2023) – Mortgage Bankers Association
🏆 Best for Self Employed Borrowers – NerdWallet
Key Features
✔ 12-Month Bank Statement Loans – Alternative income verification
✔ Credit Scores as Low as 550 – With compensating factors
✔ Debt Consolidation Mortgages – Roll high interest debt into home loan
✔ Fix and Flip Financing – Short term loans for investors
✔ Rent to Own Programs – Pathway to homeownership
✔ Florida Hometown Heroes Discount – 0.5% rate reduction for essential workers
Customer Reviews
⭐ 4.6/5 (LendingTree) – “Approved me with 2-year-old bankruptcy!” – Read review
⭐ 4.7/5 (Google) – “Only lender that accepted my freelance income.” – See review
How to Choose the Best Florida Mortgage Lender
🔹 Compare Rates & Fees – Get Loan Estimates from at least 3 lenders.
🔹 Check Lender Specializations – VA, jumbo or first time buyer programs.
🔹 Read Reviews – Look for consistent customer service praise.
🔹 Ask About Turnaround Time – Some close in 2 weeks, others take 45 days.
🔹 Local vs. National? – Local lenders often have better market knowledge.
Specialized Loan Options Across Lenders
| Lender | Best Unique Program | Who It’s For |
| Florida CU | First Time Buyer Grant | Teachers/nurses with <$80K income |
| Seaside | Interest Only Jumbo | High net worth investors |
| CenterState | VA Renovation Loan | Veterans buying fixer uppers |
| FBC | 1-Day Underwriting | Investors needing quick closes |
| AmeriFirst | Bank Statement Loan | Self employed with irregular income |
Pro Tips for Florida Homebuyers
🔹 Watch for Origination Fees – Some Florida lenders charge 1-2% of loan amount
🔹 Ask About Hurricane Insurance – Required in coastal counties (impacts payment)
🔹 Consider ARM Loans – Popular in high price markets (Miami, Naples)
🔹 Check for Local Programs – Many counties offer down payment help
Did You Know? Florida’s average mortgage rate is typically 0.125% lower than national averages due to competitive lender markets!
Final Recommendation
For most Florida buyers, we recommend starting with:
- Florida Credit Union if you are a first time buyer
- FBC Mortgage if speed is critical
- AmeriFirst if you have non-traditional income
Remember: Your perfect lender depends on your financial situation, timeline and property type. Get pre approved with at least two from this list to compare real offers!
