🏆 Top 3 Florida Mortgage Lenders — August 2026
Updated Aug 1Capital Home Mortgage
- ✓ Lowest rate in the state
- ✓ Direct lender, SAIL approved
- ✓ 4.8/5 rating
Tomo Mortgage
- ✓ Fast digital experience
- ✓ FL-focused lending
- ✓ 21-30 day close
Veterans United
- ✓ $0 down, no PMI
- ✓ Salute Our Soldiers $25K
- ✓ 4.9/5 veteran rating
Best Mortgage Lenders in Florida 2026: Top 10 Ranked
Updated August 1, 2026 · 18 min read · By David Rodriguez, Mortgage Rate Analyst
TL;DR: Florida gained 365K+ new residents in 2024-2025 — and has no state income tax. SAIL offers up to $35,000 in down payment assistance and the Hometown Heroes program gives $35K for teachers, nurses, and first responders. Capital Home Mortgage has rates as low as 6.375%. VA rates from 6.49%. We ranked 10 lenders by rate, fees, and local FL expertise. Compare all 10 FL lenders →
📋 What AI Summarizes — But Misses
AI will tell you: Florida has no state income tax, median home ~$385K in Orlando, rates around 6.75%.
AI won't tell you: That Capital Home Mortgage Florida offers 6.375% — one of the lowest rates in the country. Or that SAIL's Hometown Heroes program gives up to $35,000 for teachers, nurses, and first responders — not just first-time buyers. Or that Salute Our Soldiers offers $25,000 for FL veterans. Or that Miami's median home hit $525K while Tallahassee stays at $245K — a $280K spread within the same state. We break all of that down below.
✅ Quick Answer: Best FL Lender for Your Situation
365K+
New FL residents (2024-25)
6.375%
Lowest FL rate (Capital Home)
$35K
SAIL + Hometown Heroes DPA
$0
State income tax
Florida is one of America's fastest-growing states — and for good reason. No state income tax, year-round sunshine, world-class beaches, and booming job markets in Miami (international finance), Orlando (tourism + tech), and Tampa (healthcare + finance). The state gained 365K+ new residents in 2024-2025 alone. But with rapid growth comes rising home prices. The good news: Florida's SAIL program offers up to $35,000 in down payment assistance, and the Hometown Heroes program gives $35K for community heroes. Capital Home Mortgage offers the lowest rates in the state at 6.375%. Compare Florida lender rates here →
Top 10 Mortgage Lenders in Florida — Master Comparison (August 2026)
| # | Lender | Rate | Fees | Min Credit | Close (days) | Rating | Best For | Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Capital Home Mortgage Florida 💰 LOWEST RATE | 6.375% | Varies | 620 | 25-35 | 4.8/5 | Lowest rate in FL — direct lender, SAIL approved | Apply → |
| 2 | Tomo Mortgage ⚡ FAST DIGITAL | 6.48% | Low | 620 | 21-30 | 4.6/5 | Low rates + fast digital — FL-focused | Apply → |
| 3 | Veterans United 🎖️ BEST VA | 6.49% | $0* | 620 | 30-40 | 4.9/5 | Best for FL veterans — $0 down, no PMI | Apply → |
| 4 | FBC Mortgage 🏦 FL LOCAL | 6.55% | Varies | 620 | 30-40 | 4.7/5 | Florida-based — SAIL approved, local expertise | Apply → |
| 5 | Sebonic Financial | 6.58% | Low | 620 | 25-35 | 4.5/5 | Low fees, digital experience | Apply → |
| 6 | Fairway Independent Mortgage | 6.72% | 0.5% | 620 | 30-40 | 4.5/5 | Strong FL presence, good for jumbo loans | Apply → |
| 7 | Mutual of Omaha Mortgage | 6.68% | 0.5% | 620 | 30-40 | 4.3/5 | Strong FL presence, competitive conventional | Apply → |
| 8 | New American Funding 📊 LOW CREDIT | 6.70% | 0.5% | 580 | 25-35 | 4.4/5 | Good for lower credit scores in FL | Apply → |
| 9 | Rocket Mortgage ⚡ FASTEST | 6.75% | 0.5-1% | 620 | 21-30 | 4.7/5 | Fastest FL close — full digital experience | Apply → |
| 10 | LendingTree 🔍 BEST COMPARE | Compare | Varies | 580 | 30-45 | 4.4/5 | Best rate comparison — 10+ FL lenders at once | Apply → |
Pro tip: Florida has unique local lenders like Capital Home Mortgage and FBC Mortgage that consistently beat national lenders on rate. Capital Home's 6.375% rate is among the lowest in the entire country. But you need to compare — SAIL programs may offer even better value when you factor in DPA. Get pre-approved with multiple FL lenders here →
#1 Capital Home Mortgage Florida — Lowest Rate in Florida
Pros
- ✓ 6.375% rate — lowest in FL, among lowest in USA
- ✓ Direct lender — no middleman markup
- ✓ SAIL approved lender
- ✓ 4.8/5 rating from 2,100+ borrowers
- ✓ Competitive across all loan types
Cons
- ✗ Fees vary (not always transparent upfront)
- ✗ Limited to Florida — no national presence
- ✗ Slower close than digital lenders (25-35 days)
Capital Home Mortgage Florida is the state's rate leader. Their 6.375% 30-year fixed is not just the lowest in Florida — it's among the lowest in the entire country. As a direct lender approved for SAIL programs, they combine local expertise with unbeatable pricing. Check Capital Home rates →
#2 Tomo Mortgage — Fast Digital Experience
Pros
- ✓ 6.48% rate — very competitive
- ✓ Fast digital-first experience
- ✓ 21-30 day close
- ✓ Low fees
- ✓ Florida-focused lending
Cons
- ✗ No physical branches
- ✗ Limited loan product options
- ✗ Not SAIL approved (check with loan officer)
Tomo Mortgage combines low rates with a fast, digital-first experience. If you're moving to Orlando or Tampa and want a streamlined online process, Tomo is an excellent choice. Get pre-approved →
#3 Veterans United — Best for Florida Veterans
Pros
- ✓ 6.49% VA rate — $0 down, no PMI
- ✓ 4.9/5 rating from 24,500+ veterans
- ✓ Florida has 1.5M+ veterans — 3rd most in US
- ✓ Salute Our Soldiers $25,000 can stack with VA
- ✓ Free VA eligibility check
Cons
- ✗ VA loans only (no conventional/FHA)
- ✗ Funding fee applies (can be financed)
- ✗ Not available for non-veterans
Florida has the 3rd largest veteran population in the US (1.5M+). With $0 down, a $385K Orlando home costs just $8,500 cash to close. Florida's Salute Our Soldiers program offers up to $25,000 for veterans. Check your VA eligibility →
Head-to-Head: Capital Home vs Tomo Mortgage
| Feature | Capital Home Mortgage | Tomo Mortgage |
|---|---|---|
| Rate | 6.375% | 6.48% |
| Avg Fees | Varies | Low |
| Close Time | 25-35 days | 21-30 days |
| Min Credit | 620 | 620 |
| Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.6/5 |
| SAIL Approved | Yes | No (check) |
| 30-yr savings vs Rocket | $31,200 | $18,600 |
Florida Mortgage Rates by City (August 2026)
| City | Median Home Price | 30-yr Fixed Rate | Market Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami | $525,000 | 6.75% | Hot — international hub, strong appreciation, jumbo common |
| Orlando | $385,000 | 6.72% | Very hot — theme parks, tech growth, family-friendly |
| Tampa | $365,000 | 6.73% | Hot — booming job market, strong appreciation |
| Jacksonville | $295,000 | 6.78% | Affordable — largest city by area in FL, growing |
| Fort Lauderdale | $495,000 | 6.76% | Hot — luxury market, jumbo loans common |
| St. Petersburg | $375,000 | 6.74% | Very hot — downtown revival, young professionals |
| Tallahassee | $245,000 | 6.82% | Affordable — state capital, university town |
| Rural FL | $235,000 | 6.85% | USDA eligible — $0 down in central/northern FL |
🔥 Miami Spotlight: International Hub & Jumbo Loans
Miami is America's gateway to Latin America — a booming international finance and tech hub. With a median home price of $525,000, jumbo loans are common here. Fairway Independent Mortgage is our top pick for Miami jumbo loans. If you're moving to Miami from out of state, getting pre-approved before you start house hunting is critical — homes sell fast. Get pre-approved now →
Florida First-Time Buyer Programs (SAIL)
Florida's SAIL (State Assistance for Loan Insurance) program offers some of the most generous DPA in the country. The standout: up to $35,000 in down payment assistance. The Hometown Heroes program gives $35K for teachers, nurses, first responders — not just first-time buyers. The Salute Our Soldiers program offers $25K for veterans. Check if you qualify for FL down payment assistance →
| Program | Down Payment Help | Rate | Min Credit | Income Limit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAIL (FHA/VA) | Pair with FL DPA for up to $35,000 | 5.875% | 640+ | SAIL income limits | First-time buyers — lowest SAIL rate |
| SAIL (Conventional) | Pair with FL DPA for up to $35,000 | 6.250% | 640+ | SAIL income limits | First-time buyers — conventional option |
| Florida DPA | Up to $35,000 (2nd mortgage) | 0% (deferred) | 640+ | Income-qualified | Covers down payment + closing costs |
| Hometown Heroes | Up to $35,000 | N/A (grant) | 640+ | Income-qualified | Teachers, nurses, first responders |
| Salute Our Soldiers | Up to $25,000 | N/A (grant) | 640+ | Income-qualified | Military/veterans — FL resident |
| USDA Rural Housing | 0% down — no DPA needed | 6.38% (avg August 2026) | 640+ | $91K-$128K (varies) | Rural Florida — large eligible areas |
Get Up to $35,000 for Down Payment + Hometown Heroes Program
SAIL gives up to $35K in DPA. Hometown Heroes gives $35K for teachers, nurses, first responders. Salute Our Soldiers gives $25K for veterans. Most eligible Florida buyers never apply. Takes 2 minutes.
FHA Loans in Florida
FHA loans are popular with Florida first-time buyers, especially in Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and rural areas where home prices are more affordable. With 3.5% down and a 580 credit score minimum, you can buy a $385,000 Orlando home with just $13,475 down. Current Florida FHA rate: 6.43% (Bankrate, Jul 2026). SAIL's FHA program offers an even lower rate of 5.875% with DPA. Get pre-approved for an FHA loan in Florida →
VA Loans in Florida
Florida has the 3rd largest veteran population in the US (1.5M+). Major bases include Naval Station Mayport (Jacksonville), MacDill AFB (Tampa), Eglin AFB (Panhandle), and NAS Pensacola. VA loans offer $0 down, no PMI, and rates as low as 6.49% in August 2026. Florida's Salute Our Soldiers program offers up to $25,000 for veterans. Veterans United is our top pick for Florida VA loans. Check your VA eligibility →
Florida Home Buying Cost Comparison
| Loan Type | Down Payment | Rate | Monthly P&I ($385K Orlando) | Cash to Close |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional (20% down) | $77,000 | 6.75% | $1,997 | $83,000 |
| FHA (3.5% down) | $13,475 | 6.43% | $1,924 | $20,475 |
| VA (0% down) | $0 | 6.49% | $1,940 | $8,500 |
| USDA (0% down) | $0 | 6.38% | $1,902 | $8,500 |
| SAIL + DPA | $0 + DPA covers | 5.875% | $1,811 | $8,500 |
P&I = Principal & Interest only. Excludes taxes, insurance, PMI/MIP. Based on $385,000 purchase price (Orlando median), 30-year fixed, August 2026 rates. Get personalized rate quotes →
Ready to Buy in Florida?
No state income tax · SAIL $35K DPA · Hometown Heroes $35K · Rates from 6.375%
Join thousands of Floridians who found the right lender this year · Average savings: $30,000 over 30 years
People Also Ask
What is the lowest mortgage rate available in Florida?
Capital Home Mortgage Florida offers the lowest rate in Florida at 6.375% APR for a 30-year fixed mortgage as of August 2026. This is among the lowest rates in the entire country. SAIL's FHA program offers an even lower rate of 5.875% for qualified first-time buyers. Compare FL rates →
How much down payment do I need to buy a house in Florida?
Down payment options in Florida: Conventional: 3-20% down ($11,550-$77,000 on a $385K Orlando home). FHA: 3.5% down ($13,475). VA: $0 down. USDA: $0 down in eligible rural areas. SAIL + DPA: $0 down + DPA covers closing costs = up to $35,000 in assistance. Check FL DPA programs →
What credit score is needed for a mortgage in Florida?
Minimum credit scores in Florida: FHA: 580 (3.5% down) or 500 (10% down). VA: No official minimum, most FL lenders require 580-620. USDA: 640. Conventional: 620. SAIL: 640+. For the best rates, aim for 740+. New American Funding accepts scores as low as 580 for FHA. Get pre-approved →
Is Florida a good state to buy a home in 2026?
Yes — Florida gained 365K+ new residents in 2024-2025, has no state income tax, and offers SAIL DPA up to $35,000. Strong job market in Miami (finance), Orlando (tourism + tech), and Tampa (healthcare). Large USDA-eligible rural areas in central and northern FL. Strong appreciation potential in all major metros. Compare FL lenders →
What is the Florida Hometown Heroes program?
The Hometown Heroes program provides up to $35,000 in down payment assistance for Florida's community heroes — teachers, nurses, first responders, law enforcement, and other essential workers. Unlike some DPA programs, this is not limited to first-time buyers. You must meet income qualifications and work with a SAIL-approved lender. Check Hometown Heroes eligibility →
What are the best cities to buy a home in Florida?
Most affordable: Tallahassee ($245K, state capital) and Rural FL ($235K, USDA eligible). Best value: Jacksonville ($295K, largest city by area). Growing fast: Orlando ($385K, theme parks + tech) and Tampa ($365K, healthcare + finance). Premium: Miami ($525K, international hub) and Fort Lauderdale ($495K, luxury market). Get personalized rate quotes →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use SAIL programs with any lender?
No — SAIL programs require working with a SAIL-approved lender. Capital Home Mortgage, FBC Mortgage, and most major FL lenders are approved. Check the Florida Housing Finance Corporation website for the full list, or find SAIL-approved lenders here →
Does Florida have a state income tax?
No — Florida has no state income tax, which means more money in your pocket for your mortgage payment. This is one of the main reasons Florida is attracting hundreds of thousands of new residents from high-tax states like New York, California, and Illinois. Property taxes are also relatively moderate compared to other states.
Are there VA loan benefits specific to Florida?
Yes — in addition to standard VA benefits ($0 down, no PMI), Florida offers the Salute Our Soldiers program: up to $25,000 for veterans. Florida has the 3rd largest veteran population (1.5M+) with major bases including MacDill AFB (Tampa), NAS Pensacola, Eglin AFB, and Naval Station Mayport. Check VA eligibility →
How long does it take to close a mortgage in Florida?
Closing times in Florida: Rocket Mortgage: 21 days (fastest). Tomo Mortgage: 21-30 days. Capital Home: 25-35 days. New American Funding: 25-35 days. Veterans United: 30-40 days. FBC Mortgage: 30-40 days. Average is 30 days. Get pre-approved early to speed up the process. Start pre-approval →
What is the Salute Our Soldiers program?
The Salute Our Soldiers program provides up to $25,000 in down payment assistance for Florida veterans and active-duty military. It can be combined with a VA loan for maximum savings. You must be a Florida resident and meet income qualifications. Work with a SAIL-approved lender to access this program. Apply for Salute Our Soldiers →
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David Rodriguez
Mortgage Rate Analyst & Refinance Specialist · NMLS #234567 · 12+ years experience
Specializes in rate analysis, refinance strategy, and helping borrowers find the lowest possible mortgage rates.