If you want to compare mortgage offers quickly without the hassle of applying to multiple lenders, LendingTree can help. It’s not a mortgage lender—it’s a marketplace that connects you with banks and lenders that want your business. Just fill out one form, and you could get matched with several loan offers within minutes.
Want to make sure you’re getting the best rate?
LendingTree gives you a side-by-side view of interest rates, loan terms, and lender details so you can pick the best deal for your situation. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or refinancing an existing loan, it’s one of the fastest ways to see what’s out there—without hurting your credit.
Pros & Cons of LendingTree Mortgage
LendingTree makes it easy to compare loan offers, but it’s not the right fit for everyone. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons.
Pros
- Compares offers from multiple lenders with one application – Saves time and helps you find the best deal without filling out multiple forms.
- Offers many loan types, including FHA, VA, and jumbo – Good for first-time buyers, military families, and borrowers looking at higher-priced homes.
- No fees to use the service – LendingTree doesn’t charge you to get matched with lenders.
- Fast prequalification process – You can start seeing offers within minutes of submitting your information.
Cons
- Expect a lot of follow-up emails and calls – Multiple lenders may contact you after you submit your application.
- LendingTree is not the actual lender – You’ll still need to choose and work directly with one of the matched lenders, and their service quality can vary.
How LendingTree Works
LendingTree is a mortgage marketplace. It doesn’t fund loans directly—instead, it connects you with lenders that want to work with borrowers like you.
You start by filling out a quick form with basic details like your income, estimated credit score, and the kind of loan you’re looking for. LendingTree uses that information to match you with lenders from its network.
Once matched, you’ll receive loan offers or prequalification letters from multiple lenders. You can compare interest rates, loan terms, fees, and requirements side by side. From there, you choose the lender that best fits your needs and continue the process directly with them.
Most users get matched with several lenders within a few minutes. Just be prepared—those lenders may call, email, or text you to follow up. If you don’t want that on your primary number, consider using a secondary line.
LendingTree Mortgage Application Requirements
LendingTree works with lenders that have different approval standards, but there are some common guidelines most of them follow.
- Credit Score – Most lenders in the network look for a minimum credit score of 620 to 640. If you’re applying for an FHA loan, you may be eligible with a score as low as 500, but you’ll need a larger down payment.
- Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) – Your DTI compares your monthly debt payments to your gross income. Most lenders cap this at 43% to 45%, and that includes your expected mortgage payment.
- Down Payment and Closing Costs – This depends on the type of loan. FHA loans only require 3.5% down if your credit score is 580 or higher. On a $300,000 home, that’s $10,500. Closing costs often add another 2% to 5% of the home price.
- Employment History – Two years of consistent employment is preferred, but not always required. Some lenders may accept less if you have strong income and low debt.
Types of Mortgage Loans Available Through LendingTree
LendingTree gives you access to several types of home loans, so you can compare options based on your credit score, income, and down payment ability.
Conventional Loans
These are standard home loans not backed by the government. Most require at least a 620 credit score and a down payment of 3% to 20%. They work best for borrowers with stable income and solid credit.
Jumbo Loans
If you’re buying a home that exceeds the conforming loan limit—usually around $750,000 depending on where you live—you’ll need a jumbo loan. These loans often require higher credit scores, larger down payments, and extra documentation.
FHA Loans
FHA loans are backed by the Federal Housing Administration and are a good option for borrowers with low to moderate income. You can qualify with a credit score as low as 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 if you can put down 10%.
VA Loans
VA loans are for active-duty military members, veterans, and some surviving spouses. They offer 0% down, no mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates. Most lenders require a credit score of at least 620.
Portfolio Loans
These loans are held by the lender instead of being sold to investors. That gives the lender more flexibility in approving borrowers who might not qualify for traditional loans. They’re often used by self-employed buyers or those with non-traditional assets.
Subprime Loans
Subprime loans are for borrowers with low credit scores or unstable income. They typically come with higher interest rates and stricter terms. These loans are less common today due to lending regulations, but some lenders in LendingTree’s network may still offer them in limited cases.
Home Equity Loans, HELOCs, and Refinance Options
LendingTree isn’t just for new home purchases. You can also use it to compare other loan options tied to your home.
- Home Equity Loans – A home equity loan gives you a lump sum based on the equity you’ve built in your home. It’s usually a fixed-rate loan with a set repayment term.
- Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs) – A HELOC works more like a credit card. You get access to a credit line you can draw from as needed, and you only pay interest on what you borrow. Most have variable interest rates.
- Cash-Out Refinances – A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a new one for more than you owe. The difference comes to you as cash. This option can make sense if you want to consolidate debt, make home improvements, or cover large expenses.
These types of loans are best when you already own a home and want to leverage its value for other financial goals.
LendingTree Mortgage Rates & Fees
LendingTree doesn’t set mortgage rates. The rates you’ll see depend on the lender you choose, your credit score, the loan amount, and the loan type.
When you apply through LendingTree, you’ll see real-time offers from lenders who match your profile. Each lender sets its own rate and fees, so it’s important to compare them side by side.
LendingTree does not charge you to use its service. There are no application fees, and you won’t be asked to pay anything up front. If a lender tries to collect a fee before your loan closes, that’s a red flag—it’s likely a scam.
LendingTree Mortgage Process Step-by-Step
Using LendingTree is straightforward, and the entire process can move quickly if you’re ready with your financial details. Here’s how it works:
- Submit your application online – Fill out a short form with information about your income, estimated credit score, location, and loan type.
- Compare offers – LendingTree shows you offers from multiple lenders that match your profile. You’ll see estimated rates, fees, and terms.
- Choose a lender and get preapproved – Once you select a lender, you’ll work directly with them to complete the preapproval process.
- Make an offer on a home – When you’re preapproved, you can make a purchase offer with more confidence.
- Appraisal, inspection, and closing – If the home passes inspection and meets appraisal requirements, you move on to closing.
It’s important to note that LendingTree steps out of the process once you choose a lender. After that, all communication and paperwork will be handled by the lender you select.
What Makes LendingTree Different
LendingTree simplifies the loan comparison process and offers a few key advantages that set it apart from applying directly through a bank.
- Marketplace model saves time – You only need to apply once to see multiple loan offers. No need to fill out the same form over and over.
- Transparent comparisons – You can view rates, terms, and lender information side-by-side to help make a confident decision.
- Fast loan matches – Most borrowers receive several offers within minutes of applying.
- Access to other types of loans – LendingTree also helps you compare personal loans, auto loans, business loans, and more.
If you’re shopping around for the best deal, LendingTree cuts down the legwork.
What Real Users Say: LendingTree Mortgage Reviews
LendingTree holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, which reflects strong customer service and a low complaint volume relative to its size.
Many users appreciate how quickly they receive loan offers and how easy the platform is to use. Common highlights in reviews include:
- Simple application process
- Fast matches with multiple lenders
- Competitive offers from both big banks and regional lenders
However, some users report a spike in emails and phone calls after applying. Since your information is shared with several lenders, expect to hear from them—especially in the first few days. Others note that not all lenders offer the same level of service, so it’s worth doing a little extra research before committing.
Is LendingTree a good fit for you?
LendingTree works well for borrowers who want speed, convenience, and options. You might want to consider using LendingTree if:
- You want to compare offers quickly without applying to each lender one by one
- You’re okay with getting follow-up messages from multiple lenders
- You’re looking for government-backed loans like FHA or VA, or large loan amounts through jumbo lenders
It may not be the best fit if you already have a trusted lender in mind or don’t want to deal with follow-up calls.
Bottom Line
LendingTree makes shopping for a mortgage easier by giving you access to multiple lenders with a single application. It’s fast, free, and gives you more control over the loan comparison process. While the extra phone calls can be annoying, they usually die down within a few days.
If you’re shopping for a mortgage and want to compare offers without wasting time, LendingTree is one of the easiest places to start.