Thinking about refinancing your mortgage in December 2025? You're not the only one. Interest rates are doing their thing, and lots of homeowners are looking at ways to maybe lower their monthly bills or pull some cash out of their homes. Picking the best mortgage refinance lenders can seem like a lot, but we've checked out some of the top options for rates, customer service, and loan choices to make things a little easier. This list focuses on the best mortgage refinance lenders that really stand out.

Key Takeaways

• CrossCountry Mortgage is a top choice for good overall rates and closing loans pretty fast.
• Rocket Mortgage gets high marks for happy customers and is a big player in conventional loan refinances.
• Bank of America is a solid pick if you're looking to refinance a larger home loan.
• Navy Federal Credit Union is a great option for military members with tailored services.
• New American Funding is noted for offering low rates.

CrossCountry Mortgage

When you're thinking about refinancing your home loan, CrossCountry Mortgage is a name that keeps coming up, and honestly, it's for good reason. They really seem to have a handle on making the whole process pretty straightforward for a lot of people. In our review, they scored really well, which tells you they're doing a lot of things right.

One of the standout features is how fast they can get a loan closed. We're talking about potentially finishing up in as little as 10 days, which is way quicker than the typical 30 to 45 days you usually see. If you're trying to lock in a new rate quickly or just want to get the refinance done without a long wait, this speed is a big deal.

Here's a quick look at what they bring to the table:

• Loan Variety: They offer a pretty broad selection of refinance choices. This includes standard rate and term refinances, FHA, VA, and USDA loans, as well as cash-out options and even loans for home renovations. They also handle HELOCs.
• Credit Score Flexibility: It's possible to refinance with them even if your credit score isn't perfect. They have loan products that can work for scores as low as 500 in some cases.
• Availability: You can find CrossCountry Mortgage services across all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico.

CrossCountry Mortgage is recognized as the best overall option for refinancing. They manage to combine competitive rates with a wide range of loan products and a notably fast closing time, making them a strong choice for many homeowners looking to adjust their mortgage terms.

Refinancing can be a smart move to potentially lower your monthly payments or access your home's equity. It's worth exploring lenders like CrossCountry Mortgage that offer speed and flexibility.

They don't show sample rates or fee details directly on their website, which is a bit of a drawback if you like to see all the numbers upfront. However, their overall performance and the variety of options they provide make them a solid contender when you're comparing mortgage refinance lenders for December 2025.

Rocket Mortgage

Rocket Mortgage is a name you've probably heard a lot, and they're a solid choice if you're thinking about refinancing your home. They consistently get good marks from customers, which is always a good sign. What really sets them apart is how easy they make the whole process, especially if you're comfortable doing most things online. It feels pretty modern and straightforward.

They handle a bunch of different loan types, so whether you're looking for a standard rate and term refinance, an adjustable-rate mortgage, or need to pull some cash out, they've likely got an option for you. This includes conventional, FHA, VA, and even jumbo loans. For conventional loans, you'll generally need a credit score of at least 620, though FHA and VA loans can sometimes work with scores around 580.

While they aim for a smooth process, it's worth noting that sometimes their closing costs can be a bit higher than what you might find elsewhere. It's always a good idea to look at the total cost, not just the interest rate, when you're comparing lenders.

Rocket Mortgage really focuses on making the mortgage process digital and user-friendly. This can be a big plus if you prefer managing everything from your computer or phone.

Here's a quick rundown of what they offer for refinances:

• Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo, Rate & Term, Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs), Cash-Out.
• Credit Score: Generally 620+ for conventional; FHA/VA can be lower (around 580).
• Availability: They operate in all 50 states, plus Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico.
• Perks: Sometimes offer closing cost discounts for repeat customers.

Bank of America

Bank of America is a pretty big name, and they're definitely a solid option if you're thinking about refinancing your mortgage, especially if you're already a customer. They tend to handle larger loan amounts well, which is a big plus if you have a high-value home. In fact, their average refinance loan amount was quite substantial in 2024, hitting around $815,000. That's something to consider if your home's value is on the higher side.

One of the neat things they offer is their Real Estate Center on their website. You can pop in your address and get a feel for your home's worth by looking at similar properties that have sold nearby. This kind of information is super helpful when you're trying to figure out if refinancing makes sense for you.

Here's a quick rundown of what they generally offer:

• Loan Types: They typically cover conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans.
• Refinance Options: You can usually look into rate-and-term, adjustable-rate, and cash-out refinances.
• Existing Customer Perks: If you bank with them, you might get some discounts on interest rates or fees. It's always worth asking!

It's worth noting that while they don't usually list specific minimum credit scores, their advertised rates are often based on a FICO score of 740 or higher. Also, FHA and VA refinances are generally only available if you already have a mortgage with Bank of America. Still, for many people, particularly those with larger mortgages, Bank of America is a strong contender. You can check out current mortgage rates to see how they compare this week.

Refinancing can be a smart move to lower your monthly payments or tap into your home's equity. It's important to compare offers from different lenders to find the best fit for your financial situation.

They've also been recognized for high customer satisfaction by J.D. Power, which is always a good sign when you're dealing with something as big as a mortgage. If you're looking for a lender that handles larger loan amounts and offers a user-friendly experience, Bank of America is certainly worth a look for refinancing.

Navy Federal Credit Union

If you're part of the military community, Navy Federal Credit Union is definitely worth a look for refinancing your home.

They really specialize in serving members of the armed forces and veterans, which means they're pretty dialed into VA loans. It's a credit union, so you do need to be a member to use their services, but for those who qualify, the perks can be pretty good. They offer a couple of main refinance options: VA loans and conventional loans.

One neat feature they have is the Special Freedom Lock. This lets you lock in your interest rate for a longer period, specifically 60 days. Plus, you can get a couple of rate float downs without any extra charge. This can be a nice safety net if interest rates happen to drop a bit after you've already locked yours in. They do have a 1% origination fee, but it's possible to get that waived if you're okay with a slightly higher interest rate on your loan. Many customers have shared positive experiences, often mentioning how helpful the loan officers were throughout the process, making it a less stressful experience than they expected. You can check out their mortgage services for more details.

Here's a quick rundown of what they offer for refinances:

• VA Loans: Tailored for service members and veterans, often with competitive terms.
• Conventional Loans: Standard mortgage options for those who qualify.
• Special Freedom Lock: Extends your rate lock period to 60 days.
• Rate Float Downs: Allows for adjustments if rates decrease post-lock.

Refinancing with Navy Federal can be a good move for military families because they tailor their products and services to meet specific needs, often simplifying what can be a complicated process.

New American Funding

New American Funding is a lender that often pops up when people are looking to refinance, and for good reason. They tend to have rates that are a bit lower than some of the bigger banks, which can add up to real savings over time. Plus, they're known for being pretty flexible when it comes to credit scores. We've seen them work with scores as low as 500 for certain loan types, which is a big help if your credit isn't perfect.

One of the things that really stands out about New American Funding is how fast they can close on a loan. Seriously, they can sometimes get you from application to closing in as little as 10 days. That's way faster than the average, so if you're in a hurry or just want to get things sorted quickly, they're definitely worth a look.

Here's a quick rundown of what they offer for refinances:

• Rate and Term Refinances: This is the standard type, where you swap your current loan for a new one with potentially better terms.
• Cash-Out Refinances: If you need to tap into your home's equity, this option lets you borrow more than you owe and get the difference in cash.
• Streamline Refinances: They handle these for FHA and VA loans, which usually means less paperwork and a quicker process.
• Interest-Only Options: For those looking to lower their monthly payments, they offer terms where you only pay the interest for a set period.
• 40-Year Terms: This longer loan term can also help reduce your monthly payment, though you'll pay more interest over the life of the loan.

While New American Funding advertises competitive rates and flexible credit requirements, it's always a good idea to check their website for the most current fee structures and loan cost details, as this information isn't always readily available upfront. It's definitely worth getting a quote from them to see how they stack up against other lenders for your specific situation.

They also have options for different loan types, including FHA and VA loans, and can even do renovation loans and HELOCs. It's a good idea to get a quote from them to see how their numbers compare to other lenders for your specific situation.

Pennymac

Pennymac is a lender that often comes up when you're looking into mortgage refinancing, especially if you're working with government-backed loans like FHA or VA. They actually do a good amount of business in FHA refinances, so if that's your situation, they might have a good handle on things.

What's interesting is that Pennymac generally requires a lower credit score to get started, sometimes as low as 620 for conventional loans and even lower for FHA, VA, and USDA loans. This can make them a more accessible option for some homeowners who might not have a stellar credit history.

When it comes to fees, Pennymac has a bit of a mixed bag. They do have a program called the Protector Program that can waive lender fees on a future refinance if rates drop after you've already refinanced with them. That's a pretty neat perk to consider.

Here's a quick look at what they offer:

• Specializes in FHA and VA loan refinances.
• Lower minimum credit score requirements for certain loan types.
• Protector Program to potentially waive future lender fees.
• Available in all 50 states and Washington D.C.

While Pennymac can be a solid choice, especially for government-backed loans, it's always smart to compare their total costs, including fees, with other lenders. Sometimes a slightly higher rate from another place might come with significantly lower fees, making it a better deal overall. Don't just look at the advertised rate; dig into the Loan Estimate to see the full picture.

Veterans United

If you're a service member or a veteran, Veterans United is a name you'll likely come across when looking into mortgage refinancing, especially for VA loans. They really focus on VA loans, and it shows. They handle all the different types of VA refinances, like the Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan (IRRRL) and cash-out options. They even do jumbo loans if you need that.

One of the big pluses here is their customer service. They offer it 24/7, which is super handy, particularly if you're in a different time zone or just have a busy, unpredictable schedule. It's good to know someone's available whenever you need them.

Here's a quick look at what they offer for VA refinances:

• All VA refinance types available: This includes IRRRL, cash-out, and jumbo VA loans.
• 24/7 customer support: Always a nice perk for accessibility.
• High volume VA lender: Their experience with VA loans is extensive.

Their minimum credit score requirement is typically 620. Because they specialize so much in VA loans, they're pretty good at handling the specific paperwork and rules that come with them. This can make the whole process feel a lot less complicated, especially if you're not super familiar with all the ins and outs of government-backed loans.

Refinancing a VA loan through a specialist like Veterans United can simplify things. Their focus means they understand the nuances of these loans, potentially leading to a smoother experience compared to a lender that handles many different loan types.

Their deep knowledge of VA loans makes them a top pick for military members and veterans looking to refinance.

Citibank

Citibank is a pretty big name in the banking world, and they also handle mortgage refinances. You can find them pretty much everywhere, serving all 50 states and Washington D.C. They offer a few different kinds of loans, like conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans, which is good because it means more people can probably use them. When it comes to refinancing, they let you do rate-and-term, adjustable-rate, and cash-out options.

Citibank often gets noticed for having loan costs that are competitive, which is a big plus when you're trying to save money. Some reports even say they've given borrowers loan costs that are lower than the average. Plus, if you're already a Citibank customer, you might get a little something extra, like a discount on closing costs. They even have a special code, 10818, that can give you $500 off. They've also scored really well in customer satisfaction studies, which is always nice to see.

Here's a quick rundown of what they offer:

• Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo
• Refinance Options: Rate-and-term, Adjustable-rate, Cash-out
• Availability: All 50 states and Washington, D.C.
• Customer Satisfaction: Highly rated in studies.

One thing to keep in mind is that their sample rates often mention "excellent credit." This usually means a pretty high credit score, sometimes 800 or above, so it's good to check if you fit that profile. They also sometimes lower their sample rates by using discount points, which means you pay an upfront fee to get a lower interest rate. It's worth looking into the current national average APR for a 30-year fixed refinance, which is around 6.79 percent as of December 5, 2025, to see how their offers compare.

When you're looking at refinancing, it's not just about the advertised rate. You've got to consider all the fees, what kind of credit score they're basing their rates on, and if any discounts apply to your situation. Getting a clear picture of the total cost is key.

Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third Bank is a pretty solid option if you're looking to refinance your mortgage, especially if you live in one of the states they serve. They've been known to offer loan costs that are generally a bit lower than what you might find elsewhere, which can really make a difference over the long haul of your loan. Now, they aren't available everywhere, but where they do operate, they seem to focus on keeping things affordable for homeowners.

Here's a quick rundown of what they offer:

• Loan Types: They handle conventional, FHA, and jumbo loans. When it comes to refinancing, you can explore rate-and-term, adjustable-rate, cash-out, and even VA IRRRL loans.
• Availability: You'll find Fifth Third Bank in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
• Credit Score: Fifth Third doesn't really put out a specific minimum credit score requirement. They tend to look at your entire financial picture, including your credit history, when they evaluate applications.

One neat program they have is the Rate Drop Protector Program. Basically, if mortgage rates happen to go down after you've already refinanced with them, they'll waive lender fees on a future refinance. It's a nice little bit of protection against the market shifting.

When you're shopping around for a refinance, it's super easy to get fixated on just the advertised interest rate. But seriously, don't forget to dig into the total cost of the loan. That includes all the fees involved. Sometimes, a rate that's just a tiny bit higher but comes with lower fees can actually end up being a better overall deal for you.

Wrapping Things Up

So, that's our look at some of the top banks for refinancing your mortgage this December 2025. It's a big decision, for sure, and finding the right fit really depends on what you're looking for. Whether it's a super low rate, a quick closing, or special perks for military members, there are options out there. Remember to compare a few lenders, check out all the nitty-gritty details like fees, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Getting your mortgage sorted can make a real difference in your monthly budget, so taking the time to find the best deal is totally worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best bank for refinancing a mortgage?

There's no single 'best' bank for everyone. The ideal choice depends on what you need. Look for a lender that offers the right loan types for your goals, is open about their rates and costs, and helps you get the best possible terms. It's smart to compare offers from a few different lenders before making a decision.

How does refinancing a mortgage work?

Refinancing means you get a new loan to pay off your old mortgage. The new loan might have a different interest rate, a different length of time to pay it back, or a different monthly payment. You can also get a 'cash-out' refinance, where you borrow more than you owe on your current mortgage and get the extra money as cash. This is similar to applying for your first mortgage.

Is it cheaper to refinance with my current lender?

Not always. While your current lender might offer you a deal, it's not a guarantee it's the best one. You could find better interest rates and loan terms by checking with other lenders. It's a good idea to compare offers from a few different places to make sure you're getting the best deal for your money.

What's the difference between an interest rate and an APR?

The interest rate is just the cost of borrowing money. The APR, or Annual Percentage Rate, is a more complete picture because it includes the interest rate plus other fees and costs associated with the loan. When comparing loans, it's usually best to compare the APRs to see the true cost.

Should I consider discount points when refinancing?

Discount points are something you can pay upfront to lower your interest rate. You might pay for a point to get a lower rate over the life of the loan. Whether it's worth it depends on how long you plan to stay in your home and how much you'll save in the long run compared to the upfront cost.

How do I choose the right mortgage refinance lender?

To pick the best lender, start by applying for a loan with a few different companies. Then, carefully compare their interest rates, fees, and the total cost of the loan (APR). Also, think about customer service and how easy the application process is. Getting quotes from multiple lenders helps you find the best offer.