Both Guild Mortgage and UWM offer a variety of loan products and options for different borrowers. Guild Mortgage stands out with its direct application process and closing guarantee, while UWM is known for its efficient loan processing. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences, such as the desire for a direct application versus working with a broker, and the importance of loan processing speed versus customer service satisfaction.
| Attribute | Guild Mortgage | UWM (United Wholesale Mortgage) |
|---|---|---|
| Interest Rates Offered | Generally competitive, but not listed online. Average 30-year fixed mortgage rate in 2024 was 6.42%. | Not publicly available; contact an affiliated mortgage broker for information. Historically offered rates as low as 1.99% for 30-year fixed mortgages and discounted rates for FHA and VA loans. |
| Loan Origination Fees | Average loan origination fees are $4,113, which is higher than the national average. Some sources state that Guild Mortgage typically doesn't charge an origination fee. In 2023, Guild's average loan costs totaled $8,785, including origination charges not specified on the site. | Fees align with or are below industry standards, but specific fees are not disclosed. Mortgage origination fees generally range from 0.5% to 1% of the loan amount. |
| Range of Loan Products | Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, and renovation loans. Also offers home equity loans and HELOCs. | Conventional, jumbo, FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Also offers refinance options. |
| Minimum Credit Score Requirements | Conventional loans: 620; Jumbo loans: 680; FHA, VA, and USDA loans: 540 | Typically requires a minimum credit score of 620 for most loans. Some loan programs may have higher requirements, such as 660 for jumbo loans. |
| Down Payment Options | 1% Down Payment Advantage, 3-2-1 Home Plus, Zero Down. Down payments can be as low as 3% for conventional loans and 3.5% for FHA loans. VA and USDA loans may not require a down payment. | Various options, including programs with low or no down payment. VA and USDA loans with no down payment, FHA loans with a minimum 3.5% down, and conventional loans with a minimum 3% down. Previously offered a 1% down payment program where UWM contributed an additional 2% (up to $7,000). |
| Online Application Process | Offers an online application process through its MyMortgage portal, where you can upload documents and manage checklists. Excellent online communication and great security. | Must apply through an affiliated mortgage broker. Some brokers may offer online pre-approval or prequalification. UWM provides brokers with the Blink+ platform for credit checks, e-signatures, and asset verification. |
| Customer Service Quality and Responsiveness | Top-rated customer service. J.D. Power ranked Guild Mortgage a bit below average for customer satisfaction in 2024. In the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Mortgage Servicer Satisfaction Study, Guild Mortgage ranked second. | Customer service can be reached at 888-464-2432 during specific hours. Customer reviews are mixed, with some reporting issues with the mobile app, payments, and customer service. |
| Loan Processing Speed | Offers e-closing capabilities and a 17-day closing guarantee. Will pay qualifying customers $500 toward closing costs if delays solely by the company prevent the loan from closing on time in 17 days or more. | Known for efficient loan processing and quick turnaround times, averaging 15 days or less from submission to clear to close. Conventional loans may have a turnaround time of two days or less. |
| Availability of Refinancing Options | Offers refinancing options. In 2021, 47% of the loans Guild Mortgage originated were for rate-and-term refinance loans and cash-out refinances. | Offers both rate-and-term and cash-out refinancing options. |
| Geographic Availability | Available in 49 states, operating in all states except New York. They have over 250 branches nationwide. | Lends mortgages across the U.S. |
| First-Time Homebuyer Programs | 1% Down Payment Advantage, 3-2-1 Home Plus, Complete Rate Program, Gateway to Homeownership Assistance program | Offers several programs for first-time homebuyers, including down payment assistance programs. One program offers a 3% down payment assistance loan up to $15,000. |
| Pre-Approval Process | Offers online prequalification and preapproval, but you'll first need to connect with a loan officer to review your options. Offers the option to use a soft pull strategy during both the pre-qualification and pre-approval phases. | Must contact an affiliated mortgage broker to begin the pre-approval process. Depending on the broker, you may be able to get pre-approved or pre-qualified online. |