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Mortgage providers: SoFi Home Loans vs. Better Mortgage

Quick Verdict

Both SoFi Home Loans and Better Mortgage offer competitive mortgage options with online application processes. SoFi stands out with its On-Time Close Guarantee and potential origination fee discount for members. Better Mortgage distinguishes itself with a potentially faster pre-approval process and 24/7 AI customer support. The best choice depends on individual needs and priorities, such as the importance of customer service availability, potential closing delays, and membership status with SoFi.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeSoFi Home LoansBetter Mortgage
Interest Rates (APR)Competitive rates varying by loan term, credit score, and other factors. Examples (as of July 2025): 10-year fixed: 6.149% APR, 15-year fixed: 5.969% APR, 20-year fixed: 6.508% APR, 30-year fixed: 6.785% APRGenerally in line with Bankrate's national averages. Displayed rates assume a credit score of 760 and a 20% down payment.
Loan Types OfferedConventional loans (fixed-rate and adjustable-rate), Jumbo loans, FHA loans, VA loans, Refinancing (rate-and-term, cash-out), Home Equity Loans, HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)Conventional, FHA, VA, fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, refinance, investment property, and jumbo loans.
Minimum Credit Score RequirementConventional loans: 620, FHA loans: 600, VA loans: 600, Cash-out refinance: 580Conventional loans: 620; FHA loans: 580; VA loans: 620 (some sources claim no minimum); Jumbo loans: 700.
Down Payment RequirementsConventional loans: 3%-5% (3% for first-time homebuyers), FHA loans: 3.5%, VA loans: 0%, Jumbo loans: 10%Conventional loans: Typically 3% minimum; FHA loans: 3.5% minimum (25% if co-applicant/borrower doesn't reside in property); VA loans: No down payment required.
Closing CostsBorrowers pay lender fees and third-party costs such as appraisal and title insurance fees. Specific costs not published.Typically range from $1,500 to $5,500. Includes loan origination fees, appraisal fees, title searches/insurance, survey fees, home inspection fees, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance.
Loan Origination Fees$1,495 (may be discounted by $500 for existing members)Charges origination fees on certain mortgages.
Prepayment PenaltiesNoneDoes not charge prepayment penalties.
Online Application ProcessQuick and easy online application process with online prequalification.Fully digital online application process. Pre-approval in as little as 3 minutes.
Customer Service Availability and ResponsivenessMonday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. PT for home loans. Some customers have reported poor service experiences.Available at 415-523-8837, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. 24/7 support through a voice-based AI system named Betsy.
Time to Close (Average)32 days. On-Time Close Guarantee, potentially paying up to $10,000 if they delay your closing.Around 32 days. Offers a 'One Day Mortgage' program for eligible applicants.
Refinancing OptionsRate-and-term and cash-out refinancing options. A minimum of 5% equity is required to refinance.30- and 15-year refinances, cash-out refinancing, ARM refinancing, and FHA and VA streamline refinancing.
Geographic AvailabilityHome purchase loans in every state. Mortgage refinancing is available in every state except New York (purchase only).Available in all U.S. states.

Overall Comparison

SoFi: Origination fee of $1,495 (may be discounted). Better Mortgage: Closing costs range from $1,500 to $5,500. Both average around 32 days to close.

Pros and Cons

SoFi Home Loans

Pros:
  • Variety of loan options (conventional, jumbo, FHA, VA, HELOC)
  • Online application process
  • Offers refinancing options
  • On-Time Close Guarantee
  • No prepayment penalties
  • First-time homebuyers may be eligible for a lower down payment option (3% on conventional loans)
  • SoFi members receive a discount on the origination fee
Cons:
  • Customer service hours are limited
  • Some customers have reported negative customer service experiences
  • Origination fee of $1,495 (though discounts may apply)
  • Mortgage refinancing not available in New York

Better Mortgage

Pros:
  • Wide variety of loan options
  • Fully digital online application process
  • No prepayment penalties
  • Offers a 'One Day Mortgage' program
  • Available in all U.S. states
  • Transparent by displaying mortgage rates on its website and updating them several times a day.
Cons:
  • Charges origination fees on certain mortgages
  • Closing costs can range from $1,500 to $5,500
  • Interest rates displayed assume a credit score of 760 and 20% down

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