Best Mortgage Lenders in Arizona—Backed by Data

By:

TrueRate Analyst

Arizona means balancing desert beauty with rising demand—especially in fast-growing cities like Phoenix and Tucson. With population growth driving up prices and competition, choosing the right lender can make all the difference.

To help buyers make smarter choices, we crunched the numbers. We analyzed closed-loan data from hundreds of thousands of loans across 107 different lenders operating in Arizona. Check out the full TrueRate analysis.

We also categorized lenders to help you find the right fit—whether you’re a first-time buyer, looking for a digital-first experience, or need something more specialized.

Why it stands out

Ok, we’re a little biased, but the numbers speak for themselves—low rates, no lender fees, better reviews. Tomo Mortgage was founded in 2025 by former Zillow execs who wanted to fix what was broken in the mortgage industry. They did away with bait-and-switch prices, inflated rates, and confusing fees. It was ranked Best Online Lender 2025 by Bankrate, based on its strong customer reviews and backing from major financial services firms. Tomo historically has some of the lowest rates among lenders operating in Arizona.

Lower rates drive more transparency: you can get personalized rates online without applying or speaking to sales. The rate tool includes a slider that shows how your monthly payment changes with and without points—clarity and control from the start.

Heads-up on refinancing: Tomo Mortgage doesn’t offer refinancing at this time. “Free refi” offers elsewhere often trade today’s higher rate for a future promise—so compare the total cost carefully.
See today’s rates

Read full review: Tomo Mortgage

What borrowers say

“I almost went with a different lender at first but ended up going to tomo and I’m glad I did… 10/10”
— Melina B., Virginia (via Google)
“Loan advisory team was remarkably responsive… stayed engaged until the very end.”
— Selva D., New Jersey (via Google)
“Because of Tomo’s low APRs… it gets a perfect 5 out of 5 stars for affordability.”

Why it stands out

Vantage West Credit Union, based in Pima County, AZ, offers a range of mortgage options including fixed-rate, ARMs, and specialized loans for professionals like doctors, teachers, and public service workers. Their “Heroes” and “Physician” programs offer up to 92% financing with no PMI. First-time buyers can access 100% financing with a zero down payment program. HELOCs are also available, with borrowing up to 90% of the home’s value and flexible terms.

Our TrueRate analysis of thousands of loans shows their interest rates trend below market norm.

See rate ranges

Read full review: Vantage West Credit Union

What borrowers say

When compared to other lenders, Vantage West’s mortgage offerings are competitive, particularly for borrowers who qualify for their specialized programs. However, it’s important to note that mortgage specific customer reviews are limited although general banking reviews lean poor, thus its likely service quality could be variable.

Why it stands out

Headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, FirstBank is one of the largest privately held banks in the country, with nearly $90 million in mortgage volume in Arizona alone in 2024 (HMDA data). Despite its scale, it operates with a local-first philosophy that prioritizes relationships over transactions. With a strong presence in Colorado and Arizona, FirstBank combines competitive pricing with a personalized approach—offering in-branch support, responsive loan officers, and a focus on closing on time.

Our TrueRate analysis shows their 30-year fixed conventional rates frequently beat market averages.

See rate ranges

Read full review: FirstBank

What borrowers say

Detailed third-party reviews specifically focused on FirstBank’s mortgage services are limited. Most available feedback on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and Indeed centers around general banking experiences or employee perspectives rather than home lending. While some customers highlight positive interactions and responsive service, mortgage-specific insights are relatively scarce across major review sites.

Why it stands out

Founded in 1998 as one of the first fully digital mortgage lenders, AimLoan (American Internet Mortgage) built its model on automation to cut costs and offer some of the lowest rates, especially for conventional and jumbo loans. Many customers praise its quick, as-quoted closings, but service can be slower—particularly after loans are transferred. Best for rate-focused buyers who prioritize efficiency over hands-on support.

See rate ranges

Read full review: AimLoan

What borrowers say

AimLoan earns praise across Zillow, Birdeye, and forums like Bogleheads for its consistently low rates, transparent fees, and efficient online process.

“Got the best offer from AIM for 30 years fixed rate home refinance (Investment property). Loan approval was quick. Low closing cost and everything was online and smooth. I would highly recommend AIM.”
— Sabyasachi D., AZ (via Zillow)
“I have dealt with AimLoan over 6 times for mortgage originations. Every time, I have had a wonderful experience. ”
“We refinanced recently with AIMLoan and it was a pretty awful process. The rates at the best we’ve found (almost half a percent lower than competitors), which is the reason we went with them. However, we asked several questions explicitly and were given misleading answers.”

Fairway Independent, and Rocket Mortgage originated billions in Arizona home loans last year, but only Fairway appears in our closed-loan dataset. We reviewed HMDA volume and spot-checked public rate sources for context. These aren’t directly comparable to our ranked lenders, but they’re useful reference points when shopping broadly.

Rocket Mortgage

Originated $3B+ in Arizona home loans in 2024 across 9,000+ loans (avg. loan size ~$343k). Mix: ~41% refi, ~48% purchase.

Fairway Independent

Originated $1.5B+ across 4,000+ Arizona loans in 2024 (avg. ~$379k). Mix: ~89% purchase, ~11% refi. Per our Truerate model Fairway Independent’s rates are just 0.02% above the median, saving $307 in year one but costing $277 more over 10 years. Compared to Tomo Mortgage, however, borrowers would pay about $2,271 more in the first year and over $11,462 more in 10 years—showing how small rate differences add up over time.

Lender Pick HQ Interest Rates (historical) Lender Fees Notable Programs / Notes Website Full Review
Tomo Mortgage Best Overall (Low Rates) New York, NY ~0.30% below median (historical) $0 Named Best Online Lender by Bankrate; online personalized rates; no lending fees; no refi currently tomo.com Read full review
Vantage West Credit Union Best for Specialized Loan Programs Tucson, AZ ~0.29% below median (historical) ~$995 Competitive rates and unique programs for particular professions. Limited mortgage-specific customer reviews. vantagewest.org Read full review
FirstBank Best For In-Person Service Lakewood, CO ~0.38% below median (historical) ~$1,250 Competitive rates, in-person options. efirstbank.com Read full review
AimLoan Best for Low-Cost Loans Without the Frills San Diego, CA ~0.33% below median (historical) ~$995 Low/rates, digital, possible service issues aimloan.com Read full review

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TrueRate Analyst

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Tomo Mortgage
5 out of 5 stars
Bankrate Zillow