This week, a recent survey of the top national mortgage lenders reveals that four firms are still offering mortgage rates below 6%. The data comes from Yahoo Finance, which ranks these lenders based on their annual percentage rate (APR), inclusive of any lender fees.
The leading mortgage lenders identified for February 9, 2026, include Navy Federal Credit Union, PenFed Credit Union, Citi Mortgage, and Chase Home Loans, all of which have consistently provided competitive 30-year fixed mortgage rates under 6% since mid-November. Although the national averages, as reported by Freddie Mac, remain above this threshold, prospective borrowers can still find significant savings by exploring multiple lending options.
Among the 16 lenders evaluated, Bank of America, PNC, Flagstar Bank, Rocket Mortgage, Rate, and Third Federal did not rank in the top 10 for this period, with a notable 1.185 percentage point difference in APR between the highest-ranked Navy Federal and the lowest, Third Federal.
It’s essential to note that the sample mortgage rates utilized in this survey are based on generalized assumptions from lender websites. Specific rates can vary considerably depending on individual financial profiles, including credit scores and down payments, as well as geographic factors.
For borrowers looking to secure the best rates, shopping around is crucial. Analysis from Realtor.com suggests that this strategy can result in average savings of up to $44,000 over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Focusing on the APR is vital, as it encompasses both the interest rate and any associated lender fees, providing a comprehensive view of annual borrowing costs.
Lenders may also offer mortgage discount points to reduce interest rates. These points, equivalent to 1% of the loan amount, lower the interest rate by approximately 0.25%. While they are often included in advertised rates, borrowers have the option to decline these points for a higher rate if that aligns better with their financial strategy.
Special offers are increasingly common as well. Currently, Citi Mortgage is offering $500 off closing costs, while Chase promises a $5,000 incentive for timely closings—a reminder for shoppers to inquire about promotions and potential discounts.
Simplifying the mortgage shopping process can help ease decision-making. When comparing rates from different lenders, it is advisable to request quotes without discount points, enabling a clean comparison of APRs.
The methodology for this ranking emphasizes the importance of APR as the most accurate metric for assessing borrowing costs, ensuring that borrowers can make informed decisions in a competitive lending landscape.