Mortgages

Unlocking 2024: Is Flagstar Bank Your Best Mortgage Option?


Flagstar Bank is making waves in the mortgage lending scene, particularly for first-time homebuyers and those on tighter budgets. With incredible down payment assistance programs and innovative loan options that skip the need for mortgage insurance, they are redefining what it means to own a home in America.

If you’re looking for offerings that are as flexible as your financial situation, Flagstar won’t disappoint. They provide fixed-rate terms that stretch up to a whopping 40 years and an approval process that accommodates borrowers without a Social Security number or those utilizing nontraditional credit sources.

However, a word of caution: while Flagstar offers fantastic products, some customers have reported less-than-stellar satisfaction ratings from J.D. Power, and your loan may be managed by a third party, which can complicate your experience.

Explore Flagstar® Bank Loans

  • Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

    Choose between fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options—apply online to discover your ideal rate!

  • Types of loans

    From conventional to FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, renovation, and more—Flagstar has you covered!

  • Terms

    Flexible 15-year and 30-year fixed-rate loans or adjustable-rate loans with enticing introductory periods.

  • Credit requirements

    Get started with a credit score as low as 580 for FHA loans or 620 for conventional options.

  • Minimum down payment

    Unlock homeownership with as little as 3% down for conventional loans, and 0% for VA and USDA loans!

Pros

  • Destination Home Mortgage allows 0% down for eligible buyers
  • Up to $15,000 in grants for first-time homebuyers
  • Speedy closings—possibly within just 15 days!

Cons

  • Rates can be higher than the industry average
  • Below-average customer satisfaction ratings
  • Home equity loans are only available in select states

Pros and Cons of Flagstar Bank Mortgages

Pros

  • Offers a variety of government-backed loans including FHA, USDA, and VA loans
  • Fixed-rate mortgages with terms reaching 40 years
  • Accepts nontraditional credit for certain mortgages
  • Approval available without a Social Security number
  • Provides home equity lines of credit (HELOC) and home equity loans

Cons

  • Conventional mortgage rates not readily available online
  • Received poor customer satisfaction ratings
  • Branch locations are limited to nine states
  • Not all mortgages are serviced directly by Flagstar

Diverse Mortgage Options at Flagstar Bank

Flagstar is your go-to for a wide range of mortgage options available nationwide:

  • Fixed-rate mortgages: Lock in your rate for the life of your loan—options span from 8 to 40 years.
  • Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs): Start with a fixed rate for 5, 7, or 10 years before adjusting.
  • FHA loans: Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, requiring just a 3.5% down payment for those with a 580 FICO score.
  • VA loans: Exclusively for veterans and service members, these loans require no down payment or private mortgage insurance.
  • USDA loans: Ideal for rural homebuyers, allowing zero down payment options.
  • Jumbo loans: Flagstar offers jumbo loans up to $3 million—no official cap on loan amounts!
  • HomeReady and Home Possible: Just 3% down and lower financing costs for eligible borrowers.
  • Professional loans: Tailored for medical professionals, attorneys, and CPAs, offering competitive rates.
  • Construction loans: Options for construction-only and construction-to-permanent loans.
  • Non-qualifying mortgages: Alternative loans for those who don’t fit traditional credit or income molds.
  • Manufactured home loans: Financing available for both manufactured and mobile homes.

Qualifying for a Flagstar Bank Mortgage

  • Minimum credit score: 620 for conventional loans, 580 for FHA and VA loans.
  • Minimum down payment: 0% for VA loans, 3% for conventional, 3.5% for FHA.
  • Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): Ranges from 45% to 55% based on the loan type.

Understanding Flagstar Bank Loan Fees

Flagstar Bank’s Benefits and Discounts

Flagstar offers an array of impressive programs designed to assist homebuyers in achieving their dreams:

Relationship Discounts

Sign up for autopay using a Flagstar deposit account and enjoy a 0.25% discount on home equity loans or HELOCs.

Destination Home Mortgage

Homebuyers in select areas may qualify for a 0% down payment mortgage with no PMI and a credit score as low as 600.

Power Up Program

Qualified first-time homebuyers can secure up to $8,000 in funds toward their purchase.

Flagstar Gift Program

Potentially receive up to 3% of your down payment or $3,000 (up to $10,000 in certain states).

Detroit Land Bank Program

A unique low-down-payment option for buyers in select Michigan areas, with no PMI and flexible qualifications.

Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) Mortgages

Available for those without a Social Security number—credit score of at least 620 required.

Refinancing with Flagstar Bank

Flagstar also provides cash-out refinancing options across all 50 states and D.C., alongside HELOCs, home equity loans, and special refinancing options.

  • Credit score: 620 minimum for refinancing options.
  • Debt-to-income ratio: Maximum of 45%.
  • Home equity: Minimums vary depending on the loan type.
  • Home appraisal: Required but may be waived in some cases.

Customer Service at Flagstar Bank

While Flagstar Bank received below-average ratings in customer satisfaction from J.D. Power’s survey, it proudly holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for transparency and responsiveness to complaints.

Apply for a mortgage online, and enter your desired loan amount and ZIP code for customized rate quotes. However, be aware that conventional loan rates aren’t disclosed online.

With physical branches in only nine states, customer service is available by phone and through an online chat feature for assistance.

Comparing Flagstar Bank to Other Mortgage Lenders

Let’s place Flagstar under the spotlight alongside two other major mortgage players!

Flagstar Bank vs. Rocket Mortgage

Both lenders serve all 50 states, but while Rocket Mortgage operates online only, Flagstar boasts 400 physical branches across nine states.

Rocket Mortgage

  • Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

    Apply online for personalized rates tailored to your needs!

  • Types of loans

    Explore conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo, and specialized options!

  • Terms

    Flexible 10-, 15-, and 30-year fixed-term loans available!

  • Credit needed

  • Minimum down payment

    0% for VA, 1% for RocketONE+, and competitive down payments for conventional and FHA loans!

Pros

  • One of the largest home lenders in the U.S.
  • Offers a 1% down mortgage
  • High customer satisfaction ratings
  • Fast closing times
  • Rebates for choosing Rocket Homes!

Cons

  • No USDA or construction loans available
  • Higher origination fees compared to others
  • No physical branches for in-person assistance

When it comes to customer service, Rocket Mortgage shines. They offer remote closings, phone support on weekends, and top-notch customer satisfaction. Flagstar, on the other hand, received lower ratings from J.D. Power’s survey.

Both lenders provide sample rates online. However, Flagstar only showcases rates for government-backed fixed-rate loans.

First-time homebuyers might find Flagstar more appealing due to their extensive grant programs for newcomers, potentially offering up to $10,000. Additionally, Flagstar’s specialized loans for professionals and ITIN mortgages cater to unique borrower needs.

On the flip side, Rocket offers its own enticing options, including the 1% down Rocket ONE+ loan.

Read more: Rocket Mortgage review

Flagstar Bank vs. CrossCountry Mortgage

Both Flagstar and CrossCountry operate with a blend of online and local branches, yet CrossCountry boasts a broader presence with more locations nationwide.

Both lenders provide FHA, USDA, VA, and professional loans, but CrossCountry stands out with offerings like HELOCs and reverse mortgages.

CrossCountry Mortgage

  • Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

    Both fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages available—apply online for tailored rates!

  • Types of loans

    Offering a variety of loans, including conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, and more!

  • Terms

  • Credit needed

    620 for conventional loans, and as low as 500 for some government-insured loans.

  • Minimum down payment

Pros

  • Grants for down payments available
  • Potential for closing in just 10 days!

Cons

  • Higher rates than some competitors
  • Rates often not disclosed online

CrossCountry shines in customer service, boasting above-average ratings from J.D. Power and impressive closing times of just 10 days.

Read more: CrossCountry Mortgage review

Applying for a Mortgage with Flagstar Bank

Ready to take the plunge? You can apply for a Flagstar Bank mortgage conveniently online, over the phone, or in person at one of their branches.

For online applications, create a MyLoan account, submit your identification and income documents, and prepare for a credit check. Your preapproval lasts for 90 days while the underwriting process is underway.

Is Flagstar Bank the Right Fit for You?

If you’re a first-time homebuyer or searching for flexible, low-down-payment options, Flagstar Bank could be your perfect match. With an extensive range of specialty mortgages, including construction loans and ITIN loans, they cater to diverse borrower needs.

However, if a seamless experience with one lender throughout the mortgage process is crucial for you, consider your options carefully, as Flagstar has faced challenges with customer satisfaction and sold its servicing business recently.

FAQs

Who owns Flagstar Bank?

Flagstar Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of New York Community Bank as of 2022.

Is Flagstar Bank a legitimate option?

Absolutely! Founded in 1987, Flagstar operates nearly 400 branches and holds $112.9 billion in assets as of 2024.

Does Flagstar service its mortgages?

Flagstar discontinued servicing its mortgages in November 2024, having sold its servicing business. However, they still originate mortgages.

How can I contact Flagstar Bank?

Reach out to Flagstar Bank’s mortgage team at 844-451-8720 during business hours, or use their automated support available 24/7 at 800-968-7700. You can also write to them at
P.O. Box 660263, Dallas, Texas 75266-0263.

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Why Trust Our Insights?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide you with top-notch service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice, empowering you to make smart financial decisions. Our mortgage reviews are based on thorough research by our expert writers and editors, ensuring you receive reliable information. While we earn commissions from affiliate partners on many offers, our content is crafted independently, adhering to high journalistic standards and ethics. Check out our methodology for more insights into our selection process.

Editorial Note: The opinions, analyses, and recommendations expressed in this article are solely those of our editorial team and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any third party.

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