2026 Most Loved Employers

These mortgage companies earned top marks the only way that matters: from their own employees

By National Mortgage Professional

NMP invited mortgage companies nationwide to take part in a program measuring what it means to be an exceptional employer in 2026. Each accepted company received a unique code to distribute to employees, granting them secure, anonymous access to a confidential survey their leadership could not view or influence — covering benefits, flexibility, culture, communication, professional development, community involvement, and more.

Hundreds of responses poured in, with every rating tallied by category to reveal a clear picture of how these companies truly show up for their people.

The outcome is this year’s list. Each one willingly opened itself up to honest, anonymous feedback from the people who matter most — their employees. And each earned its place on this podium of excellence. These organizations are, without question, the Most Loved Mortgage Employers in the industry for 2026.

American Pacific Mortgage

Folsom, CA

Employees (at time of survey): 2,862

Benefits:

401(k) with Company Match
Company Paid Life Insurance
Paid Time Off
Maternity Leave
Training
Remote Workplace
Profit Sharing
ESOP, Contribution to Health Insurance and Wellness Program (Additional)

What Employees Value Most:

Ethical, responsible operations (99% agree)
Positive impact on clients and communities (99% agree)
Would recommend as a great place to work (99% agree)
Positive workplace culture (99% agree)
Employee pride in the company (98% agree)

In what ways does the company show appreciation for its people and support a healthy work-life balance?

At American Pacific Mortgage, giving back to employees starts with ownership. As an employee-owned company, our ESOP provides team members with a meaningful stake in our long-term success, at no cost to them, helping build financial security beyond traditional compensation. We pair that with a culture rooted in support and accessibility. Our leaders prioritize open communication, actively seek feedback, and investing in employee growth. Work-life balance is a priority, not a talking point. We offer flexible schedules and a culture that respects personal commitments, family, and well-being. Employees also have access to a holistic wellness program designed to support physical, mental, and financial health. The result is an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed both professionally and personally.

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

At APM, community impact is not an initiative; it is part of who we are. Through APMCares, our employee-driven nonprofit founded in 2015, we support both our employees during times of hardship and the communities where we live and work. What makes APMCares unique is that our giving is personal. Employees help identify causes and nonprofit organizations that matter most to their communities, allowing support to be both meaningful and locally driven. Our efforts focus on housing, food insecurity, crisis support, mental health, and veterans’ services. To date, APMCares has helped more than 600,000 individuals and families, donated over $3 million, and supported over 400 organizations. Funded by employees, it reflects the compassion, generosity, and shared sense of purpose that define our culture.

Employee Testimonials

“I’ve truly found a family at APM. I feel seen, respected, and genuinely appreciated — and as a loan originator, that’s huge in this industry. Most lenders treat LOs like an expense line item; APM does the opposite. They invest in us, listen to us, and make it clear we matter.”

— Loan Originator, 1–2 years

“I feel appreciated at APM; they truly value their people. I feel supported by leaders who live up to the APM core values by showing they care (Respect), delivering straight talk (Transparent), and remaining determined and resourceful (Scrappy).”

— Branch Manager, Sales Leadership, 3–5 years

“The leadership team has provided outstanding support and opportunities for growth throughout my time here. Their guidance and investment in employee development have helped me advance my career, take on new challenges, and continue growing professionally.”

— Program Manager, Marketing and Business Development, 5–10 years

Fairway Home Mortgage

Madison, WI

Employees (at time of survey): 4,297

Benefits:

401(k) with Company Match
Company Paid Life Insurance
Company Paid Health Insurance
Company Paid Disability Income Insurance
Paid Time Off
Training
Remote Workplace

What Employees Value Most:

Positive impact on clients and communities (99% agree)
Employee pride in the company (99% agree)
Ethical, responsible operations (98% agree)
Would recommend as a great place to work (98% agree)
Positive workplace culture (99% agree)

How does the company help employees grow — through career opportunities, mentorship, or personal development?

Growth at Fairway is both intentional and accessible. Employees have access to training programs, leadership development, and role-based learning that supports career progression at every stage. Mentorship happens organically through strong manager relationships and leadership accessibility. Managers are expected to coach, not just manage, which creates meaningful development conversations and ongoing feedback. There is also a strong focus on self-awareness and strengths-based development through tools and programs that help employees better understand how they work and lead. Whether someone wants to deepen their expertise or explore new opportunities, Fairway creates space for growth while providing the support needed to succeed.

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Fairway is deeply committed to giving back to the communities it serves. Employees regularly participate in local volunteer efforts, charitable initiatives, and company-wide campaigns like Fairway JOY Week that encourage service and connection. We have two nonprofits, American Warrior Initiative and Fairway Cares, both of which provide unique ways for us to serve as an organization. We also have the Fairway Foundation to help in the face of tragedy. Giving back is not an occasional effort. It is part of who Fairway is.

Employee Testimonials

“Fairway Home Mortgage is, without a doubt, the best mortgage company I have worked for in more than 30 years in mortgage lending. Leadership is authentic. Our CEO is always available to answer questions, and personally called me when a closing was delayed. He also personally called the family at the closing table to let them know a solution would be available within 30 minutes.”

— Loan Advisor, 5–10 years

“After almost 18 years at Fairway, I’ve learned that culture isn’t something you talk about; it’s something you experience — one loan at a time. Fairway has consistently invested in people first, creating an environment where relationships, personal growth, leadership development, and serving others matter as much as production. That’s why so many of us stay.”

— Branch Manager, 10+ years

“What stands out most is the people. We come from diverse backgrounds, yet we are united by a common goal — to make a positive difference in the lives of our clients and in the communities we serve.”

— AVP, HR Operations, 10+ years

Gateway Mortgage

Jenks, OK

Employees (at time of survey): 598

Benefits:

401(k) with Company Match
Company Paid Life Insurance
Company Paid Health Insurance
Company Paid Disability Income Insurance
Paid Time Off
Maternity Leave
Paternity Leave
Training
Executive Bonus
Pet Insurance, LegalShield (Additional)

What Employees Value Most:

Ethical, responsible operations (97% agree)
Would recommend as a great place to work (96% agree)
Flexibility when needed (97% agree)
Positive impact on clients and communities (97% agree)
Employee pride in the company (96% agree)

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

We keep it pretty simple: we are world class at closing loans. Our passion is strengthening families through homeownership, and we truly have fun doing it. In fact, we take that seriously enough to have a Chief Fun Officer dedicated to employee engagement, ensuring our culture stays energized, connected, and people-first. What really sets us apart is our commitment beyond the transaction. We believe in making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Our teams volunteer more than 3,000 hours each year with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Junior Achievement. Plus, with every mortgage we close, we donate $5 to Folds of Honor in support of our nation’s veterans.

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Giving back is essential to us. Through our Gateway Gives Back program and partnerships with organizations focused on affordable housing, education, veterans, and community development, we strive to make a positive impact. Since 2018, our team members have contributed over 7,700 volunteer hours, and the company has donated more than $750,000 to support these causes. We encourage employees to volunteer by offering paid time off they can use to support their chosen charities. Additionally, our Gateway Benevolence Fund, supported by team members, provides financial assistance to colleagues in need, whether for car repairs, medical bills, or rent. Each year, we help 30 to 40 team members through this initiative.

Employee Testimonials

“Gateway helps bring people home because they make working here feel like home. Working for Gateway has been a huge breath of fresh air for me, and being surrounded by people who genuinely care about the business and their team is a big deal.”

— Loan Originator Assistant, Operations, 6 months–1 year

“Gateway First Bank is where you are more than a cog in the wheel, and helping the boat go faster makes you feel like a part of the team!”

— Senior Compliance Risk Analyst, 5–10 years

“I love working at Gateway Mortgage because it truly feels like a team where people come first in everything we do. The culture of integrity, connection, and shared purpose makes Gateway a place I’m genuinely proud to be part of every day.”

— Senior Social Media Strategist, Marketing and Business Development, 3–5 years

USA Mortgage

St. Louis, MO

Employees (at time of survey): 496

Benefits:

401(k) with Company Match
Company Paid Life Insurance
Company Paid Disability Income Insurance
Paid Time Off
Training
Remote Workplace
Profit Sharing

What Employees Value Most:

Flexibility when needed (98% agree)
Ethical, responsible operations (98% agree)
Positive impact on clients and communities (97% agree)
Would recommend as a great place to work (98% agree)
Genuine care for employee well-being (97% agree)

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

USA Mortgage’s culture is rooted in ownership, trust, and possibility. As a 100% employee-owned company, people here don’t just work for the business — they are truly invested in its success and in each other. The Home of Possibility isn’t a tagline; it’s a mindset that encourages innovation, accountability, and constant improvement. What sets USA Mortgage apart in the mortgage and banking industry is how intentionally people are put first — employees, partners, and borrowers alike. Decisions are guided by long-term relationships rather than short-term wins, and there’s a shared belief that doing the right thing leads to sustainable success.

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Giving back is a core part of life at USA Mortgage. The company regularly supports charitable initiatives, volunteer efforts, and housing-focused causes — including hands-on work like Habitat for Humanity events and local community partnerships. Employees are encouraged to get involved and make an impact, reinforcing the belief that being the Home of Possibility means creating opportunity not just through homeownership, but through service and stewardship as well.

Employee Testimonials

“What sets us apart is that everyone here is an owner. That changes how we show up — for each other and for our clients. We’re not just building loans; we’re building a company we’re proud of, together.”

— COO, Executive Leadership, 10+ years

“We work for a company that rewards us with ownership. It isn’t a gimmick or trick — we truly get vested as owners in the company the longer we work here. And that can be worth more than people expect!”

— Processor, 10+ years

“Working at USA Mortgage has been incredible from day one. A lot of companies talk about how great they are and everything they’ll do for you, but when it comes time to deliver, the follow-through isn’t there. USA Mortgage is not one of those companies.”

— Mortgage Loan Officer, Less than 6 months

Certainty Home Lending

Chicago, IL

Employees (at time of survey): 195

Benefits:

401(k) with Company Match
Company Paid Life Insurance
Company Paid Health Insurance
Company Paid Disability Income Insurance
Paid Time Off
Maternity Leave
Paternity Leave
Training
Remote Workplace
Executive Bonus

What Employees Value Most:

Inclusive, supportive workplace (97% agree)
Positive workplace culture (97% agree)
Ethical, responsible operations (97% agree)
Transparent leadership communication (97% agree)
Flexibility when needed (96% agree)

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

Certainty Home Lending was built on the straightforward belief that loan officers do their best work when they’re genuinely supported, not just managed. Certainty brings national resources to bear while preserving the kind of close-knit culture where people actually know each other. Leadership is accessible, decisions get made quickly, and the focus stays on helping borrowers rather than navigating internal politics. What may set Certainty apart most is the deliberate effort to hire people who care about their clients, their colleagues, and the craft of what they do. That combination of purpose and accountability tends to attract professionals who are serious about the industry.

Can you share an example of someone who really thrives here, and what it says about the environment overall?

The people who tend to thrive at Certainty are the ones who want ownership over their business without having to build everything from scratch. Consider a seasoned loan officer who came from a shop where back-office delays were constant. At Certainty, they can focus on client relationships because the operational support is solid. Or a newer LO who wanted access to diverse loan products and found that Certainty’s platform let them serve clients they simply couldn’t have helped elsewhere. What connects them is a preference for accountability over hand-holding, and genuine pride in the borrower experience they’re able to deliver.

Employee Testimonials

“The environment Franco has created here at Certainty is truly something special. It’s hard to fully explain, but it never feels like I’m forcing myself to go to work each day. Certainty truly feels like a family — one you genuinely want to see succeed.”

— VP of Mortgage Lending, 1–2 years

“Certainty Home Lending immediately welcomed me as a new employee and every day since has made me feel valued. I came from a very toxic work environment … The calm, caring nature of everyone here has made the transition to Certainty easy. I am very grateful for the opportunity I have been given and am proud to say who I work for now!”

— Senior Processor, Less than 6 months

“In my 20+ years in the mortgage industry, Certainty is the first employer where I felt my voice was heard. I have no hesitation reaching out to leadership with concerns.”

— Licensed Sales Assistant, 3–5 years

American Pacific Mortgage

Folsom, CA

In what ways does the company show appreciation for its people and support a healthy work-life balance?

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Employee Testimonials

Fairway Home Mortgage

Madison, WI

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Gateway Mortgage

Jenks, OK

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Employee Testimonials

USA Mortgage

St. Louis, MO

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

Beyond the business, how does the company contribute to the community or support social causes?

Employee Testimonials

Certainty Home Lending

Chicago, IL

How would you describe this company’s culture and values? What makes it stand out in the mortgage and banking industry?

Can you share an example of someone who really thrives here, and what it says about the environment overall?

Employee Testimonials

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