SSL Secured
Privacy Protected
Licensed & Regulated
MortgageLenderNearMe
Columbus, IN

The Best Mortgage Lenders in Columbus, IN

Compare verified mortgage lenders serving Columbus, Indiana. Find competitive rates on conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans from experienced professionals.

3
Top Lenders
4.8
Avg Rating
670+
Reviews
10
Loan Types

Available Loan Programs in Columbus

Conventional
FHA
VA
USDA
Jumbo
Construction
Refinance
Construction-to-Permanent
Home Equity
First-time Homebuyer

Featured Mortgage Lenders

1

Centra Credit Union Mortgage Team

Centra Credit Union

★★★★☆
4.8/5

Centra Credit Union stands out as Columbus' premier local mortgage lender with deep community roots and exceptional member service. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative, Centra offers highly competitive rates and personalized mortgage solutions. Their mortgage team provides comprehensive guidance through the entire home buying process, with special expertise in first-time homebuyer programs and local market knowledge. With multiple Columbus locations and a reputation for responsive, transparent service, they consistently receive high marks for making the mortgage process straightforward and stress-free for local homebuyers.

Experience:15 years
Reviews:150 customer reviews
2325 Jonathan Moore Pike, Columbus, IN 47201

Loan Types:

ConventionalFHAVAUSDAJumboConstructionRefinance
Visit Website
2

First Financial Bank Mortgage Division

First Financial Bank

★★★★☆
4.7/5

First Financial Bank brings over 150 years of banking experience to Columbus homebuyers with a strong local presence and regional expertise. Their mortgage division is particularly noted for competitive construction and renovation loans, serving Columbus's active housing market. The local mortgage team provides personalized service with quick turnaround times and flexible underwriting. Customers consistently praise their professionalism, local decision-making authority, and ability to navigate complex loan scenarios. As a community-focused institution, they understand the specific needs of Bartholomew County residents.

Experience:12 years
Reviews:120 customer reviews
3212 25th Street, Columbus, IN 47203

Loan Types:

ConventionalFHAVAUSDAConstruction-to-PermanentHome EquityRefinance
Visit Website
3

Ruoff Mortgage Company

Ruoff Mortgage

★★★★☆
4.9/5

Ruoff Mortgage has built an outstanding reputation as one of Indiana's top mortgage lenders with a strong Columbus presence. Known for their "No Surprises" approach and exceptional customer service, they consistently rank among the highest-rated mortgage companies in the region. Their experienced loan officers provide comprehensive guidance through every step of the mortgage process, with particular strength in first-time homebuyer programs and competitive rate options. With deep Indiana roots and extensive local market knowledge, Ruoff receives consistent praise for their transparency, communication, and ability to close loans efficiently.

Experience:20 years
Reviews:400 customer reviews
2325 25th Street, Suite 300, Columbus, IN 47201

Loan Types:

ConventionalFHAVAUSDAJumboConstructionRefinanceFirst-time Homebuyer
Visit Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about mortgage lending in Columbus, IN

Are there any special mortgage programs for first-time homebuyers in Columbus, IN?

Yes, Columbus offers several programs through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), including the First Home program with below-market interest rates and down payment assistance. Local lenders also participate in these state-wide programs, which can be particularly beneficial given Columbus's competitive housing market. These programs often have income limits that align well with Columbus's median household income levels.

How do Columbus's property tax rates affect my mortgage payments?

Bartholomew County, where Columbus is located, has property tax rates that typically range from 0.8% to 1.2% of assessed value, which is slightly below the Indiana state average. Your lender will factor these taxes into your monthly escrow payment, adding approximately $150-$300 per month to your mortgage payment for a typical $250,000 home. It's important to budget for this as property taxes can significantly impact your total monthly housing cost.

What are typical mortgage rates offered by local Columbus lenders?

Columbus mortgage rates generally align with national averages but can vary by 0.125%-0.25% between local institutions like Centra Credit Union, First Financial Bank, and national lenders. As of 2024, rates for 30-year fixed mortgages in Columbus typically range from 6.5% to 7.25%, depending on credit score and loan terms. Local credit unions often offer competitive rates to members, which can be advantageous for Columbus residents.

How does Columbus's unique architecture and older home inventory affect mortgage lending?

Columbus's renowned architectural heritage means many homes may be historic or have unique features that require special consideration. Lenders may require additional inspections for older homes, particularly those in historic districts, and might have stricter appraisal requirements. For homes designated as historic, you may need to explore specialized renovation loans like the FHA 203(k) to preserve architectural integrity while meeting lending standards.

What down payment is typically needed for homes in Columbus's competitive market?

While conventional loans require 5-20% down, many Columbus buyers utilize FHA loans with 3.5% down or VA loans with 0% down, which is particularly helpful given the city's median home prices of $250,000-$350,000. With Columbus's strong employer base including Cummins and other manufacturers, local lenders are often flexible with down payment requirements for employees of major companies. Combining IHCDA assistance programs with these loan options can further reduce upfront costs.

Mortgage Insights

Finding Your Financial Partner: Why a Local Commercial Mortgage Broker Matters f

Finding Your Financial Partner: Why a Local Commercial Mortgage Broker Matters for Columbus Homebuyers

When you think "commercial mortgage broker," you might picture skyscrapers and shopping centers, not your future family home in Columbus. But here’s a local secret many successful homebuyers in our community know: establishing a relationship with a skilled commercial mortgage broker can be a strategic move, even for residential purchases. In Columbus’s unique market, where major employers like Cummins shape a stable but competitive environment, thinking like an investor can give you an edge.

So, how does this apply to you? A commercial mortgage broker specializes in complex, non-standard financing. While your first call should always be to a residential loan officer, there are scenarios where a commercial broker’s expertise is invaluable. Are you considering a mixed-use property downtown, perhaps with a storefront below and an apartment above? Maybe you’re eyeing a multi-family home as an investment while you live in one unit. Perhaps you’re a self-employed professional or small business owner with intricate financials that don’t fit a standard loan template. This is where a local commercial broker shines.

For Columbus homebuyers, the local angle is critical. A broker based in Indiana understands our state’s specific programs and economic landscape. They’re familiar with Columbus’s distinct architectural heritage and neighborhoods, from the modern homes near the Commons to the historic properties in Haw Creek. This knowledge allows them to accurately assess property value and potential, which is crucial for non-standard loans. They also have established relationships with local and regional banks, credit unions, and private lenders who know the Columbus market intimately. A national online lender might not grasp the enduring value of a home designed by a noted architect here, but a local financial partner will.

On a state level, Indiana offers programs that a knowledgeable broker can help navigate. While primarily for residential use, understanding programs like the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA) offerings can be part of a broader financial picture. A savvy commercial broker can sometimes structure financing that works in concert with these programs or identify alternative solutions for properties that don’t qualify for conventional routes.

Your actionable advice? Start with a consultation. Even if you’re years away from buying an investment property, have a conversation with a recommended commercial mortgage broker in Columbus or the wider Indianapolis region. Discuss your long-term goals of building equity and potentially generating rental income in our stable market. Ask them: “How can I structure my finances today to qualify for more creative financing tomorrow?” Build that relationship now. When you find the perfect unique property in Columbus that doesn’t fit the standard mold, you’ll have a trusted, local expert ready to help you secure it, turning a complex financing challenge into your dream home or smart investment.

Nearby Cities

Explore mortgage lenders in cities near Columbus, IN

Why Choose a Mortgage Lender in Columbus?

Local Market Knowledge

Lenders who understand Columbus's housing market can offer better guidance and competitive rates.

Multiple Loan Options

Access to conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo loans tailored to your financial situation.

Proven Track Record

Work with lenders who have years of experience and hundreds of satisfied customers in Indiana.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Mortgage Lender?

Connect with top-rated mortgage professionals in Columbus and get competitive rates on your home loan.