How much house can you afford in Madison? See your maximum price, monthly payment and pre-approval estimate. Free, instant, no credit check.
Updated · current rates and lending limits
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Savings and gifts from family count. Many first-time buyer loans need just 3% down; under 20% you pay mortgage insurance.
7.40% (Freddie Mac 30-year average, October 2026). Change it if you've been quoted a rate.
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| After | Paid in total | Still owed |
|---|
Guild Mortgage - Ryan Smith
5.0 · 410 reviews · Free pre-approval
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Mike A Zilli | Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation Loan Officer
5.0 · 397 reviews · Free pre-approval
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Jason Ford, Senior Mortgage Banker at Bell Bank
5.0 · 375 reviews · Free pre-approval
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An estimate, not a mortgage approval or pre-approval. A mortgage broker confirms your real number.
Ranked by TrustAnalytica from verified reviews · see the full Top 10 list →
Known for clear communication and a supportive approach, Guild Mortgage - Ryan Smith offers a range of loan options including FHA, VA, and conventional mortgages. The team guides clients through every step, often helping first-time buyers turn initial setbacks into successful approvals. Some find the process less smooth after signing, but overall the service is knowledgeable and helpful.
With over 20 years of experience, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation’s Madison branch focuses on guiding clients through home financing with clear, personalized support. The team handles everything from pre-approval to closing, helping first-time buyers and others navigate loan options smoothly. Customers appreciate their organized approach and transparent communication throughout the… more...
With over 20 years of experience, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation’s Madison branch focuses on guiding clients through home financing with clear, personalized support. The team handles everything from pre-approval to closing, helping first-time buyers and others navigate loan options smoothly. Customers appreciate their organized approach and transparent communication throughout the process.
Bell Bank offers a range of mortgage programs, including specialized loans for doctors and dentists, supported by a team available seven days a week. Their mortgage professionals provide clear guidance through every step, with clients appreciating their responsiveness and transparency. Some find the process fast-paced but well-managed.
Bell Bank Mortgage is known for clear, proactive communication that helps make the mortgage process smooth and less stressful. The team assists with a range of home loan services, guiding clients through each step and promptly addressing questions. Customers appreciate their responsiveness and the way they keep everyone well informed throughout closing.
Select One Mortgage focuses on providing competitive mortgage rates nationwide with a streamlined, fast loan process. Their services include purchase and refinance loans, debt consolidation, and home equity options, supported by online tools and secure applications. Clients appreciate the team’s responsiveness and guidance throughout each step of the mortgage experience.
Known for clear communication and transparency, Transparent Mortgage Solutions offers personalized mortgage guidance that helps clients understand every step of the loan process. The team assists with a variety of home financing options, including credit improvement advice, and is praised for being responsive and supportive throughout. Some clients note occasional wait times when questions arise.
MadCity Home Loans focuses on transparent, no-surprises mortgage estimates and fast, reliable closings. The team offers a wide range of loan options, including FHA, VA, WHEDA, and Jumbo loans, along with refinancing and credit consultations. Clients appreciate the clear communication and local expertise, though some note the process can be fast-paced.
Known for its Ca$h Advantage Program that helps buyers make stronger offers in competitive markets, Educated Mortgage processes, underwrites, and funds all loans in-house from its Madison office. The team offers purchase, refinance, and home equity loans with personalized guidance, often praised for clear communication and responsiveness throughout the process. Some clients note refinancing can… more...
Known for its Ca$h Advantage Program that helps buyers make stronger offers in competitive markets, Educated Mortgage processes, underwrites, and funds all loans in-house from its Madison office. The team offers purchase, refinance, and home equity loans with personalized guidance, often praised for clear communication and responsiveness throughout the process. Some clients note refinancing can take longer depending on individual circumstances.
Known for clear communication and responsiveness, Connor Lanigan at Thompson Kane guides clients through mortgage loans with a calm, friendly approach. The team helps with financing for first-time buyers and experienced homeowners alike, often smoothing what can be a stressful process. Some clients note availability beyond regular hours to keep things moving.
With a history dating back to 1960, Guild Mortgage offers a broad range of loan programs including VA, USDA, Jumbo, and renovation loans. The team provides personalized guidance and local support through in-house processing and underwriting, helping clients navigate the mortgage process with clear communication and responsiveness. Some customers note occasional scheduling challenges, but overall… more...
With a history dating back to 1960, Guild Mortgage offers a broad range of loan programs including VA, USDA, Jumbo, and renovation loans. The team provides personalized guidance and local support through in-house processing and underwriting, helping clients navigate the mortgage process with clear communication and responsiveness. Some customers note occasional scheduling challenges, but overall appreciate the smooth experience.
Lenders made 6,551 home-purchase loans in Dane County in 2025 (average about $509,000) and denied 329 — 5% of decided applications, compared with 9% across Wisconsin, according to federal mortgage data (HMDA, CFPB). In Madison, the median home is worth $372,900 and 67% of owners have a mortgage, paying a median $2,098 a month (Census ACS 2020–2024).
Source: CFPB / FFIEC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data, 2024–2025 loan applications in Dane County (originated vs denied); home values and costs: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024. Compiled by TrustAnalytica.
| # | Business | Rating | Reviews | Starting price | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guild Mortgage - Ryan Smith | 5.0 | 410 | Quoted per loan | (608) 234-5117 | Visit |
| 2 | Mike A Zilli | Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation Loan Officer | 5.0 | 397 | — | (608) 318-4671 | Visit |
| 3 | Jason Ford, Senior Mortgage Banker at Bell Bank | 5.0 | 375 | — | (608) 225-9918 | Visit |
| 4 | Bell Bank Mortgage, Jason Weber | 5.0 | 171 | — | (608) 345-1138 | Visit |
| 5 | Select One Mortgage | 5.0 | 120 | — | (608) 826-5626 | Visit |
| 6 | Transparent Mortgage Solutions - Ritchie Baumann NMLS# 957614 | 4.9 | 117 | $20 | (262) 754-3331 | Visit |
| 7 | Mad City Home Loans | Rob Miller | Powered by ProVisor, Inc. | 4.9 | 102 | Quoted per loan | (608) 227-2002 | Visit |
| 8 | Educated Mortgage Services | 4.9 | 72 | Quoted per loan | (608) 834-5000 | Visit |
| 9 | Connor Lanigan - Thompson Kane | 5.0 | 67 | Quoted per loan | (920) 350-5338 | Visit |
| 10 | Guild Mortgage Company | 4.9 | 41 | Quoted per loan | (608) 234-5117 | Visit |
Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio. Housing costs (principal and interest, property tax, homeowners insurance and mortgage insurance) should stay under about 31% of your gross monthly income, and housing plus your other monthly debts under 43%. The calculator finds the highest home price that passes both tests with your down payment, on a 30-year fixed loan.
An estimate, not a mortgage approval or pre-approval. Your credit, income type, the property and the lender all change the answer; a mortgage broker confirms your real number. Sources: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (October 2026), U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2024 property tax data, FHA and CFPB debt-to-income guidance.
General information, not financial advice — consult a qualified professional.