BETR

Better Home & Finance Holding Company is a digital homeownership platform that originated as Better.com, aiming to transform the home buying and mortgage process through technology. Headquartered in New York City, Better built a vertically integrated platform encompassing mortgage origination, real estate services, title and settlement services, and homeowners insurance, all delivered through a digital-first experience. The company's mission centers on making homeownership more accessible, affordable, and streamlined by eliminating inefficiencies, reducing costs, and improving customer experience compared to traditional mortgage and real estate processes. Better's technology platform enables customers to complete the entire home buying journey online, from mortgage pre-approval through closing, with digital tools that simplify document submission, application tracking, and communication. The company's mortgage business operates as a direct lender, leveraging technology and data analytics to underwrite loans efficiently while offering competitive rates by reducing overhead costs associated with physical branches and traditional processes. Better also provides real estate brokerage services through Better Real Estate, connecting buyers with agents and offering reduced commission structures. The company grew rapidly during the pandemic-era refinancing boom but has faced challenges including mortgage market contraction as interest rates rose, operational difficulties, significant workforce reductions, and leadership controversies. Better went public via SPAC merger after abandoning traditional IPO plans. The company competes in a crowded digital mortgage market against both traditional lenders and fintech competitors. Success depends on Better's ability to achieve sustainable profitability, differentiate its value proposition, retain customers across market cycles, and execute on its vision of becoming a comprehensive homeownership platform rather than solely a mortgage originator.