- FHA Loans: FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and are a popular option among first-time homebuyers because they require a lower down payment (as little as 3.5% of the purchase price) and have more flexible credit requirements compared to conventional loans. They also offer competitive interest rates and can be used for a variety of property types, including single-family homes, duplexes, and condominiums. Keep in mind that FHA loans require mortgage insurance, which will increase your monthly payment.
- USDA Loans: USDA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are designed for low-to-moderate-income borrowers who are purchasing a home in a rural area. They require no down payment and have low-interest rates. To be eligible for a USDA loan, your income must fall below a certain threshold, and the property you're purchasing must be in a designated rural area. While Knoxville is not considered a rural area, there are several nearby towns and counties that qualify for USDA loans.
- VA Loans: VA loans are available to active-duty military members, veterans, and their spouses. They are guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and require no down payment or mortgage insurance. VA loans also have competitive interest rates and can be used for a variety of property types. To be eligible for a VA loan, you must meet certain service requirements, such as serving for a minimum amount of time.
- THDA Loans: The Tennessee Housing Development Agency offers several loan programs specifically for first-time homebuyers, including the Great Choice Home Loan program, which provides down payment assistance and has more lenient credit requirements. This can be a great option if you're struggling to save for a down payment or have less-than-perfect credit. Keep in mind that these loans have income and purchase price limits, so they may not be available to everyone.
At the end of the day, our goal is to help you find the perfect loan that will allow you to purchase the home of your dreams. If you have any questions or want to learn more about your loan options, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help make the home-buying process as easy and stress-free as possible.