Articles by Travis
Straightforward reads on buying, refinancing, and the parts of a mortgage that are easy to get confused by — no jargon, no runaround. Below, quick answers to the questions Franklin, Brentwood and Nashville homebuyers ask most.
Short, direct answers to common Tennessee mortgage questions — each one links to a deeper program page if you want to go further. Prefer to browse them as a dedicated Q&A library? See all mortgage questions, answered →
Down payment requirements in Tennessee range from 0% (VA) to 3–3.5% (conventional/FHA) up to 20%, plus THDA assistance programs for eligible buyers.
Read the answer →Minimum credit scores for a Nashville mortgage typically run 580–620, though your score also drives your rate — here's how the bands actually work.
Read the answer →Tennessee closing costs typically run 2–5% of the purchase price, covering lender fees, title, taxes, and prepaids — here's a real breakdown.
Read the answer →Yes — self-employed borrowers can qualify using tax returns, bank statements, or P&L documentation. Here's how lenders actually evaluate your income.
Read the answer →A DSCR loan qualifies investors on a property's rental income instead of personal income — popular with Nashville landlords scaling a portfolio.
Read the answer →Mortgage points can lower your rate in exchange for an upfront fee — whether they're worth it depends on your break-even timeline and how long you'll keep the loan.
Read the answer →Tennessee first-time buyers can access THDA's Great Choice loan and down payment assistance, plus FHA, VA, and conventional low-down-payment options.
Read the answer →Have a question that isn't covered above? Browse the full list of loan programs, or reach out directly and I'll answer it.
