Tennessee keeps growing, from the Nashville area to the college towns and the military communities near Fort Campbell. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Nashville, Murfreesboro, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in Tennessee, and we answer the phone. You can also read our Tennessee page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in Tennessee
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Nashville
The state's biggest market and a busy metro, with price points that tend to run higher than most of Tennessee.
Murfreesboro
A fast growing city in Rutherford County southeast of Nashville, with a university and plenty of newer neighborhoods.
Knoxville
A university city in East Tennessee with a busy market and growing suburbs.
Chattanooga
A river city on the Georgia line with a growing outdoor scene and a steady market.
Clarksville
Next to Fort Campbell, with a large military and Veteran community and a growing market.
Loan programs to know in Tennessee
Most Tennessee buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Fort Campbell near Clarksville is one of the largest military installations in the country, so VA loans come up often.
- USDA loans. Many Tennessee towns outside the larger metros may be USDA eligible, so check an address on the USDA map.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from THDA, covered below.
First-time buyer help from THDA
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in Tennessee. THDA offers the Great Choice Home Loan, with a Great Choice Plus down payment assistance option, through participating lenders. Income and price limits vary by county, and homebuyer education may be required, so ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, THDA, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
THDA programs have county specific income and price limits, so tell us where you are looking and we will help you check them.
How we work with Tennessee buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the Tennessee page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in Tennessee?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in Tennessee. Licensing details are on our Tennessee page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does Tennessee have a first-time buyer program?
Yes. THDA offers the Great Choice Home Loan, with a down payment assistance option, through participating lenders. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Can Veterans buy in Tennessee with a VA loan?
Yes, eligible Veterans and service members can use VA loans in Tennessee. Property type and condition still matter, so tell us the area you are considering.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in Tennessee and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.