Question 1

What types of home loans are available in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Tennessee homebuyers have access to a wide range of mortgage options depending on their financial profile and property goals. The most common loan types include VA loans for eligible veterans and active-duty service members, FHA loans for buyers with lower down payments or flexible credit requirements, USDA loans for eligible rural and suburban properties, and conventional loans for well-qualified buyers. Additional options include jumbo loans for higher-value properties, construction loans for new builds, Non-QM and bank statement loans for self-employed borrowers, and DSCR loans for real estate investors.

Question 2

Where is Valor Mortgage located?

Accepted Answer

Valor Mortgage is located at 724 S Main St, Springfield, TN 37172 in Robertson County. We serve homebuyers and homeowners across the Greater Nashville area including Nashville, Brentwood, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Goodlettsville, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities. Appointments can be scheduled in person or virtually. Call (615) 671-9178 or apply online at valor.mortgage.

Question 3

Who is Christopher Armantrout?

Accepted Answer

Christopher Armantrout is a Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator in the State of Tennessee (NMLS #1210804) with over 10 years of experience in residential mortgage lending. He is a Nashville native who specializes in personalized mortgage strategies for a wide range of borrowers including first-time homebuyers, veterans, self-employed individuals, real estate investors, first responders, and teachers. He has been originating loans in Tennessee since 2015 and holds a BBB A+ rating.

Question 4

What is the difference between a mortgage broker and a bank?

Accepted Answer

A bank can only offer its own loan products at its own rates. A mortgage broker works independently and has access to multiple wholesale lenders, allowing them to shop rates and terms on a borrower's behalf. This typically results in more competitive rates, more loan options, and a more personalized experience. Mortgage brokers are also required by law to disclose all compensation, which creates greater transparency for the borrower.

Question 5

Can I buy a home in Tennessee with no down payment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are two primary zero down payment loan options available in Tennessee. VA loans are available to eligible veterans and active-duty service members with no down payment and no private mortgage insurance required. USDA loans are available for properties in eligible rural and suburban areas of Tennessee, also with no down payment required. Down payment assistance programs are also available for qualified buyers who do not meet VA or USDA eligibility requirements.

Question 6

How do I get pre-approved for a mortgage in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Mortgage pre-approval requires a review of your income, assets, credit history, and employment. The process typically takes 24 to 48 hours with a responsive lender. A pre-approval letter confirms how much home you can afford and strengthens your offer in a competitive market. To get started you will need recent pay stubs or bank statements, two years of tax returns, a government-issued ID, and authorization for a credit check. Self-employed borrowers may qualify using bank statements or profit and loss statements instead of traditional documentation.

Question 7

How long does it take to close on a home loan in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Most mortgage loans close within 21 to 30 days from the time a complete application is submitted. The timeline depends on the loan type, the complexity of the borrower's financial profile, appraisal scheduling, and title work. VA and USDA loans can occasionally take longer due to government processing requirements. Working with an organized lender who communicates proactively and responds quickly to document requests is the most effective way to keep a closing on schedule.

Question 8

What credit score is needed to buy a home in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Minimum credit score requirements vary by loan type. FHA loans typically require a minimum score of 580 with 3.5% down, or 500 with 10% down. Conventional loans generally require a minimum score of 620. VA loans do not have a government-mandated minimum score but individual lenders typically look for 580 or higher. USDA loans generally require a 640 or above for streamlined processing. Non-QM and bank statement loans have more flexible criteria and evaluate the full financial picture rather than score alone.

Question 9

What is Valor Mortgage's BBB rating?

Accepted Answer

Valor Mortgage holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is a fully accredited BBB business. The BBB A+ rating reflects a consistent record of resolving customer complaints, transparent business practices, and time in operation. You can verify the accreditation directly at the BBB website under Valor Mortgage LLC in Springfield, TN.

Question 10

Are there special mortgage programs for first responders in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Specialized mortgage programs are available for police officers, firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and other emergency personnel in Tennessee. These programs typically feature reduced lender fees, competitive interest rates, and flexible qualification criteria designed around the income structure and employment patterns common to first responder careers.

Question 11

Are there home loan options for self-employed borrowers in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Self-employed borrowers who cannot qualify using traditional W-2 or tax return documentation have several options. Bank statement loans allow qualification based on 12 to 24 months of personal or business bank statements. Profit and loss loans use a CPA-prepared P&L statement as the primary income documentation. DSCR loans for investment properties qualify based on the property's rental income rather than the borrower's personal income. Non-QM loans evaluate the full financial picture using alternative documentation and flexible underwriting guidelines.

Question 12

What areas does Valor Mortgage serve in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Valor Mortgage is licensed throughout the State of Tennessee and actively serves homebuyers and homeowners across the Greater Nashville metropolitan area including Nashville, Springfield, Brentwood, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Goodlettsville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, and surrounding Robertson County and Middle Tennessee communities. Remote and virtual appointments are available for borrowers anywhere in Tennessee.

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