Your first home in Knoxville starts with the right guide.
Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions of your life. Keystone Mortgage makes it clear, simple, and achievable — walking you through every step from first question to key in hand.
We hear these worries from first-time buyers every day.
The biggest thing holding most first-time buyers back isn’t their finances — it’s not knowing the facts. Here’s the truth about the most common concerns we hear from Knoxville buyers.
First-time buyer programs available in Knoxville, TN.
There’s no single “best” loan for every first-time buyer. Keystone Mortgage will review your specific situation and match you with the program that gives you the lowest payment, the least out-of-pocket cost, or the best long-term value — whatever matters most to you.
FHA Loan — 3.5% Down
The most widely used first-time buyer loan in America. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans offer low down payments and flexible credit requirements — ideal for buyers who are just getting started.
THDA Great Choice — Down Payment Help
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Great Choice loan is a 30-year fixed mortgage with a competitive rate AND optional down payment assistance that can cover your entire down payment and closing costs.
Conventional 97 — 3% Down
For buyers with good credit, a conventional loan with just 3% down can offer lower total costs than FHA — especially if you plan to stay in the home for several years. PMI can be removed once you reach 20% equity.
VA Loan — $0 Down (If You Qualify)
If you or your spouse served in the military, you may qualify for a VA loan with zero down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance — the best first-time buyer loan available for those who are eligible.
What buying your first home in Knoxville actually looks like.
We lay out every step before we start so there are no surprises. Here’s exactly how the process works from your first conversation with Keystone Mortgage to the day you get your keys.
Free Buyer Review
We review your credit, income, savings, and goals. No cost, no pressure, no obligation. You’ll leave knowing exactly where you stand.
Match Your Program
We identify the best loan program and any down payment assistance you qualify for — then show you your real estimated payment.
Get Pre-Approved
We issue your pre-approval letter so you can make offers on Knoxville homes with confidence. Sellers take pre-approved buyers seriously.
Find Your Home
Shop with your agent. When you find the right home, we coordinate the appraisal and keep the transaction moving forward.
Close & Get Your Keys
We walk you through every closing document and make sure you understand what you’re signing. Then you get your keys — and we celebrate.
Knoxville first-time buyers deserve a lender who actually teaches — not just sells.
Most first-time buyers feel intimidated because no one takes the time to explain things. At Keystone Mortgage, education is a core part of what we do. We answer every question — no matter how basic it seems — because an informed buyer makes confident decisions and closes without stress.
Matt Padgett and the Keystone Mortgage team have guided hundreds of first-time buyers across Knox, Blount, Anderson, and Sevier counties. We know the Knoxville market, the local programs, and most importantly — we know how to make first-time buyers feel at ease throughout the entire process.
Helping first-time buyers across East Tennessee:
Ready to take the first step?
A free, no-pressure conversation with Matt Padgett and the Keystone Mortgage team is all it takes to find out exactly what you qualify for and what your path to homeownership looks like.
(865) 909-0211 — Call NowFirst-time buyer questions — answered by your Knoxville team.
No question is too basic. Here are the ones we hear most often from first-time buyers in Knoxville. Don’t see yours? Call us at (865) 909-0211.
