As an ABR® certified buyer’s representative, Jai Williams specializes in guiding first-time buyers in Tennessee from pre-approval through closing, ensuring every decision is fully understood before it is made. She also hosts free homebuyer education workshops throughout the year.
Jai Williams is a licensed REALTOR® with active licensure in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama. She serves buyers, sellers, and relocating families across all three states and provides real estate guidance and referral connections for clients nationwide.
Step 1: Get Your Finances in Order
Before you look at a single listing you need to know your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and how much home you can afford. FHA loans require a minimum score of 580. Conventional loans require 620. THDA loans require 640. A score of 740 or higher qualifies for the best available rates.
Step 2: Get Pre-Approved
Pre-approval involves a full review of your credit, income, and assets by a lender and results in a letter stating how much you are approved to borrow. In today’s Tennessee market sellers expect a pre-approval letter before considering any offer. Pre-approval is not the same as pre-qualification, pre-qualification is an estimate, pre-approval is verified.
Loan Options for Tennessee Buyers
FHA Loans: Down payment as low as 3.5% with a 580 credit score. Flexible qualification requirements.
Conventional Loans: Available with as little as 3% down for qualified buyers with a 620 minimum credit score.
THDA Great Choice: Tennessee’s state program with down payment assistance up to 6% for buyers who meet income and purchase price limits set by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency.
VA Loans: Zero down payment required for eligible veterans, active duty, National Guard, reservists, and surviving spouses.
USDA Loans: Zero down payment for buyers purchasing in eligible rural and suburban areas. Portions of the greater Chattanooga region qualify.
Free First-Time Buyer Workshop
Jai hosts Smart Homebuying 101, a free workshop covering the 20 most costly mistakes buyers make. Registration is always free at jaiwilliams.com.
Ready to Take the First Step
Whether you are six months out or ready to move now, the right time to connect with Jai is before you start searching, not after you have already fallen in love with a house.
See the full resource guide: Tennessee First-Time Buyers