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Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave

The Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave, offered by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA), is specifically designed to support veterans and active-duty service members in achieving affordable homeownership. This program provides competitive mortgage rates and additional financial benefits to honor the service of military personnel and their families.

Benefits

  • Offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with reduced interest rates, ensuring predictable and affordable monthly payments.
  • Provides access to down payment and closing cost assistance through THDA’s Down Payment Assistance (DPA) Program.
  • Supports veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, and reservists who meet eligibility requirements.
  • Encourages long-term housing stability and equity building for military families across Tennessee.
  • Can be combined with other THDA programs for comprehensive financial support.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must be veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, or reservists.
  • Income and purchase price limits apply and vary based on household size and the location of the property within Tennessee.
  • The property must be located in Tennessee and used as the buyer’s primary residence.
  • A minimum credit score of 640 is required, with lender-specific underwriting criteria also applicable.
  • Participants must complete a THDA-approved homebuyer education course to ensure readiness for the responsibilities of homeownership.

Additional Information

The Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave program is a valuable initiative that recognizes the service and sacrifice of military personnel. By providing affordable mortgage options and targeted financial assistance, the program empowers eligible veterans and service members to achieve stable housing and invest in their futures. Administered by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency, this initiative supports sustainable homeownership and strengthens communities across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Program

What is the Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave program?

The Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave program offers affordable 30-year fixed-rate mortgages and additional benefits to help active-duty military members, veterans, and certain surviving spouses achieve homeownership.

Who qualifies for the Homeownership for the Brave program?

Eligible applicants include active-duty service members, veterans, members of the National Guard or Reserves, and surviving spouses of military personnel who meet the program’s eligibility requirements.

What benefits does the program provide?

The program offers reduced mortgage interest rates and access to down payment assistance to make homeownership more affordable for eligible military personnel and their families.

How much down payment assistance is available?

Eligible buyers can receive up to $6,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance, provided as a deferred second mortgage with zero interest.

Do I need to be a first-time homebuyer to qualify?

No, the program is available to both first-time and repeat homebuyers, as long as the home will serve as the buyer’s primary residence.

What is the minimum credit score required for the program?

Applicants typically need a minimum credit score of 640 to qualify. A higher credit score may improve eligibility and loan terms.

Are there income limits for this program?

Yes, income limits apply and vary based on household size and the county where the property is located. These limits ensure the program serves low-to-moderate-income households.

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What types of properties are eligible for the program?

Eligible properties include single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums. Manufactured homes may also qualify if they meet program requirements and are permanently affixed to a foundation.

What is the maximum purchase price allowed under the program?

As of 2025, the maximum purchase price varies by county but typically ranges from $300,000 to $500,000, depending on program guidelines.

Does the down payment assistance need to be repaid?

The assistance is provided as a deferred second mortgage with zero interest. Repayment is only required if the buyer sells, refinances, or moves out of the home before the loan is forgiven.

Is homebuyer education required to qualify?

Yes, completing a homebuyer education course is required to ensure buyers understand the financial and practical responsibilities of homeownership.

Can the program help with closing costs?

Yes, the down payment assistance can be used to cover eligible closing costs as well as the down payment, reducing the financial burden for buyers.

Are there location restrictions for properties?

Yes, the property must be located in Tennessee and meet the program’s eligibility criteria for location and type.

Can the program be used for newly constructed homes?

Yes, newly constructed homes are eligible as long as they meet the program’s purchase price and property requirements.

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Are there debt-to-income (DTI) ratio requirements?

The maximum allowable DTI ratio is generally 45%, though exceptions may be made for borrowers with strong credit profiles or compensating factors.

Can the Homeownership for the Brave program be combined with other assistance programs?

Yes, this program can often be combined with other state or local assistance programs to maximize benefits for eligible buyers.

How does the deferred second mortgage work?

The deferred second mortgage allows buyers to receive assistance without making payments on it while living in the home. Repayment is required only if the home is sold, refinanced, or no longer used as the primary residence.

Can this program be used with VA loans?

Yes, the program can be combined with VA loans, as well as FHA, USDA, and conventional loans, provided the buyer and property meet all requirements.

What are the benefits of the Tennessee Homeownership for the Brave program?

The program offers reduced mortgage rates, down payment assistance, and educational resources to help military families achieve and maintain homeownership.

What is the process for applying to the Homeownership for the Brave program?

Applicants work with an approved lender who will verify eligibility, guide them through the application process, and assist with securing the loan and any available assistance.

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