Can I Buy My First Home in Nashville With Zero Down?

Why Zero‑Down Options Matter for Nashville First‑Time Buyers

Buying your first home is a big milestone — but saving for a down payment can feel overwhelming. In Nashville, where the median home price is around $482,000, even a 3% down payment can mean coming up with over $14,000. That’s why zero‑down programs are game‑changers for qualified buyers.

Who Qualifies for a Zero‑Down Mortgage?

There are two main types of true zero‑down loan programs:

1. VA Loans

• Available to eligible veterans, active‑duty service members, and some surviving spouses

• No down payment required

• No private mortgage insurance (PMI)

• Competitive interest rates

• Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

2. USDA Loans

• Designed for rural and certain suburban buyers

• Income limits apply

• The property must be in a USDA‑eligible area

• Many parts of Wilson County, parts of Rutherford County, and surrounding rural areas qualify

• No down payment required

Nik’s Tip: Some areas just outside Nashville city limits — like portions of Mount Juliet and Nolensville — may qualify for USDA.

What About Low‑Down‑Payment Options?

Even if you don’t qualify for VA or USDA, there are still options that minimize your out‑of‑pocket costs:

• FHA Loans: 3.5% down

• Conventional Loans for First‑Time Buyers: As little as 3% down with good credit

• THDA Great Choice Program: Down payment assistance for Tennessee buyers

Nashville & Tennessee Down Payment Assistance Programs

Several local and state programs can help cover your down payment or closing costs:

• THDA Great Choice Home Loan Program: Offers $6,000 or more in down payment help for qualified buyers

• Metro Nashville Down Payment Assistance: Income‑based grants for eligible households

• Local Credit Unions & Banks: Some lenders offer grants for first‑time buyers

The Truth About Zero‑Down Home Buying

Zero‑down doesn’t mean zero cost. You’ll still need money for:

• Earnest money deposit

• Home inspection

• Appraisal

• Closing costs (often 2–5% of the purchase price)

Nik’s Advice: Even with zero‑down financing, have some cash reserves so you’re comfortable after closing.

How Nik Shewmaker REALTOR Can Help

• Local Knowledge: Knows which Nashville‑area neighborhoods may qualify for USDA and where VA buyers have success

• Lender Connections: Trusted relationships with local lenders experienced in zero‑down programs

• First‑Time Buyer Guidance: Step‑by‑step support from pre‑approval to closing day

Final Thoughts

You may not need a huge pile of savings to buy your first home in Nashville. By exploring VA, USDA, and local down payment assistance programs, you could own a home sooner than you think — possibly with zero down.

Call to Action

If you want to know whether you qualify for a zero‑down mortgage in Nashville, reach out to Nik Shewmaker REALTOR today. Nik will connect you with trusted local lenders, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.

Nik Shewmaker (NashvillesNik)

📲 Call or text (615) 585-0022

📧 Email: Nashvillesnik@gmail.com

🌐 Visit: www.NashvillesNik.com