Purchasing a home is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your financial journey, and sometimes getting started can be the hardest part. Hefty closing costs and down payments can turn many away from their dreams of owning a home. Luckily, Ascend has great mortgage programs that can make it easier to turn your homeownership dreams into reality. Plus, our personalized service extends beyond closing. Except for our FHA and VA loans, we currently keep mortgage servicing in-house. That means if you have a question about your loan payment, balance, escrow, etc., our local staff is here to assist you. Read more about our specialized mortgage programs below, all of which require little to no down payment:

First-Time Homebuyer Program
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone and Ascend is here to make the process easier than ever. Our First-Time Homebuyer program offers both fixed and adjustable-rate mortgages and does not require a down payment. In some cases, you may also be able to finance part of your closing costs, reducing the upfront financial burden.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts up to 102%* of the sales price

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) required

• Loan amounts up to $475,000

• No income limitations

• Borrower must contribute at least $500 of their own funds toward the transaction

• No loan origination fee**

Local Heroes Mortgage Loan
Our Local Heroes Mortgage Loan is specifically designed for professionals who serve others every day. If you’re a teacher, firefighter, police officer, EMT, nurse (LPN, RN, NP), physician’s assistant, or paramedic, you may qualify for this program. With both 30-year fixed and 5/5 ARM options, you can buy your home with as little as zero down payment and secure a mortgage that fits your financial situation.

Key Features:

• Loan amounts up to 100%* of the sales price

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) required

• Loan amounts up to current conforming loan limits

• Borrower must contributeat least 1% of the transaction cost from their own funds

• No loan origination fee**

Physician’s Mortgage Loan
Our Physician’s Mortgage Loan is designed specifically for physicians, dentists, and veterinarians. To qualify, you must have received a doctorate degree (M.D., D.O., D.D.S., or D.V.M.) in the last 10 years. You must also be employed or begin employment within 60 days of the time of closing. With this program, you can purchase your dream home with as little as zero down payment, whether you choose a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage or a 5/5 adjustable-rate mortgage.

Key Features:

• Must not own any other real estate at the time of closing

• Primary Residents only

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) required

• Loan amounts up to 100%* of the sales price

• Laon amounts up to current conforming loan limits

• No loan origination fee**

For all the above loan types, only single-family homes and condominiums/townhomes are allowed. No manufactured/modular/mobile homes permitted. Applicants with no credit score may be eligible with acceptable alternative credit.

Ascend prides itself on putting the needs of our Middle Tennessee communities first. Now more than ever, the individuals who are looking to buy their first home, the professionals who keep us safe and healthy, and those who educate our future leaders deserve a financial institution that will not only help them purchase a home but help them stay there as well.

With over 70 years of trusted service in Middle Tennessee, we’re committed to finding a mortgage solution that fits your financial goals. Before you apply for a mortgage, check out our tips on improving your credit score.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards homeownership, email us at mortgages@ascend.org or call 931-454-1300. Or, start your application online at ascend.org.

*Restrictions apply. Contact an Ascend Mortgage Loan Officer for complete details.

**Normal closing costs apply.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS#451452. All loans are subject to credit approval.

We do business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Laws and the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.