FAQ
Straight answers to real questions
If yours isn’t here, text it. There are no dumb questions in this process — only expensive assumptions.
Working with Autumn
Where is Autumn licensed, and where does she lend?
Autumn is licensed in Tennessee (NMLS #186389) and works out of Fairway Home Mortgage’s Knoxville office at 906 Sevier Avenue, Suite 118. Most of her clients are in Knox, Blount, Sevier, Loudon, Jefferson and Anderson counties, but she lends anywhere in the state.
What’s the best way to reach her?
Text 865-454-1882. It’s the fastest way to get a real answer, usually the same day. Email (autumn.lane@fairwaymc.com) and the office line (865-263-7871) work too.
What does “Branch Manager” mean for me?
It means the person you text is also the person responsible for the whole team handling your file. There is no one to escalate to because you’re already talking to her.
Autumn is a Certified Divorce Lending Professional. What is that?
A CDLP® has specialized training in how mortgage financing works during and after a divorce — refinancing to remove a spouse, qualifying on support income, timing a purchase around a settlement. If a life change is part of your move, Autumn can coordinate with your attorney and keep the financing from becoming the hard part.
Does it cost anything to talk to her?
No. A conversation, a pre-approval and a payment estimate are free. You only pay lender costs if you close a loan, and those are disclosed in writing before you commit.
The money
How much do I need for a down payment?
As little as 0% (VA, USDA), 3% (conventional first-time buyer programs) or 3.5% (FHA). Twenty percent is about avoiding mortgage insurance, not about getting approved.
Can I get down payment assistance in Tennessee?
Often, yes. THDA Great Choice Plus covers down payment and closing costs for buyers under county income and price limits who complete a homebuyer education course. Autumn checks eligibility in one conversation.
What credit score do I need?
Several programs start in the low-to-mid 600s; FHA goes lower. Score affects your rate more than your approval. If you’re not there yet, Autumn can tell you exactly what moves the needle.
Should I pay points to lower my rate?
Sometimes. It depends on how long you’ll keep the loan. Autumn runs the break-even math — if you’d move or refinance before you recoup the cost, she’ll tell you to skip it.
What about refinancing?
When the math works — lower payment, dropping PMI, shortening the term, consolidating debt — Autumn will show you. When it doesn’t, she’ll say so. Refinancing exists to help you, not to generate a loan.
Timing
Should I wait for rates to come down?
Nobody can time rates. The better question is whether the payment on a house you like fits your budget today. If it does, buy and refinance later if rates improve. Rent never refinances.
How long does a pre-approval take?
Usually within a day of receiving your documents. Autumn reviews files up front the way an underwriter would, so the letter holds up when you make an offer.
How long from contract to closing?
About 30 days is typical for Autumn’s team in East Tennessee; faster is possible when appraisal and title cooperate. You get a written timeline the day you go under contract.
I’m selling and buying at the same time. Is that doable?
Yes, and it’s one of the things Autumn’s repeat clients praise her for. There are several ways to structure it — contingent offers, bridge options, timing the closings — and she’ll walk you through the one that fits.
Have a question? Just ask Autumn.
No pressure, no jargon, no obligation — just a straight answer from someone who’s been doing this since 2002. Text, call, or apply whenever you’re ready.