Homebuyer Homework for Tennessee Teachers and Heroes
Updated: 6 days ago
A THDA update, a few useful questions, and a place to start
By Gretchen Moore, REALTOR® | Elam Real Estate
Tennessee teachers have an expanded home loan option to explore, alongside the military and public-safety groups already included in THDA's Homeownership for Heroes program. If homebuying has been sitting on your to-do list, a few useful questions can help you get started.
On May 5, 2026, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency announced that its Homeownership for Heroes program was expanding to include full-time classroom teachers. THDA's current program information identifies full-time K–12 teachers employed in Tennessee public or private schools as an eligible occupational group. The program offers a reduced interest rate on qualifying Great Choice home loans.
Other eligible groups include active-duty military, veterans, National Guard, reservists, firefighters, EMTs/paramedics, and state and local law enforcement officers. A THDA-approved participating lender must confirm each borrower’s occupational eligibility and applicable program and loan requirements.
Sources: THDA Great Choice and Homeownership for Heroes • THDA Homeownership for Heroes lender notice
The useful next question is: how might that fit your situation?
Photo: Prophsee Journals / @aldavasco on Unsplash
Start with the questions that matter
A THDA-approved participating lender can review your employment, household income, credit, homebuying history, and the property you hope to purchase. Occupational eligibility alone does not establish loan eligibility. Teacher status does not waive the program's first-time-homebuyer requirements. Exceptions may apply, and the lender should confirm which rules apply to you.
Bring the questions you actually have. What would the full monthly housing payment look like? How much cash would you need at closing? What costs should you plan for after move-in? How would this option compare with other loans available to you?
You don't need a perfectly organized binder to begin. A short list in your phone works beautifully. Before sharing financial documents, ask the lender which records are needed and how to submit them securely.
Give assistance its own page
You may also want to ask about down payment or closing cost assistance. THDA's Great Choice Plus assistance is structured as a second mortgage, with terms that depend on the option. Ask about payments, repayment triggers, and what happens if you sell or refinance. Review those details alongside the first mortgage so you understand the whole arrangement.
Sources: THDA down-payment assistance
THDA-approved homebuyer education is part of the loan process. Ask your lender about the required course and when to complete it.
Sources: THDA homebuyer education FAQs
Photo: Kevin Lieder / Unsplash. Editorial inspiration; not a property listing.
Where I come in
As your REALTOR®, I can help you work through the home search, compare properties against your priorities, and understand the steps from making an offer to closing. A participating lender handles the loan questions, current terms, and eligibility review.
Think about the home you would actually enjoy coming back to: the commute, the space you need, and the upkeep you want to take on. Those details belong in the conversation, too. A useful homebuying plan leaves room for your real life.
Have questions about your next step?
Teachers and all the other eligible Hero groups are welcome to request homebuyer details here. Complete the contact form with your name, email, and phone number so I can follow up with you. Whether you're actively looking or collecting questions for later, that's a simple way to start the conversation.
Not in one of these groups? Reach out to explore other homebuying options.
Gretchen Moore, REALTOR® | Elam Real Estate Direct: 931-773-8561 | Office: 615-890-1222 gretchen.moore@elamre.com
Educational information only; not a loan offer or approval. Program terms can change. A THDA-approved participating lender must confirm current occupational, borrower, loan, and property eligibility and terms. Gretchen Moore is a REALTOR®, not a mortgage lender.
Image credits
Cover: Gretchen entryway portrait with licensed editorial home photography. Journal: Prophsee Journals / Unsplash. Living room: Kevin Lieder / Unsplash. Licensed under the Unsplash License.
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