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  1. United States
  2. Best Mortgage Brokers
  3. Mortgage Brokers in Tennessee
  4. Chattanooga
  5. Mortgage Affordability Calculator
1 · Your income
2 · Down payment
3 · What you can afford
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Mortgage Affordability Calculator Chattanooga, TN

How much house can you afford in Chattanooga? See your maximum price, monthly payment and pre-approval estimate. Free, instant, no credit check.

Updated · current rates and lending limits

Add your partner's income if you're buying together.

Car loans, credit cards, lines of credit, student loans. Not rent.

Property tax are for this state.

An estimate, not a mortgage approval or pre-approval. A mortgage broker confirms your real number.

Top-rated mortgage brokers in Chattanooga

Ranked by TrustAnalytica from verified reviews · see the full Top 10 list →

1

HomeRate Mortgage

About HomeRate MortgageHomeRate Mortgage, with offices in Chattanooga, TN, is a mortgage lending company dedicated to helping clients save money on their home loans. Founded by Ben Phillips and Eric Bradshaw, the company emphasizes a customer-centric approach, aiming to build lasting relationships by providing excellent service. They specialize in helping clients find the best rates and offer… more...

About HomeRate MortgageHomeRate Mortgage, with offices in Chattanooga, TN, is a mortgage lending company dedicated to helping clients save money on their home loans. Founded by Ben Phillips and Eric Bradshaw, the company emphasizes a customer-centric approach, aiming to build lasting relationships by providing excellent service. They specialize in helping clients find the best rates and offer programs like the EZ Home Refinance, which has helped clients save significantly on their monthly payments and over the lifetime of their mortgages. With over 20 years of local experience, HomeRate Mortgage prides itself on its expertise and commitment to client satisfaction, ensuring that individuals can trust them to secure the best possible home loan.Why Choose HomeRate Mortgage?HomeRate Mortgage stands out due to its strong commitment to client savings, with many clients reportedly saving up to $350 per month. They also prioritize fast closings, often completing the process within 30 days for most clients. Their team of mortgage experts possesses over 20 years of local experience and in-depth knowledge of the mortgage market, ensuring clients receive approved loans efficiently. The company operates with a philosophy that the best business practices are those that benefit the customer the most, fostering a sense of partnership and trust.HomeRate Mortgage OffersHomeRate Mortgage offers a comprehensive suite of mortgage services designed to meet diverse client needs. They provide services for home purchases, refinancing, reverse mortgages, and VA loans. Their offerings include conventional loans, FHA loans, jumbo loans, VA loans, and USDA loans for purchases. For refinances, they offer cash-out refinances, FHA refinances, streamline refinances, VA refinances, and jumbo refinances. The company also assists first-time homebuyers by helping them navigate and utilize various available programs to maximize savings. They provide quick mortgage quotes, typically within one business day, and guide clients through a streamlined, hassle-free process from application to closing.Unique AdvantagesHomeRate Mortgage distinguishes itself through its significant client savings, with many clients saving up to $350 monthly. They are known for their rapid closing times, often achieving closings within 30 days. With over two decades of local market experience, their team offers proven expertise in securing loan approvals. They also highlight their commitment to educating clients about their loan terms and conditions, ensuring transparency and peace of mind throughout the mortgage process.

View Profile
(423) 805-9100
Open 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
7506 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421
2

Casey Bryant Mortgage Team #NMLS 1670270 — Benchmark Home Loans

Known for a genuine and approachable experience, Casey Bryant Mortgage Team #NMLS 1670270 at Benchmark Home Loans specializes in guiding clients through mortgage and VA loan processes. The team is responsive and professional, helping make home financing straightforward and low stress, with clients appreciating their clear communication and friendly support.

Services & Prices
Conventional Loans Quoted per loan
VA Loans Quoted per loan
Investment Property Loans Quoted per loan
View Profile
(423) 565-8830
Open 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
1937 Dayton Blvd, Chattanooga, TN 37415
General Services
Mortgage Lending
3

Highlands Residential Mortgage

Known for closing loans in under 30 days, Highlands Residential Mortgage combines local market expertise with a wide range of loan programs to support both first-time buyers and experienced homeowners. Their team balances technology and personal service, keeping clients informed with clear communication and timely updates throughout the process.

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(423) 624-0448
Closed Now
6576 E Brainerd Rd a, Chattanooga, TN 37421
4

The Gabe Whitmer Team, FirstBank Mortgage, NMLS# 1427791

Licensed under NMLS# 1427791, The Gabe Whitmer Team at FirstBank Mortgage specializes in personalized home financing with a focus on clear communication and education, especially for first-time buyers. Their services include home purchase loans, refinancing, and tailored mortgage programs, supported by a streamlined digital application process. Clients appreciate their responsiveness and guidance… more...

Licensed under NMLS# 1427791, The Gabe Whitmer Team at FirstBank Mortgage specializes in personalized home financing with a focus on clear communication and education, especially for first-time buyers. Their services include home purchase loans, refinancing, and tailored mortgage programs, supported by a streamlined digital application process. Clients appreciate their responsiveness and guidance throughout the loan journey.

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(423) 308-2207
Closed Now
201 W Main St #105, Chattanooga, TN 37408
5

Christina Lane

Movement Mortgage operates as an Impact Lender, dedicating a portion of its profits to community development while offering personalized mortgage guidance. The team assists with home buying and refinancing, using online calculators to help clients understand their options. Customers appreciate the clear communication and support throughout the mortgage process.

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(423) 618-4867
Closed Now
1830 Washington St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
Where they are 10 on the map Click a pin for the profile and directions
6

The J Lending Team – Highlands Residential Mortgage

The J Lending Team – Highlands Residential Mortgage offers clear, upfront information and a user-friendly digital portal that simplifies the mortgage process. Their team handles loan details efficiently, keeping communication open and helping clients close on time. Customers appreciate the smooth experience and responsive support throughout.

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(865) 712-0352
Closed Now
6576 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421
7

Chatt Mortgage

ChattMortgage focuses on simplifying the home loan process by comparing offers from multiple lenders to help clients find competitive rates. They assist with buying new homes and refinancing, offering guidance through pre-qualification and budgeting. Customers appreciate the team’s clear communication and ease throughout each step.

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(423) 591-9801
Closed Now
6650 E Brainerd Rd Suite 208, Chattanooga, TN 37421
8

Mortgage Investors Group

Mortgage Investors Group specializes in personalized home financing with a focus on building lasting client relationships through a family-like approach. They offer a wide range of loan products including conventional, FHA, VA, and specialized programs for first-time buyers and rural homebuyers. Customers appreciate their knowledgeable team and clear communication, though some note occasional… more...

Mortgage Investors Group specializes in personalized home financing with a focus on building lasting client relationships through a family-like approach. They offer a wide range of loan products including conventional, FHA, VA, and specialized programs for first-time buyers and rural homebuyers. Customers appreciate their knowledgeable team and clear communication, though some note occasional delays in processing.

View Profile
(423) 899-2887
Closed Now
6221 Shallowford Rd #104, Chattanooga, TN 37421
9

Cheryl Owens

Known for clear communication and consistent updates, this mortgage broker team guides clients through the home buying process with care and professionalism. They assist with loan options and paperwork, helping to navigate challenges along the way. Customers appreciate their thoroughness and supportive approach throughout each transaction.

Services & Prices
Fixed Rate Mortgages Quoted per loan
Adjustable Rate Mortgages Quoted per loan
VA Loans Quoted per loan
View Profile
(423) 504-9962
Closed Now
1813 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37408
General Services
Mortgage Services
10

Mortgage South

About Mortgage SouthMortgage South stands as Tennessee's oldest locally owned mortgage broker and a leading reverse mortgage lender, with a history dating back to 1986. They pioneered and originated the first reverse mortgage in Tennessee in 1993, establishing themselves as a trusted authority in the field. Serving homeowners aged 62 and older across North Georgia, Chattanooga, Nashville… more...

About Mortgage SouthMortgage South stands as Tennessee's oldest locally owned mortgage broker and a leading reverse mortgage lender, with a history dating back to 1986. They pioneered and originated the first reverse mortgage in Tennessee in 1993, establishing themselves as a trusted authority in the field. Serving homeowners aged 62 and older across North Georgia, Chattanooga, Nashville, Knoxville, and surrounding areas, Mortgage South empowers clients to leverage their home equity for various retirement goals. These include generating extra income, covering long-term care expenses, funding home improvements, or enhancing their overall retirement lifestyle. Their deep expertise and commitment to client success have solidified their position as the premier and most reliable reverse mortgage lender in Tennessee and North Georgia.Why Choose Mortgage SouthMortgage South boasts an impressive track record, being a BBB Accredited Business for over 35 years and a recipient of the BBB Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics. They are affiliated with reputable industry organizations such as the Tennessee Mortgage Bankers Association (TNMBA) and the National Mortgage Bankers Association (NMBA), underscoring their commitment to professionalism and ethical practices. Their long-standing presence and numerous accolades serve as strong indicators of their reliability and dedication to serving their clients with integrity.Mortgage South OffersMortgage South specializes in reverse mortgages, offering solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of retirees. Their services are categorized to address key life areas: Refinance options include consolidating debt and paying off existing home equity lines of credit. Purchase assistance helps clients right-size their homes or relocate closer to family. Healthcare support enables payment for in-home care or high-cost prescriptions. For retirement, their offerings help supplement cash flow and facilitate travel. They guide clients through the process of utilizing their home equity to achieve financial flexibility and improve their quality of life during retirement.Unique AdvantagesMortgage South holds the distinction of being Tennessee's oldest locally owned mortgage broker and the state's leading reverse mortgage lender since 1986. They originated the very first reverse mortgage in Tennessee in 1993. Their extensive experience and specialized focus on reverse mortgages make them a uniquely qualified partner for seniors seeking to utilize their home equity.

View Profile
(423) 624-3878
Closed Now
6576 E Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421

Chattanooga Mortgage Statistics

Home-purchase lending in Hamilton County and home costs in Chattanooga, TN (latest HMDA and Census data)

Lenders made 5,040 home-purchase loans in Hamilton County in 2025 (average about $363,000) and denied 628 — 11% of decided applications, compared with 15% across Tennessee, according to federal mortgage data (HMDA, CFPB). In Chattanooga, the median home is worth $283,200 and 59% of owners have a mortgage, paying a median $1,564 a month (Census ACS 2020–2024).

Home-purchase loans, 2025
5,0400%5,032 in 2024
Denial rate
11%TN 15%
Median home value
$283,200TN $286,700
Monthly cost with a mortgage
$1,564median · TN $1,566
Refinance loans made (Hamilton County, 2025)
2,907 · 2,192 in 2024
Home-improvement loans made (2025)
904
Average home-purchase loan
$363,000 (TN $375,000)
Owners with a mortgage
59% · 22% of them spend 30%+ of income on housing
Median household income
$64,523 (TN $69,595)

Source: CFPB / FFIEC Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data, 2024–2025 loan applications in Hamilton County (originated vs denied); home values and costs: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2020–2024. Compiled by TrustAnalytica.

Chattanooga Mortgage Brokers stats: 10 businesses compared side by side · updated
# Business Rating Reviews Starting price Phone Website
1 HomeRate Mortgage 4.7 500 — (423) 805-9100 Visit
2 Casey Bryant Mortgage Team #NMLS 1670270 — Benchmark Home Loans 5.0 329 Quoted per loan (423) 565-8830 Visit
3 Highlands Residential Mortgage 5.0 231 — (423) 624-0448 Visit
4 The Gabe Whitmer Team, FirstBank Mortgage, NMLS# 1427791 5.0 186 — (423) 308-2207 Visit
5 Christina Lane 4.9 173 — (423) 618-4867 Visit
6 The J Lending Team – Highlands Residential Mortgage 5.0 146 — (865) 712-0352 Visit
7 Chatt Mortgage 4.9 139 — (423) 591-9801 Visit
8 Mortgage Investors Group 4.7 78 — (423) 899-2887 Visit
9 Cheryl Owens 5.0 63 Quoted per loan (423) 504-9962 Visit
10 Mortgage South 4.9 52 — (423) 624-3878 Visit

How this Chattanooga mortgage affordability calculator works

Lenders look at your debt-to-income ratio. Housing costs (principal and interest, property tax, homeowners insurance and mortgage insurance) should stay under about 31% of your gross monthly income, and housing plus your other monthly debts under 43%. The calculator finds the highest home price that passes both tests with your down payment, on a 30-year fixed loan.

Tennessee rules and numbers this calculator uses

Debt-to-income
31% for housing and 43% total, the FHA standard and the long-time Qualified Mortgage limit. Some conventional loans go higher with strong credit and savings.
Down payment
At least 3% on a conventional first-time buyer loan (3.5% on FHA). Under 20% down, private mortgage insurance of about 0.6% of the loan a year is added to the payment.
Property tax
About 0.46% of the home's value a year, the Tennessee average for owner-occupied homes (2024 Census ACS).
Insurance
Homeowners insurance assumed at $150 a month; it varies a lot by home and location.
Rate
Starts at 7.40% (Freddie Mac 30-year average, October 2026). Change it to the rate you have been quoted.

An estimate, not a mortgage approval or pre-approval. Your credit, income type, the property and the lender all change the answer; a mortgage broker confirms your real number. Sources: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey (October 2026), U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2024 property tax data, FHA and CFPB debt-to-income guidance.

Frequently asked questions

10 questions
How does the mortgage affordability calculator work?
It estimates the highest home price you can qualify for based on your income, debts, down payment, and interest rate, including PMI and property tax.
What is the debt-to-income ratio for mortgages in Tennessee?
Lenders generally cap housing costs at 31% and total debt payments at 43% of gross monthly income, following FHA standards.
What's the minimum down payment for a mortgage in Chattanooga?
First-time buyers can put down as little as 3% on conventional loans or 3.5% on FHA loans. VA and USDA loans may allow 0% down.
How does PMI affect my mortgage in Tennessee?
If your down payment is under 20%, PMI is added, roughly 0.6% of the loan annually. It can usually be removed once the loan balance is below 80% of the home's value.
How do interest rates change what I can afford?
Higher rates increase monthly payments, reducing the home price you can qualify for. Rates start at 7.40% as of October 2026.
How do existing debts affect my mortgage eligibility?
Existing debts reduce the amount you can borrow since total debt payments should not exceed 43% of your gross monthly income.
What is the property tax rate in Chattanooga?
Tennessee's property tax is about 0.46% of the home's value annually, based on 2024 averages for owner-occupied homes.
What's the difference between pre-approval and pre-qualification?
Pre-approval involves lender verification of income, debts, and credit, providing a more accurate borrowing limit than pre-qualification.
How much house can I afford on a $100k salary in Tennessee?
The calculator estimates affordability considering income, debts, down payment, and interest rate. Exact amounts depend on specific financial details.
What does a mortgage broker do in Chattanooga?
A mortgage broker helps find loan options and guides you through the mortgage process, but they don't lend money themselves.

General information, not financial advice — consult a qualified professional.