Every Kentucky Loan Type. One Local Expert.
Whether you’re buying your first home, using down payment assistance, or rebuilding credit — there’s a program that fits. Compare them side by side before you commit.

🏠 FHA Loan

The go-to for first-time buyers and 580+ credit. Low down payment and flexible guidelines.

3.5% down · 580+ creditLearn More →

🎖 VA Loan

Zero down and no monthly mortgage insurance for veterans and active-duty service members.

$0 down · VA eligibleLearn More →

🌾 USDA Loan

100% financing for eligible rural and suburban Kentucky buyers within income limits.

$0 down · USDA areasLearn More →

🏛 KHC Assistance

Kentucky Housing down payment assistance for first-time and repeat buyers.

Up to $12,500 assistanceLearn More →

📈 Conventional

Best long-term value for stronger credit. PMI cancels at 20% equity, unlike FHA.

3% down · 620+ creditLearn More →

💰 Zero Down Options

Every route to buying with nothing down in Kentucky — VA, USDA, and KHC combos.

$0 down programsLearn More →

🌟 First-Time Buyers

All Kentucky first-time homebuyer programs compared in plain English.

Programs & grantsLearn More →

📊 Credit Scores

What score you actually need for each loan type in 2026 — and how to raise yours.

By loan programLearn More →

Kentucky Home Inspection vs. Appraisal: Key Differences

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By Joel Lobb, Mortgage Loan Officer · NMLS #57916 · Updated September 12, 2026 The difference between a Kentucky home inspection and a Kentucky appraisal is their purpose: an inspection evaluates the home's condition, while an appraisal estimates its market value for the mortgage process. One does not replace the other. A homebuyer's two questions: What needs attention, and what is the property worth? Buying in Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, or elsewhere in Kentucky? Before paying for inspections and appraisal services, understand who orders each report, what it covers, and how the results may affect your purchase. In this guide Comparison Inspection checklist Appraisal process Costs and timing Video FAQs Kentucky home inspection vs. appraisal: the difference HOME INSPECTION Condition What needs attention? Roof · Foundation · Plumbing Electrical · Heating and cooling Usually arranged by: the buyer Result: an inspection report Next step: review repairs and f...
Getting a Kentucky Mortgage in 3 Simple Steps
No confusing paperwork trails. No surprise fees. A clear path from first call to keys in hand.
01

💬 Get Pre-Qualified

Free application review with same-day answers. We look at your credit, income, and goals — no cost, no obligation, no pressure.

02

📋 Compare Your Options

FHA vs. Conventional vs. USDA vs. KHC — run side by side with your actual numbers so you see the real payment before you commit.

03

🏠 Close & Get Your Keys

Guided from contract to closing — appraisal, title, and underwriting coordinated so you always know what happens next.

Watch: Kentucky Mortgage Guides
Straight answers from my YouTube channel — no jargon, no sales pitch.
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▶ More videos on my YouTube channel →
Joel Lobb and family - Kentucky mortgage loan officer
Kentucky Local. Not a Call Center.

Hi, I’m Joel Lobb — a Kentucky dad who’s spent 20+ years helping families across all 120 counties buy their first home. When you call, you get me — not a phone tree. Questions on a Saturday morning? I answer.

1,300+ Kentucky families have trusted me with their mortgage — from Louisville to Lexington to the smallest towns in the state. Free application reviews, same-day pre-approvals, and honest answers about what you actually qualify for.

See What You Qualify For →

What are the requirements to buy a house in Kentucky in 2023?

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Credit Score and Income Requirements to Buy a Home in Kentucky in 2023




Credit Score and Income Requirements to Buy a Home in Kentucky in 2023

KENTUCKY CONVENTIONAL

Get your fixed interest rates for eligible buyers.620 minimum credit score
3% down payment 
4-7 years removed from Bankruptcy Depending of if Chapter 7 or 13 
Max Loan is $647,200  in Kentucky
2 Year work history but does not have to be same job



Credit Score and Income Requirements to Buy a Home in Kentucky in 2023

KENTUCKY FHA MORTGAGES

Government-backed loans with flexible guidelines.
500 minimum credit score with 10% down payment
3.5% down payment with 580 credit score
2 years removed from bankruptcy
Can be combined with down payment grants for $0 down payment
Max loan for FHA in Kentucky is $420,680
2 year work history with no gaps over 6 months


Credit Score and Income Requirements to Buy a Home in Kentucky in 2023

KENTUCKY USDA MORTGAGES

Government-backed loans with flexible guidelines.
Zero Down Payment
No Minimum Credit Score, 640 is preferred with most USDA Kentucky Lenders
3 years removed from Bankruptcy
Max Income and Property Map Eligibility Requirements
2 year work history with no gaps over 60 days



Credit Score and Income Requirements to Buy a Home in Kentucky in 2023

KENTUCKY VA MORTGAGES

Government-backed loans for those who’ve served our nation.
Zero Down Payment Loan
No minimum credit score, 580 and higher is preferred with most VA lenders in KY with some wanting a 620
2 years removed from bankruptcy
Active Duty --like to see a least a year left in service or 6 months reserves and a job relatable


Have Questions or Need Expert Advice? Text, email, or call me below:





Joel Lobb
Mortgage Loan Officer
Individual NMLS ID #57916


American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.
10602 Timberwood Circle
Louisville, KY 40223
Company NMLS ID #1364



Text/call: 502-905-3708
fax: 502-327-9119
email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com

http://www.mylouisvillekentuckymortgage.com/

The view and opinions stated on this website belong solely to the authors, and are intended for informational purposes only. The posted information does not guarantee approval, nor does it comprise full underwriting guidelines. This does not represent being part of a government agency. The views expressed on this post are mine and do not necessarily reflect the view of my employer. Not all products or services mentioned on this site may fit all people.
NMLS ID# 57916, (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).


Location: 10602 Timberwood Cir #3, Louisville, KY 40223, USA

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