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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Kentucky mortgage video guide thumbnail
▶ 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 →

Kentucky Homebuyers Guide 2026: How to Get Approved with Little to No Money Down

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Joel Lobb, Mortgage Broker FHA, VA, KHC, USDA
Mortgage Broker – FHA, VA, USDA, KHC

How to Buy a Home in Kentucky with Little to No Money Down

Compare FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC loan options. See which program fits your credit, income, military status, and property location so you can reduce cash to close and get pre-approved the right way.

FHA
• 580+ can qualify with 3.5% down
• Flexible credit guidelines
• Can pair with assistance
VA
• $0 down payment
• No monthly mortgage insurance
• For eligible veterans
USDA
• $0 down payment
• Rural property eligibility
• Income limits apply
KHC
• Up to $12,500 assistance
• Helps with cash to close
• Program limits apply
Most buyers do not need more money — they need a better strategy.
The right loan structure can lower your out-of-pocket costs, maximize seller-paid closing costs, and match you with the best mortgage program available.
Start Your Pre-Approval
Call / Text 502-905-3708
Joel Lobb, Mortgage Broker FHA, VA, KHC, USDA
EVO Mortgage • Individual NMLS #57916 • Company NMLS #1738461
Equal Housing Lender • Licensed in Kentucky only • Not affiliated with FHA, VA, USDA, KHC, HUD, or any government agency.
This is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines.


Kentucky Homebuyers Guide 2026: How to Get Approved with Little to No Money Down

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