Why choose us
Why Homebuyers Choose Our Mortgage Lender
Choosing a mortgage lender is about more than a rate sheet. Borrowers pick The Smith Mortgage Group for a dedicated loan advisor, no lender fees on VA loans through FCM, a broad program lineup and the ability to lend in all 50 states from our Shelbyville, TN branch.
The difference
What Sets Us Apart
A Dedicated Advisor
Your loan is guided by a person who knows your goals, not a chatbot or a rotating call center. Meet that person on our team page.
A Signature Benefit for Veterans
Through FCM, eligible veterans and service members pay no lender fees on VA loans, so more of the benefit stays with them.
Learn more →Quick Decisions
Pre-approval decisions can arrive in as little as 24 hours, with same-day options for complete files.
The Right Tool for the Job
Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, construction, DSCR and Non-QM programs give us room to fit unusual situations.
Learn more →Clear Costs
Pricing is laid out from the first quote to the final figures so you can budget without guesswork.
Shelbyville Roots, National Reach
A Tennessee branch with the licensing to originate in every state and more than 250 metro service areas.
Learn more →What to expect
Our Commitments at Each Stage
Good intentions are easy to promise. Here is what working with us looks like in practice, stage by stage.
| Stage | What you can count on |
|---|---|
| First contact | A reply within 2 business hours by phone, text or email |
| Pre-qualification | No hard credit pull to find out where you stand |
| Pre-approval | A decision in as little as 24 hours once documents are in |
| Program selection | Side-by-side options explained in plain language |
| Closing | Most loans close in 30–45 days; qualified files can close in 21 |
Timelines depend on appraisal scheduling, document completeness and underwriting. The process timeline explains each phase.
The short version
Reasons Clients Keep Coming Back
- Education-first guidance with no pressure, so you move when you are ready
- Programs designed for first-time buyers, veterans, self-employed borrowers and investors
- Competitive rates with costs explained up front
- A team that picks up the phone and returns messages promptly
- One relationship that can carry over to a refinance or your next purchase
Ready to see your numbers? Begin with a free pre-qualification.
How to compare
Tips for Comparing Any Two Lenders
When you gather quotes, compare them on the same day and for the same loan amount, term and lock period. Look past the headline rate to the points, lender credits and third-party fees listed on each Loan Estimate, since those can change the true cost considerably.
Ask each lender who will handle your file after the application and how quickly they respond. Our loan comparison tool and rates and terms finder can help you weigh offers objectively, including ours.
Choosing a lender
Questions to Ask Before You Pick a Lender
Does a local lender matter if I can apply online anywhere?
It can. A smaller branch usually means one consistent contact and faster answers. Because we are licensed in all 50 states, you get that personal attention even if you live far from Tennessee.
What does no lender fees on VA loans actually cover?
Through FCM, the lender's own fees are not charged on VA loans. Third-party costs such as appraisal, title and government charges can still apply, and we itemize them for you early.
Will shopping around hurt my credit?
Pre-qualifying with us involves no hard inquiry. When you move to full pre-approval, credit scoring models generally treat several mortgage inquiries within a short window as one, but ask each lender how they pull credit.
What if my situation is complicated?
Self-employment, rental income, past credit setbacks or alternative documentation do not automatically rule you out. Our specialized mortgage programs exist for those cases, subject to underwriting.
See the Difference for Yourself
A free, no-obligation consultation with Sterling Smith takes no hard credit pull. Call or text 931-205-9873 to start.
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Let's Talk
Questions about choose a mortgage lender?
Send a quick note and Sterling Smith will reply within two business hours (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm CT). Prefer to talk now? Call or text 931-205-9873.
Loading the secure contact form… If it doesn't appear, call or text 931-205-9873 or email sterling.smith@fcmhomeloans.com.
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Ready to talk through your options?
Get a free, no-obligation consultation with Sterling Smith: clear answers, a side-by-side look at the programs you qualify for, and a plan built around your budget.