Buying a home as a freelancer: What you need to know.
Nashville is a creative’s city—from songwriters and photographers to coders and consultants—and more people than ever are working for themselves. But when it comes to buying a home as a freelancer, the process can feel a little... extra. Don’t worry—it’s not impossible. It just requires a little more preparation, the right team, and a lender who “gets it.”
Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or just went full-time, here’s what you need to know about buying a home in Music City.
🧾 1. Your Income Story Matters
Unlike W-2 employees who flash a couple pay stubs, freelancers need to prove their income with:
Two years of tax returns (Schedule C or K-1s, depending on your setup)
Profit & loss statements (your CPA can help here)
Bank statements showing consistent deposits
✅ Pro tip: Show you’ve been profitable and stable for 24+ months. If your income dipped during COVID but rebounded, many lenders will make exceptions—they just need the full picture.
🏦 2. Choose a Freelancer-Friendly Lender
Not all lenders are used to non-traditional income. We recommend working with local lenders in Nashville who regularly help musicians, stylists, and creatives get into homes. These folks know how to read 1099s, evaluate business deductions, and make your case to underwriting.
We’re happy to introduce you to lenders who understand the gig economy—and don’t blink at a six-job resume.
💳 3. Credit & Cash Still Count
Strong credit and a solid down payment can help offset freelance unpredictability. Keep these in mind:
Aim for a credit score of 680+
Save for at least 10–20% down (though options exist for less!)
Reduce other debt where possible—it impacts your debt-to-income ratio, even if you’re self-employed
🏘️ 4. Know Your Options: Loan Programs for Self-Employed Buyers
You may qualify for:
Conventional loans with good credit and income history
Bank statement loans, where lenders look at deposits instead of tax returns
FHA loans, which allow lower down payments but have more requirements
Having an agent (🙋🏻♀️ hi!) who’s familiar with these options is key to finding the right fit.
📍 5. Nashville’s Creative Neighborhoods Are Calling
Whether you want a fixer-upper in Inglewood, a bungalow in East Nashville, or a sleek condo in Wedgewood-Houston, there are neighborhoods that align with creative lifestyles and your budget. We can help you match your home search to your income and long-term goals.
🎯 What it All Means
Buying a home as a freelancer isn’t harder—it’s just different. With the right prep and team (hello!), you can land a home that works as hard as you do. We’ve helped other creatives do just that, and we’d love to help you too.
Curious what you’d qualify for—or just starting to dream? Let’s chat.
