FAQ
Questions people actually ask
Straight answers, no hedging. If yours isn’t here, text it — that’s what Jerri-Lynn is for.
Working with Jerri-Lynn
Where is Jerri-Lynn located and where can she lend?
Jerri-Lynn works out of New American Funding’s Brentwood, Tennessee branch at 555 Church St. E, Ste 101, Brentwood, TN 37027, and is licensed to originate mortgages in Tennessee. She serves buyers throughout Williamson County, Nashville, and Middle Tennessee.
What is the best way to reach Jerri-Lynn?
Text is fastest: (314) 402-3858. Calls and email (JerriLynn.Sparling@Nafinc.com) work too. There are no contact forms on this site by design — you reach a person, not an inbox.
Does it cost anything to talk to Jerri-Lynn or get pre-approved?
No. Conversations, scenarios, and pre-approvals are free. Lender fees only come into play when you actually close on a loan, and every one of them is itemized on your Loan Estimate.
Does this website collect my information?
No. There are no forms, no analytics, no cookies, and no trackers on this site. When you’re ready to apply, the Apply button takes you to New American Funding’s secure application, governed by NAF’s privacy policy.
Is Jerri-Lynn a broker or a direct lender?
New American Funding is a direct lender — the loan is underwritten, funded, and often serviced in-house. That generally means fewer hand-offs and faster answers.
Money
How much do I need for a down payment?
As little as 3% on a conventional loan for first-time buyers, 3.5% on FHA, and $0 on VA and USDA. THDA Great Choice Plus assistance can help qualified buyers with down payment and closing costs. Twenty percent is not required.
What credit score do I need?
FHA guidelines allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down; conventional loans generally start around 620; the best pricing tends to start around 740. Lender requirements vary, and Jerri-Lynn can show you what a score change would actually mean for your payment.
Can I use gift money from family?
Yes, on most programs. Family gift funds are allowed for down payment and closing costs with a simple gift letter and documentation of the transfer.
What are closing costs in Tennessee?
Typically 2–3% of the purchase price: lender fees, title and escrow fees, appraisal, recording, and prepaid taxes and insurance. Seller credits and lender credits can reduce what you bring to the table.
Will you tell me the maximum I can borrow?
Yes — and then Jerri-Lynn will ask what payment you’d actually be comfortable with, because those are usually two different numbers. The goal is a home you enjoy, not a payment you dread.
Timing
How long does pre-approval take?
Usually one to two business days once your documents are in. Rush situations — you found the house this afternoon — can move faster.
How long does it take to close?
About 30 days from an accepted contract is typical, and shorter is often possible when the file is prepared up front.
Should I wait for rates to come down?
Nobody can time rates. If the payment on a home works for your life today, that’s the decision that matters; if rates fall later, refinancing is an option. Jerri-Lynn will never pressure you either way — she’ll just show you the math.
How long is a pre-approval good for?
Pre-approval letters are typically valid for 60–90 days and are easy to refresh with updated documents if your search runs longer.
Have a question? Just ask Jerri-Lynn.
No pressure, no jargon, no obligation — just a straight answer from someone who knows Middle Tennessee. Text, call, or apply whenever you’re ready.