For physicians who are looking to buy a home in Tennessee, the process can be particularly challenging due to their unique financial circumstances.
With extensive education and student loan debt, many doctors face financial hurdles that can make it difficult to secure a traditional mortgage. With favorable terms and little to no money down physician mortgage loans can be a useful options for doctors.
How Do Tennessee Physician Mortgages Work?
Physician loans, also referred to as doctor mortgages, are tailor-made for medical professionals, acknowledging their unique financial circumstances. These specialized loans offer advantageous terms like minimal or zero down payments, exemption from private mortgage insurance, and flexible debt-to-income ratios. What sets these loans apart is their consideration of a doctor's potential future income as a decisive factor for eligibility, rather than solely relying on their current income and debt situation. This approach recognizes that medical practitioners often possess significant earning potential but may currently have significant student loan debt.
By factoring in these elements, physician loans aim to render homeownership more attainable for doctors who might otherwise struggle to qualify for conventional mortgages. For physicians looking to buy a home in Tennessee, these loans present an opportunity to turn their dreams of homeownership into a reality.
Best Doctor Mortgage Loans in Tennessee
Buying a home can be a daunting task, especially for physicians who have just completed their residency and are burdened with student loan debt. Physician mortgage loans have emerged as a popular option for medical professionals who are looking to purchase a home.
Doctor mortgages offer favorable terms, such as low or no down payments, no private mortgage insurance, and flexible debt-to-income ratios, making homeownership more accessible to physicians in Tennessee.
Here are the best physician mortgage loans available to medical professionals in Tennessee.
Bell Bank Mortgage
We are one of the largest privately held banks in the country. We pride ourselves by going above and beyond. From your first interaction with us we simplify a process that’s often complex. We understand that your time is precious and our technology allows us to work together as efficiently as possible. We are also very competitive in finding you the lowest rate possible with the lowest possible costs and fees. We understand there may be real estate agents that don’t understand the physician loan program and we like to educate them on the benefits of using this program.
Bell Bank offers home financing options geared specifically for physicians and dentists with term options of a 30 year fixed. In addition we also offer ARM options with a 5, 7 and 10 year ARM. Depending on your loan amount you would have 3 options.
Option #1
Loan amounts up to $1,000,000
Requires a 5% down payment
Requires 3 months of reserves
No mortgage insurance
Option #2
Loan amounts from $1,000,000 to $1,500,000
Requires a 10% down payment
Requires 6 months of reserves
No mortgage insurance
Option #3
Loan amounts from $1,500,000 to $2,000,000
Requires a 15% down payment
Requires 6 months of reserves
No mortgage insurance
Above options require:
Minimum credit score of 720
US Citizen
Must be an active medical doctor or resident or dentist
Fully executed employment contract with no contingencies is allowed for income verification. Application must start work within 90 days of loan closing.
MD, DO, DDS, Resident, Fellows
Low fixed and variable APRS. Streamlined approval and application process. Here at Bell Bank we also service all of our loans and do not sell or transfer the loans to another servicer. Student loan payments can be omitted from the debt structure if we can show the payments will be deferred for at least 12 months.
Phone: 651-248-1936
Synovus Bank ∂
Financing up to $2 million on primary and secondary residences, purchase and refinances.
No down payment or Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) required.
Projected income accepted if borrower is scheduled to begin new employment within 90 days of closing.
Eligible during first 10-years of licensed and practicing.
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DPM
100% to $1 Million
Primary and Secondary residences
Projected income used if scheduled to begin new employment within 90 days
Construction to Permanent mortgage available on Physician Mortgage
Phone: 205-567-3061
Subject to credit and underwriting approval. Allowable LTV dependent upon primary or secondary residence, combined loan amount, and risk level. Property appraisal required. Cash-out refinancing not available on secondary residences. Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Loans subject to approval, including credit approval.
Liberty Federal Credit Union ∀
Liberty Federal Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution focused on returning value through innovative products and services. Liberty has been recognized on a state level by Forbes as one of Indiana’s best financial institutions. In recent years, the credit union has also received acclaim on a national level, including being named the nation’s Best Credit Union for Checking by Investopedia in 2021 and appearing on Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Banks in 2022.
Liberty Federal Credit Union excels in providing value through better loan options for borrowers. For instance, the credit union offers an uncommonly wide variety of mortgage options to ensure the best fit for its members. According to the American Credit Union Mortgage Association, Liberty FCU was the Midwest’s top credit union in 2021 total first mortgage originations.
Program features:
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
- 100% financing up to $970,800 loan amounts
- 95% financing for $970,801 to $1,500,000 loan amounts
- 90% financing for $1,500,001 to $2,000,000 loan amounts
- Purchases and rate/term refinances are eligible
- Low credit score requirement of 680, plus free in-house credit repair
- We are committed to offering your lowest rate. If you find a lower rate, we’ll match it.1
Receive a gift card worth up to $500 on closing! 2 Plus, pair your mortgage with your Liberty FCU checking account and debit card to receive a 1/8% APR interest rate discount. 3
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows, OD, DPM, Pharmacist
Whether you just began your residency or you are an established physician, Liberty FCU is dedicated to helping you secure the home of your dreams.
This program is available to residents, fellows, new, and established physicians alike. 4 We will gladly work with you and your busy schedule. Pre-qualification can be done easily online or through email.
Phone: 502-767-7867
Loans are subject to credit review and approval. Closing costs may apply. Liberty FCU mortgage lending product availability may vary based on property location. A sample principal and interest payment on a (7)-year $500,000 adjustable-rate loan amount with a 3.500% interest rate (3.575% APR) is $6,719.93. Taxes and insurance are not included; therefore, the actual payment obligation will be greater. Actual interest rate may vary based on credit history. Additional rates and programs available. Visit us online for current rate information. Contact a Liberty FCU mortgage loan officer for more details.
1 Rate Match Guarantee available for new purchases and refinanced first mortgage loans of primary residences with conventional conforming financing. Certain product exclusions may apply. Loan Estimate from competing lender must be dated and received within three calendar days prior to locking your interest rate at Liberty FCU. The terms of the competing loan must be identical to Liberty FCU’s loan. If the loan does not close within the commitment period, the rate match may be voided. This offer is subject to credit approval and may change or terminate without notice. Offer is not applicable to government loans, including FHA, USDA, and VA financing. Not valid in combination with 1/8% rate discount. Product offerings may vary by state or region.
2 Gift card offer is available on financing of purchase or construction loans for primary residences only. Purchase or construction loan amounts up to $149,999 will receive a $250 gift card. Purchase or construction loan amounts of $150,000 or greater will receive a $500 gift card. Not valid in combination with any other offer.
3 Discount available on conventional conforming financing of purchases for primary residences only. Offer available for new primary mortgage loans and mortgage loans already established at Liberty FCU when refinanced with at least $10,000 new money. Closing costs may apply. Liberty FCU verifies the past checking history of applicants with ChexSystems, a national consumer reporting network. Information obtained from the report could result in checking account denial. Certain product exclusions may apply.
4 Available to residents, fellowship, newly established, or established physicians with MD, DO, DDS, DMD, OD, or DP credentials. Rates listed are specific to the Physician Loan mortgage program. Standard mortgage rates may vary.
PhysicianLoans
Read below to learn more about us. But if you are on a short time-line and are looking for information quickly, go to www.physicianloans.com, click on Get Started and take one minute to complete the short form. Tal will make sure that you get what you need right away.
PhysicianLoans originated as a family business in 1993 and after being a pioneer in the physician loan space, grew to become one of the most trusted brands for doctors. Our loan officers specialize in working with doctors and are true experts on financing for Doctors. Our team can assist you in 47 states
PhysicianLoans is an approved member benefit for the AMA, AOA and SOMA. We are a trusted name in home financing for doctors.
We are also more than just a place for rate shopping. If expertise, advice and customer service are important to you, always be sure to speak with a PhysicianLoans loan officer.
Visit www.physicianloans.com, click on GET STARTED, and take one minute to complete the short form. Or call us at 877-593-9313. We will be in touch quickly and get you what you need to successfully move forward.
Not a hard sales pitch. Just the advice and information you need.
No Money Down, No PMI, 50% DTI, Special Underwriting, ARMs and Fixed
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DVM
Pioneers in this space, Best Customer Service, Experienced
Phone: 877-593-9313
The Federal Savings Bank ++
Our home loan for Medical Professionals or Physicians was designed to help those in the medical profession achieve their dreams of homeownership. At The Federal Savings Bank, we are committed to finding the right mortgage for our customers, including those who are committed to save lives.
We understand your unique needs. You might have accumulated debt to become a healthcare professional, but we are here to help you! Our offering will help you buy a home early in your career, and sometimes even before you start your new job!
0% down up to $1 MM loan amount
5% down up to $1.5 MM loan amount
10% down up to $2 MM loan amount
Min FICO – 660 (lower FICO will not affect your rate)
Owner occupied Primary Residence
1-4 unit residential property
Rental income can be used to meet DTI requirement
No MI
No Reserve Requirement
No Prepayment Penalty
ARM loan options
Can close up to 90 days prior to start of new job
Student loan payments deferred for 12+ months are not included in DTI
No limit on the number of years out of residency
Non-occupant co-borrower allowed
Gift funds allowed from family members
Up to 6% seller credit allowed
US Citizens, Permanent Resident Aliens, Work Visa
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows, PA, NP, DVM, CRNA, DNAP, OD, DPM, APRN, CNM, Pharmacist, Psychologist
Min FICO – 660 (lower FICO will not affect your rate) – Can ask for exception for lower
Serving medical and healthcare professionals nationwide
Wide coverage of professionals – We value the contribution of healthcare professionals and want to support as many as possible to achieve the dream of homeownership
Qualify with few funds – low down payment & NO Reserves
Lower rate compared to a traditional mortgage
Program is open to all qualifying professionals regardless of years in practice
Loan available for Cash-out Refi as well (with lower LTV)
Phone: 571-331-5161
Subject to credit approval. Terms and conditions may apply. Property insurance is required for all loans secured by property.
The Federal Savings Bank | Co. NMLS# 411500 | All Rights Reserved | thefederalsavingsbank.com
Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender
Fifth Third
Phone: 708-351-6416
US Bank ††
Residents with 6 months or less left in their residency or Fellowship programs who have accepted permanent positions or doctors that have completed residency within the past 10 yrs are eligible for the physician mortgage loan.
MD, DO, Resident, Fellows
Phone: 916-837-4531
Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC.
BankMD *
BankMD is the only Specialized Physician Bank in the country. BankMD offers Specialized, Simple and Reliable services, focussing on the unique needs of Physician's to offer customized solutions to meet the challenging demands of your career and lifestyle.
90% to $850M, 85% to $1,000M, 80% to $2,000M, 75% to $3,000M
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows
44% DTI, 1099 accepted less than one year, future income and self employed allowed
Phone: 855-422-6563
BankMD NMLS ID: 1426259 : BankMD is a division of TransPecos Banks, SSB Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender
First Federal Lakewood
First Federal of Lakewood Physician Loan program allows for 100% financing on loan amounts up to $1,000,000, 95% financing on loan amounts up to 1.25MM and 90% financing on loan amounts up to 1.5MM First Federal Lakewood Physician Loan program allows for 100% on purchases up to $1,000,000. This program has no monthly mortgage insurance (PMI).
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DVM, OD, DPM
First Federal Lakewood’s physician loan program is very competitive with other lenders in this space when comparing interest rates and fees. There are a couple unique pieces of our loan program that other lenders do not offer.
- First Federal Lakewood can close a physician loan based on an employment contract if the start date is within 12 months. Many of our competitors will only use new employment start dates within 30-60 days.
- Construction draw loans available in 5 states (KY, IN, MI, OH, PA)
- Long term locks up to 12 months available
Phone: 419-318-8985
Simmons Bank +
Whether you’re beginning Residency, Fellowship, or a Practicing Physician, Simmons Bank offers a Physician Mortgage Loan designed to meet the needs of Medical Physicians, Oral Surgeons, and Dentists.
Our team of dedicated Medical & Professional Bankers serve as a single point of contact, providing personalized concierge service and comprehensive expertise to assist with personal banking and lending needs. In addition to our Physician Mortgage Loan program, we offer the following products and services:
- Personal & Business Deposit Accounts
- Auto, Boat, ATV, and RV Loans
- Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit
- Personal Unsecured Loans
- Construction/Renovation Loans
- Lot/Land Loans
- Bridge Loans
- Credit Cards
- Mortgage Loans
Up to 102% financing. No PMI required (private mortgage insurance). May qualify using future income to close loan prior to new employment start date (employment contract required). Minimum credit score required: 640. Financing over 100% must be used for taxes, insurance, & other closing costs. Down payment may be required based on loan amount. Additional guidelines apply. Subject to credit approval. Member FDIC
MD, DO, Resident, Fellows
Phone: 501-259-1193
First Horizon
Currently we offer several physician programs. Our most popular product will allow the following:
- 100% financing up to a $1.5 million loan amount
- No PMI
- No restrictions for time out of residency
- Very low reserve requirements
- Minimum credit score of 680
- Can close up to 6 months prior to employment start date
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, CRNA, CPA, DPM, Pharmacist, Attorney
Clearly a strength is our product is more flexible than most of our peers. We have been able to help several physicians who were turned down elsewhere for the product recently. Allowing physicians to be greater than 10 yrs out of residency and still qualify has been helpful to many. The opportunity to provide 100% financing up to $1.5 million, and 95% financing up to $2 million, and 90% financing up to $2.5 million has been strong compared to competitors. Condos are allowable under the product.
Phone: 865-548-7313
Truist
Phone: 866-810-4404
Laurel Road ~
WCI readers can get a 0.25% rate discount+ on mortgage lending with Laurel Road+. You could also save up to $650 off closing costs+. Explore no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) options+ with a Mortgage Loan Officer+. There is no Processing/Application Fee, a value of $1,095+.
Check your rates today!
Up to 95% financing options available. Ask about our competitive terms on rate/term and cash-out refinancing. NO PMI. Fixed rate and variable rate mortgages available. NO prepayment penalty. Only available when purchasing or refinancing with no cash out on a primary residence and loan amount does not exceed $1,000,000. Retired doctors are not eligible. Additional conditions and restrictions may apply.
MD, DO, Resident, Fellows, DPM
Low fixed and variable APRs. Streamlined application and approval process. Available in all 50 states. Applicants may also receive up to $650 in closing cost credits. Laurel Road’s digital application is available 24-hrs per day for busy working professionals. See laurelroad.com
Phone: 877-801-4686
Notice: This is not a commitment to lend or extend credit. Conditions and restrictions may apply. All credit products are subject to credit approval. Mortgage products are also subject to collateral approval. Mortgage products are available in all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. Hazard insurance and, if applicable, flood insurance are required on collateral property. Actual rates, fees, and terms are based on those offered as of the date of application and are subject to change without notice.
1The interest rate discount of 0.25% is offered to borrowers who are active White Coat Investor readers and who are an intern, resident, fellow, doctor, clinical professor, researcher, or managing physician at the time of closing. To be eligible borrowers also must have a current medical license (as applicable) and have earned a Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) evidenced by a diploma. This 0.25% interest rate discount cannot be combined with other offers, except the Rewards Program. For Fixed-rate mortgages, the 0.25% rate discount is a permanent interest rate reduction that will be reflected in the Promissory Note interest rate. For adjustable-rate mortgages, the 0.25% rate discount will apply to the initial Fixed interest rate period and will be reflected in the maximum amount the interest rate can increase over the term of the loan, subject to the minimum interest rate that may be charged per the terms of the Promissory Note.
2Laurel Road offers up to $650 in lender's credit towards your mortgage closing costs. Credits cannot exceed borrowers' actual costs to close. For more information on how to obtain the $650 credit, refer to the Rewards Program information here.
395% financing is only available to interns, residents, fellows, doctors, dentists, clinical professors, researchers, or managing physicians with a current license and a degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). Only available when purchasing or refinancing with no cash out on a primary residence and loan amount does not exceed $1,000,000. Retired doctors are not eligible. Additional conditions and restrictions may apply.
Only available to interns, residents, fellows, doctors, clinical professors, researchers, or managing physicians with a current license and a degree of Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). Retired doctors are not eligible. Additional conditions and restrictions apply.[/scroll-box]
Laurel Road is a brand of KeyBank National Association. All products offered by KeyBank N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS # 399797. Equal Housing Lender. © 2022 KeyCorp® All Rights Reserved. Laurel Road is a federally registered service mark of KeyCorp. 3 Corporate Drive. 4th floor Shelton, CT 06484, USA.
Huntington Bank
With a career in the mortgage industry since 1990, we understand that listening to your short-term and long-term goals is key to structuring a loan that will successfully meet your individual needs. We believe in exceeding your expectations throughout the loan process, whether you are purchasing or refinancing your current home, vacation home or income property. We specialize in Physician Loans, Construction Loans, and Luxury Home Financing (Jumbo Mortgages). There is an impressive array of mortgage products available through Huntington, we will work with you to help determine mortgage loans options to meet your needs.
Please contact us today to schedule a convenient time to discuss your home financing options! We want you to become a Huntington customer for life!
We offer Zero Down up to $1,000,000, 5% Down from $1,000,001 to $1,250,000 and 10% Down from $1,250,001 to $2,000,000 – all with NO PMI. This is for Primary Homes only and includes all Purchases, Refinances and Cash Out Refinances with up to $250,000 Cash Out. Minimum Credit Score is 700. We offer all Loan Programs such as a 30 Year Fixed, 15 Year Fixed, 3/6, 5/6, 7/6, 10/6 and 15/6 ARM products. Non-Warrantable Condos are also eligible, however, with 10% Down.
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, DVM, DPM
Our Dr Program has been in place for over 13 years! Here at Huntington, we also service all our Physician Loans and do not sell or transfer the loans to another servicer. We allow for up to a 50% Debt to Income Ratio also, which is higher than most other lenders. Our program is very solid. We specialize with the program here at Huntington, it is ALL that we do!!
Phone: 586-749-8355
First Citizens Bank
Thank you for your interest in First Citizens Bank! We offer physician loans at 100% financing to $1,000,000, 95% to $1,250,000, as well as higher loan sizes with tiered down payments. Options include purchase and refinance of primary and secondary residence as well as construction to permanent financing. There is no PMI on our Medical Mortgage products and no limit on years in practice for established physicians. The minimum credit score for this program is 680. Treatment of student loan payments in calculating debt to income ratios can often be of concern to physicians; but we are very flexible on how we underwrite deferment and income based repayment. Loans may close up to 60 days prior to employment start date. This program is open to US citizens, permanent, and non-permanent residents.
Fixed rate and ARM options depending on loan amount and occupancy type. Primary residence – 100% financing up to $1,000,000; 95% up to $1,250,000; 90% up to $1,500,000; 80% up to $2,000,000; 75% to $3,000,000. Second home – 89.99% financing up to $1,250,000; 85% up to $1,500,000; 80% up to $2,000,000. Construction and Renovation – 89.99% financing up to $1,500,000; 85% up to $1,750,000. Minimum credit score – 680. Eligible borrowers include US Citizens, Permanent Resident Aliens, and Non-Permanent Resident Aliens
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows, PA, NP, CRNA, DC, OD, DPM
Program is open to all qualifying doctors regardless of years in practice, flexible underwriting on student loans, down payment and reserves may be gifted, excellent client service, and retained loan servicing. I specialize in physician lending and have over 20 years of experience in mortgage loan originations. I also have prior experience in loan processing and underwriting. Our origination and fulfillment teams have a great partnership environment and I’m confident in our ability to deliver a smooth and stress free experience. Apply online here.
Phone: 864-630-0921
First National Bank of Pennsylvania ∉
0% down to $1.25 million with 720 score, 10.01% down to $1.5 million. 30 and 15 Fixed, 15/6, 10/6, 7/6 ARM’s.
Purchase or Refinance.
Federal student loans are excluded from Underwriting for Interns, Residents, and Fellows.
Seller Assist permitted up to 4% at 90% LTV or higher, 6% on LTV below 90%.
No PMI.
Conventional and Jumbo Financing Available.
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows, DVM
Construction/Permanent available with 15% down, no PMI.
80% Financing up to $1.5 million for Second/Vacation Homes
1099 Contracted employees acceptable (upon review)
Phone: 412-951-6793
First Community Mortgage >
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or have purchased several homes, we support you in a way you have never experienced. Whether you need the one-on-one support with close attention or prefer to utilize our digital experience, you can feel confident knowing you have experienced professionals always on your side. We offer Purchase, Rate/Term Refi’s, Second Home loans up to 90%, Investor Loans and Construction/Rehab loans. FCM has financing programs to tailor a program that fits your financial goals.
100% up to $1.25MM. 90% LTV 1.25MM to 1.5MM. Student loans not counted towards ratios.
Minimum credit score of 620. No PMI. No restrictions for time out of residency. Can close up to 90 days prior to employment start date. No Pre-payment penalty. Student loans omitted if deferred. IDR used if in repayment. Gift funds permitted for down payment and reserves.
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows, DVM, DPM, Pharmacist
We offer fully underwritten pre-approvals completed by seasoned underwriters. This allows us to offer a $5,000 21 day close on time guarantee. Set yourself apart from other offers in this tight housing market. We are the lender and decisions are made internally.
Phone: 210-712-2562
This information is offered for informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for, or alteration of, any federal or state law or regulation, company policy, or provision of any written plan document or agreement between the company and any contracted provider. In the event of any inconsistency between information here and any federal or state law or regulation, company policy, written plan document or agreement, the provisions of the relevant law, policy, plan document or agreement will govern, and no person or entity shall be entitled to claim detrimental reliance on any information provided or expressed here. Effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, the Company reserves the right to interpret any ambiguity arising from any information provided.
BMO Bank
BMO Bank has developed a class leading Physician & Dentist Mortgage Loan Program. The below Loan Officers have decades of experience not only in the mortgage industry but also working specifically with Physicians and Dentists. We are dedicated to ensuring a qualify experience to all buyers, from start to finish.
Loan Officer Info:
Please contact the listed Loan Officer based on the state in which you are purchasing.
100% financing to $1MM, 95% to $1.5MM, 90% to $2MM, less than 10 years practicing(not including residency or fellowship) for down payments less than 10%. Primary Residence SFR, Condo, 2 unit properties eligible. Can close up to 90 days prior to employment start date with signed contract or signed offer letter. 30 year fixed rate options along with shorter term fixed and ARM’s. No PMI/MI. Rate/Term Refi or Purchase only. Gift funds allowed for down payment, closing costs, and reserves. We are now able to use 1099 contract income for doctors who have a guaranteed minimum salary in their contract without a 2 year history of income established as a 1099 employee. Must be actively seeing patients.
MD, DO, DDS, DMD, Resident, Fellows
BMO Bank developed and began offering a physician loan program in 2015. The program has been expanding and growing for the past 8 years. All of the Loan Officers listed specialize in the physician loan product. These 4 loan officers have a wealth of knowledge and experience to handle any scenario imaginable. We can quickly determine what options are available within BMO’s loan options to structure a loan to fit your needs. We have dedicated processors and underwriters to ensure a smooth lending process and quick closing. We look forward to earning your business!
Phone: 920-831-7721
Choosing a Conventional vs Doctor Mortgage When Buying a Home in Tennessee
If you've decided to buy a home, and you are committed to living in Tennessee for more than five years, you should give serious consideration to putting 20% down and getting a conventional mortgage. The improved monthly cash flow will allow you a great deal of financial freedom and the ability to invest (and even spend). You'll save hundreds of thousands on interest over the life of the loan, all guaranteed, unlike investing a potential down payment elsewhere.
If you're going to buy a home in Tennessee AND you can't or don't want to put 20% down, then a doctor mortgage loan is a reasonable option and at least as good as the other non-20%-down options.
When comparing conventional vs. doctor mortgages, physician loans do have lots of advantages, but those primarily revolve around easier underwriting requirements. A doctor mortgage can help you qualify for a loan you otherwise couldn't get.
Conventional mortgages are more difficult to qualify for, but there’s a reason for that. If you can qualify for a conventional mortgage, especially if you can make a sufficient down payment to avoid paying PMI, you’ll usually get a lower interest rate and fees. That means a lower monthly payment and a lower overall cost for your loan.