Columbus, OH Mortgage Loans and Pre-Approvals

Local help from a Loan Loan Officer, T.C. Strait / Mortgage Loan Officer

Buying in Columbus or a nearby suburb? I’ll set a clear budget, compare programs, and get you a strong letter that helps your offer stand out.

Why buyers in Columbus choose T.C.

20+ years helping Ohio buyers and homeowners

Fast, clean pre-approvals backed by real underwriting review

Call or text any time you need an update or have questions

Clear rate quotes with total cash to close shown up front

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Ask a Question

Free consult. No obligation.

Loan options that fit many Columbus purchases

Conventional

Competitive terms for strong credit and steady income. Good fit for most single-family homes in Franklin County and Columbus suburbs.

FHA

Flexible on credit and down payment. Many first-time buyers in Columbus and the surrounding communities choose FHA to get started.

VA

Zero down for eligible Veterans and active-duty service members. I handle the COE and guide you on seller credits and fees.

USDA

Zero down in eligible areas. Parts of Franklin and Delaware counties may qualify. I’ll check the current map before you make an offer.

What pre-approval looks like with me

Step 0 Chat with me about your goals and price range
Step 1 Apply online
Step 2 Pay for the credit report online
Step 3 Send income and asset documents

You’ll get a clear price range, estimated payment, and a letter you can use to make offers.

Living in Columbus: what buyers ask about

Columbus spreads out around I-270 with different taxes and schools by suburb. You’ll see a mix of new builds and older homes inside the beltway. Condo financing varies by project, so we verify status early. I’ll run payment estimates per address and include HOA dues when needed.

Service area

I’m based in Mason, OH and help buyers and homeowners in Columbus, Franklin County, Delaware County and all across Ohio.

Ready to talk?

Apply now to get a real price range and payment

Ask a quick question by call or text: 513-562-7926

Free consult. No obligation.

Local reviews

TC Strait is your guy if you’re looking to buy a house.

Nathan W.Cincinnati, OH

He’s helped us with a few home sales and always ran the numbers for us.

Lance B.Cincinnati, OH

TC was a Godsend throughout this whole process.

Shannon K.Cincinnati, OH

Helpful tools

Purchase
Calculator

Estimate payment and cash to close in under a minute.

FHA Loan
Page

FHA limits, down payment, credit rules, and fees.

VA Loan
Page

Check VA eligibility, funding fee, and $0 down paths.

USDA Loan
Page

Confirm USDA areas, $0 down option, and income caps.

Conventional Loan Page

Compare rates, PMI rules, and strong-credit options.

Mortgage
Process

Follow 7 clear steps from pre-approval to a closing.

FAQ

What credit score do I need to buy in Columbus?

Many programs start around the mid-600s. FHA can allow lower. I’ll look at full credit and income before we pick a loan.

How much do I need for a down payment?

Conventional can be as low as 3 percent. FHA is 3.5 percent. VA and USDA can be zero down if you qualify.

How long does pre-approval take?

If you apply and upload documents the same day, we can often issue a strong letter within 24–48 hours.

Are parts of Columbus eligible for USDA?

Eligibility changes over time. I’ll check the current map for the exact address before you make an offer.

Are property taxes higher inside the beltway?

Taxes vary by district. I’ll estimate the bill for each address.