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Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestyles

Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestyles

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a city that perfectly blends affordability, livability, and a vibrant, active lifestyle. Known as the “Scenic City,” Chattanooga offers a unique combination of outdoor adventures, cultural amenities, and community-focused living that attracts people of all ages and lifestyles. If you’re considering making the move, Pratt Home Builders has the perfect home to complement your lifestyle in this thriving city.

A City Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Chattanooga’s location along the Tennessee River and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker, cyclist, kayaker, or someone who simply loves scenic views, Chattanooga has something for everyone.

Residents enjoy access to more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including the stunning Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain. For those who love being on the water, the Tennessee River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a peaceful sunset boat ride. The Riverwalk, a 16-mile paved path that meanders along the river, is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while taking in the city’s picturesque views.

A Thriving Downtown with Southern Charm

Chattanooga’s downtown has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, making it one of the most livable urban centers in the Southeast. Packed with locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques, downtown Chattanooga is a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Cultural attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Tivoli Theatre add a rich layer to the city’s lifestyle. Festivals and events, such as the Riverbend Music Festival and Chattanooga Market, bring the community together year-round, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

A Community That Values Healthy Living

Chattanooga is more than just an outdoor haven—it’s a community that actively promotes health and wellness. From yoga in Coolidge Park to local farmers markets offering fresh, locally grown produce, the city makes it easy to live a healthy and balanced life.

The city’s dedication to green initiatives, such as its extensive bike-share program and eco-friendly developments, also aligns with an active and sustainable lifestyle. Families, retirees, and professionals alike can find opportunities to stay engaged and energized while living in a city that prioritizes well-being.

Affordable Living Meets Quality Homes

One of Chattanooga’s biggest draws is its affordability. Compared to national averages, Chattanooga’s cost of living is lower, making it possible to enjoy an exceptional quality of life without breaking the bank. Housing is especially appealing, with options ranging from historic homes in walkable neighborhoods to new construction designed for modern living.

This is where Pratt Home Builders comes in. We create homes that combine thoughtful design, high-quality craftsmanship, and energy efficiency—perfectly suited to Chattanooga’s lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community, a cozy townhome, or a spacious single-family home, we have options tailored to fit your needs.

Why Chattanooga Is Perfect for Active Families

Families love Chattanooga for its abundance of kid-friendly activities and excellent schools. Attractions like the Creative Discovery Museum and the Chattanooga Zoo make weekends fun and educational for children. Outdoor adventures, from hiking to ziplining, provide endless opportunities for quality family time.

For those raising a family, Pratt Home Builders offers neighborhoods with amenities like playgrounds, walking trails, and access to great schools—ensuring that your home is not only a place to live but also a place to thrive.

Make Your Move with Pratt Home Builders

Chattanooga is more than just a city—it’s a lifestyle. With its unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, vibrant downtown, and affordability, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to call it home.

At Pratt Home Builders, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect home in this incredible city. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade to a home that fits your active lifestyle, our communities are designed with you in mind.

Explore our homes and start your Chattanooga journey today. Together, we’ll help you create a life that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.

Tags: Chattanooga homes, active lifestyle in Chattanooga, affordable living Chattanooga, Pratt Home Builders, new homes in Chattanooga, Tennessee outdoor activities

Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestylesgmwebservices2025-12-04T15:25:58+00:00

New Home Favorite Features: Dedicated Home Office

Here at Pratt Home Builders, we have a plethora of options in floor plans that meet your needs! Within the past few years, many jobs have been moved from office positions to work from home or you may work from home a certain number of days during the week. Did you know Pratt Home Builders offers home plans with a dedicated office?

Some of our plans that include a dedicated office include the Riverbirch, Shenandoah, Waterford, New Haven, Peyton, Quail Run, Emory, Meridian and many more to choose from!

When working from home, it is very important to create a space that keeps productivity a priority! There are many things that affect a dedicated office to ensure a high productivity rate. In the majority of our plans that have a dedicated office, you may see the offices being shown at the front of the house – this allows natural daylight to come into the space, security measures of the front of your house and being tucked away from the noisier parts of your home as well! Even though some plans allow for a dedicated office, you do not necessarily have to use it as an office! Dedicated spaces can be used as a game room, gym/ exercise room, playroom, craft room, home office, storage and so many more purposes that meet your family’s needs. Having that dedicated space within your home allows flexibility for you and your family to use it the way you want!

A dedicated office space allows individuals with the following:

Freedom to create and furnish your own workspace.
Ready for future emergencies.
Shorter commutes decrease air pollution for a healthier environment.
Flexibility.
Increase the value of your home.

At times, when working from home, it can be difficult to keep the work life balance a priority. Having a dedicated office that is enclosed by doors can allow you to mentally and physically shut the door to start and end your workday.

The main goal of having a home office is to ensure productivity is a priority. Color selections that you put into an office can help determine the level of productivity and what impact it can have on the individual utilizing the space. Some individuals prefer to have a room that is dark and moody while others like to have a bright and airy work zone. Pratt Home Builders offers multiple options to add such as wainscoting, Sherwin Williams paint deck to choose from, flooring options and ceiling details to make the room more personable to your aesthetic.

While in Design, the designers will work with you to create your perfect office space that meets your needs. Whether you need a dedicated office or a separate space within your home, Pratt Home Builders has exactly what you need to take priority in your life!

New Home Favorite Features: Dedicated Home Officegmwebservices2025-10-22T12:15:19+00:00

Chattanooga Travel Bloggers Share Three Unique Summer Trips Within Driving Distance

School is out and summer vacation is here! Whether by river, rail, or road, Chattanooga has always been a transportation hub. It’s helped the city grow for centuries, and it makes the Scenic City an easy starting point for road trips to lots of interesting places.

Here are three fun options if you’re planning to hit the highway this summer that you may not have heard of yet!

St. Augustine, Florida

Established in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is America’s oldest city. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which is a 17th century fort, then visit the Colonial Quarter, where you can get a taste for Florida life in the 1740s. You can tour Ponce de Leon’s landing site at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park or try your hand — er, hook — at swashbuckling at the Pirate and Treasure Museum. To break up the eight-hour drive, plan a stop along the way at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park in Macon, Georgia. These incredibly well-preserved Native American ceremonial mounds are in the running to become America’s next full-fledged national park.

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Wanting to delve underground for spring break? Head to the world’s longest cave system. Located in south central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park features hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing, camping, stargazing, and exploring on 52,000 acres of land. Its thousands of years of human history and rich array of flora and fauna have earned the park status as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Mammoth Cave is just a three-and-a-half hour drive from Chattanooga, so it makes a great weekend getaway, too.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

While Native Americans have known of the healing powers of the thermal waters of Hot Springs for centuries, the Arkansas town didn’t transform into a European-style spa destination until the 1800s. The famous “Bathhouse Row” sprung up next to the springs in the early 1870s, when six bathhouses and two dozen hotels and boarding houses were built following the Civil War. You can now visit some of these historic structures as part of Hot Springs National Park and even soak your cares away with traditional thermal spa treatments. The park also has 26 miles of hiking trails and a spring-side promenade that’s turn-of-the-century — the 19th century, that is. Break up the eight-hour drive with a stop in Memphis for some mouth-watering barbecue and a visit with the Peabody Hotel’s world-famous ducks.

Looking for more inspiration for your next road trip or around-the-world adventure? Visit wemarriedadventure.com.

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Mike and Angela Ballard are passionate about travel. They’ve visited over 150 countries and territories on all seven continents, and they are travel correspondents for The Daily Refresh on ABC television (NewsChannel 9). In addition to their work in TV, the Ballards are contributors to Lonely Planet, Atlas

Chattanooga Travel Bloggers Share Three Unique Summer Trips Within Driving Distancegmwebservices2025-10-22T12:16:10+00:00

Earth Day 2024: 8 Tips for Reducing Plastic Consumption Starting at Home

This year’s Earth Day theme is Plastics vs. Planet, with a goal to slash plastic production by 60% by 2040.

With Chattanooga currently vying for the first-ever #NationalParkCity, it’s safe to say our residents care about the health and beauty of our hometown area. With studies showing plastics affecting wildlife, human health, and disrupting ecosystems across the world, we’re passionate about living thoughtfully to keep our home safe and beautiful. After all, we live here, too. Fortunately, there are some excellent ways to prevent using plastic in the first place, starting with hardly-noticeable swaps that are easy to do at home. In many cases, these tips these save a significant amount of money, too!

1. The first way to save money and dramatically reduce plastic use is to make the switch from bottled water to reverse osmosis (they even have counter-top ones!), filtered pitchers, or regular tap water. The U. S. population spends at least 11 billion dollars annually on bottled water. Typically, each person on average spends around $2,227 on bottled water, compared to tap water, which is just $2. Many may not realize that especially in cities like Chattanooga, water municipalities have much higher standards for water than water bottling facilities, which often simply filter and bottle tap water. So grab your Stanley, Yeti, Swell or a good ole’ fashioned Mason jar and drink up! Cheers!

2. Bring your own shopping bag. Although plastic bags are easy to pile up, there are hardly any recycling facilities for them outside of Publix or Walmart. Save yourself the trouble by getting a beau coups of cute canvas or cotton bags you can reuse, then toss without having to worry about the biodegradability.

3. Carry your own Mug. Plastic-lined paper cups and plastic lids to hot coffees and teas are more sneaky culprits that really add up over time. Unfortunately, many of these plastic types can’t be recycled locally. An easy solution is to bring your own mug and ask for it to be filled, or worst case skip the lid and pour your beverage into the thermos later.

4. Find reuseable lunch containers. Talk about a triple-bottom line shift! Packing lunch at home can not only save on materials, but is one of the easiest ways to save time and money, too. In most cases, it’s a great way to ensure healthy options, too!

5. Make the switch from soap bottles to bars. Average use can be up to 24 bottles a year according to UNICEF, so it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of skin-friendly soaps that are made or sold locally, too. A few of our favorites can be found at Good Fortune Soap, High Road Soap, and of course there are plenty of options at The Chattanooga Market.

6. Store leftovers in jars or with silicone covers. Who else loves looking at those perfectly organized refrigerators on Pinterest and YouTube? Consistent containers add to an organized home aesthethic, and save the plastic wrap, lunch bags, plastic bags that can all be part of a typical takeout or storing leftovers process.

7. Consider skipping the confetti – or making your own. Hole-punching flowers or construction paper is a great alternative that’s just as cute but without the tiny plastics.

8. Simplifying your cleaning routine. Baking soda, lemon juice, and old-fashioned vinegar are staples for a green-cleaning arsenal. Plus, these items can easily be stored in reusable or recyclable glass jars.

9. Swap your sponge. This is a simple swap that’s so easy to do. Most sponges are made of plastics that can break apart and get flushed down the sinks. Natural sponges are a great alternative.

10. Enjoy the dog park with biodegradable bags. Fortunately, our communities tend to have spacious yards that can be fenced that are perfect for Fido to roam, but for visits to our dog park, compostable bags like these can cut back on plastics over time.

Earth Day 2024: 8 Tips for Reducing Plastic Consumption Starting at Homegmwebservices2025-09-15T12:44:21+00:00

Pratt Design Team Visits Shaw

Pratt pre-sale customers typically travel to Pratt Home Builders for design sessions, but our design team also travels on behalf of our customers! One of the
most fun and exciting aspects of designing a home is being able to choose among the new stylish and high-quality inventory coming into the Design Center Showroom.

Travelling for Trends

A few weeks ago, the Pratt Home Builders interior design team traveled from our design center in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Atlanta, Georgia to Shaw Contract. We were on a mission to find new and current inventory for all of our clients here at Pratt Home Builders. During the
designers’ time at Shaw, we met with our Sales Representative for the Chattanooga area to learn more about all of the new products that are coming to the market. We went over so many different types of flooring examples included engineered
hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, carpet, subway tile, and penny round tile – small applications and large – we covered it for you!

Flooring Options for Every Style

As interior designers, it is our responsibility to keep our showroom updated for clients and stay in touch with our vendors to see what is going in & out of the market. We are so excited
for these new items to come to the showroom and be able to show clients going through design as well as prospective clients! One of the greatest aspects of the construction and design field is being able to create
reliable connections through the vendors we work with. Although many would think of the design showroom here at Pratt being a “one stop shop” for clients, we have several vendors that we partner with to be able to create an unlimited design palette to walk you through.

Shaw is one of the main vendors that Pratt showcases various products from in the design showroom – examples include engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, backsplash, carpet, floor tile & wall tile. These are not only options for pre-sale customers to choose from, but go-to options that our design team will curate for design market homes.

Sustainability Matters

Our team loves that Shaw has a focus on sustainability, which is shown through the materials health, circular economy to reuse and recycle product back within itself, creating a priority of cradle to cradle standards vs cradle to grave, recognizing the importance of carbon impact of their products as well as keeping diversity, equity and inclusion a priority. Shaw holds themselves to a high standard and we think highly of them for that.

We had so much fun being able to pick out new products for future clients while in Atlanta and we hope you will have the same amount of fun in the showroom designing your future new Pratt home!

Pratt Design Team Visits Shawgmwebservices2026-02-04T17:20:34+00:00

Serial Yoga Studio Owners, The Wrights, Find A Peaceful Retreat at Engel Park

The Wright Family, comprised of Ryan, Jenna and Stella, has called Engel Park “home” since May 2023. Their Lynden plan has been a perfect place to land while they focus on family, community, fitness, and their respective entrepreneurial ventures. The couple recently opened their third local yoga and pilates studio, purchasing an existing studio off East Brainerd Road, just minutes from their much-loved home at Engel Park.

Jenna’s work with online fitness powerhouse Eschelon brought her opportunities to the Chattanooga location. Then she met husband Ryan and decided to trade the big city for the scenic city. It’s been the perfect backdrop for the couple to chase fitness center endeavors of their own.

Jenna says: “I appreciate the convenience of where we live. It offers a peaceful retreat from the downtown hustle, yet it’s just a 20-minute journey away. East Brainerd is a gem, boasting everything one could need, including several of our top downtown eateries that have added locations here. With the addition of a new Southern Soul Yoga and Pilates studio just five minutes from our neighborhood, it’s the perfect spot for us. Our neighbors have become like family, and the sense of community and lifelong bonds we’ve formed this year is incomparable. We love with our home and our builder, Tyler. I’d be thrilled to have you as my neighbor!”

The Wrights are offering a FREE class to anyone who emails them at info@southernsoulyoga.com and mentions this Pratt Home Story.

Serial Yoga Studio Owners, The Wrights, Find A Peaceful Retreat at Engel Parkgmwebservices2026-02-04T18:49:35+00:00

Our Designers’ Favorite Kitchen Countertops Right Now

Contributed Blog by Jordan Fuller, Pratt Home Builders Interior Designer

Over the last few years, kitchens have become more unique and specialized because as some say, the kitchen is the heart of the home. There are so many components and aspects that go into a kitchen such as the cabinet, color palette, countertops, hardware, appliances, backsplash, and flooring. It’s a perfect place to express the essence of those who live there, and can provide a mood to tee off of the the whole-house design.

Pratt offers around 35 different countertops that range from Granite to Quartz for homeowners to choose from while they are in Design! Countertops are typically one of the main focuses within a kitchen or a bathroom that hold many different attributes which affect the way the kitchen or bathrooms are visualized. Regardless of the space, countertops are constantly used and hold high visual impact within a room.

Here are my top 5 countertops, in no particular order, that can change the look of your space and how to turn your kitchen into the heart of your home!

1. CALACATTA GOLD – QUARTZ

Calacatta Gold is our highest tier countertop we offer at the moment here in the Design Center at Pratt Home Builders. Quartz has become a major trend over the last few years in the design community due to its minimal maintenance, high scratch resistance, stain & acid resistance along with a high impact resistance as well. This quartz pairs well with just about every cabinet color we have to offer.

2. BLACK PEARL – GRANITE

Black Pearl is a beauty within itself and makes a bold statement, so it’s perfect for customers who want higher drama or a sleek look in the kitchen. This specific countertop is a granite composition which is a natural stone. Black Pearl Granite is well-loved not only for its attractive aesthetic, but also for functional properties such as easy cleanability, family friendly, high durability and a high heat resistance. Paired with a light color cabinet, this countertop will make its own first impression that is timeless and eye-catching.

3. ETERNAL STATUARIO & ETERNAL CHARCOAL – QUARTZ

Both of the quartz countertops play off of one another and compliment each other when installed in the same room. Recently one of our other designers, Rebecca, had a client that chose these two countertops for their kitchen – one for the kitchen perimeter and the other for the island. The light and delicate veining between the two contributes to create a high contrast and bold look within the kitchen once it is installed. Although the two quartz countertops stand greatly on their own, when combined, they create a unique pairing to match your personality & style for your home!

4. SIBERIA – GRANITE

With the plethora number of countertops we offer at Pratt, Siberia is one of my top choices for granite. The black speckles within the natural stone stand out against the white milky base color. My favorite design with Siberia is a white or grey cabinet with black hardware to bring out the black speckles within the granite. I have seen this done with a black kitchen / bathroom faucet or champagne bronze as well. This specific countertops speaks for itself with the luxury of also having low maintenance, a unique look and having a stain resistance protection.

5. UBATUBA – GRANITE

Here at Pratt, this specific countertop comes STANDARD with no additional charge while clients are in design. Since I have been at Pratt, this countertop has been chosen many times whether it was for a kitchen, a main bathroom or even guest bathrooms! UbaTuba is a darker granite that showcases black and brown within the stone itself. I personally love when materials and products can be viewed differently when we pair it with different surrounding finishes. One of my favorite ways to style this certain granite is with our boardwalk stained cabinet and with either black or bronze hardware / plumbing finishes. OH – and did I mention this granite is standard?

Our Designers’ Favorite Kitchen Countertops Right Nowgmwebservices2025-11-25T13:30:52+00:00

10 Unique Chattanooga Valentine’s Day Dates

This month, our guest blog is brought to you by Chattanooga Relationship coach Brock Olsen.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and Greater Chattanooga and surrounding areas are thriving with date-worthy venues and activities to bring a bit of creativity and fun to your date nights to celebrate love all month long.

1) Candle Making

At Good Fortune Soap, you get to make your very own candles for home! During this laid back candle make experience you create your own scent and a mixologist will serve you warm wax for you to make your candles and you get to name them! This date usually lasts about an hour.

2) Antiquing With a Fun Twist

The Refindery is an eclectic mix of antique, industrial, vintage and, architectural finds. This is one of my favorite rainy days date ideas, grab a coffee at Be Caffeinated and get lost in this McCallie treasure trove! It’s such an amazing place that allows you to have fun conversations about all the amazing items that may be nostalgic to your childhood or spark your curiosity and have you asking, “what is that?”

3) Take Flight

Lookout MTN Flight Park is only 20 minutes outside of Chattanooga and offers hang gliding and paragliding flights! You and your partner take turns with a certified instructor where you get to experience breathtaking views from 1500-3000 feet above the Chattanooga valley. They also offer overnight accommodations on their resort in the form of campgrounds and cabins.

4) Flower Power

Joli Jardin Flower Farm & Shop is a gorgeous European flower market located on Main Street. You’ll know it by the eye-catching frame of flowers that surround the beautiful building. The entrance itself wows, and the services are impeccable. Joli Jardin offers the option for customers to either attend their monthly workshops that show how to create floral arrangements & wreath, or to simply bring your date and take stunning photos as you build your own bouquet together.

5) Coffee, Food, & Art In Europe…Sort of!

The Bluff View Art District is one of my favorite spots in all of Chattanooga. You’ll often feel like you’re lost in a romantic European city as you and your date walk the cobblestone sidewalks, sample fresh-baked bread, and admire the outdoor sculptures of the riverfront. Rembrandts will be your first stop as you’ll both love warming up with coffee and chocolates, and tarts. Then indulging in handmade pasta at Tony’s, and walking around admiring the art from local artists throughout the sculpture & art garden.

6) Italian Renaissance Dining

Alleia with its low lighting, rustic interior, and beautifully presented dishes, Alleia is easily one of the most romantic restaurants in Chattanooga. My wife (who I like to think has impeccable taste since she chose me) begs to go here every date night! Start your evening with artisan cocktails and seasonal wines before moving on to elegant Italian fare that’s been handcrafted with locally sourced ingredients.

7) Immersive Dining Elegance

Zaya Korean Steakhouse takes you on a quest for a sizzling date night. Picture dim lights casting a warm glow, soft jazz melodies filling the air, and an ambiance that promises an extraordinary experience. This hidden gem seamlessly merges the elegance of a fine-dining steakhouse with the vibrant flair of Korean BBQ, setting the stage for an unparalleled evening– seize the chance to savor a perfect blend of steak and Korean BBQ elements at Zaya, crafting a date night adventure like no other.

8) South Of The Border Flavor

Taqueria Jalisco Ania is one of my and my wife’s favor spots in town for any night of the week but also for special occasions. The flavors from the kitchen feels like home cooking because they are inspired and brought to life by the owners mother who used her own recipes from whe she was a child. Enjoy their full tequila & mezcal bar and stunning ambiance that makes you feel like maybe you’re not in Chattanooga anymore.

9) The Best Cocktail Address

Whiskey Thief is one of my favorite spaces in Chattanooga as it overlooks 3 of Chattanooga’s most sought after destinations, the Hunter Museum, Walnut Street Bridge, and the Bluff View Art District. As the sun sets you and your date can enjoy over 100 kinds of whiskey for your next Old Fashioned or ask any of their master mixologists to craft you both a signature concoction that is all your own. Food menu options are provided by White bird, the hotel’s restaurant which provides locally sourced cuisine.

10) Keeping It Discreet ?

Company Chattanooga is one of my favorite speakeasy establishments in the city. Down the back alley away from prying eyes, this carefully hidden place behind a bookshelf provides a romantic ambiance that immediately takes you back to a bygone era, illuminated by Edison bulbs and candle lit copper top bar, you and your date will enjoy the cozy yet alluring atmosphere with a menu to match.

For more amazing date ideas, follow Brock Olsen: The Dating Expert @thebrockolsen to stay tuned for the full ’25 Chattanooga Date Ideas’ list to be published March 2024.

10 Unique Chattanooga Valentine’s Day Datesgmwebservices2024-02-06T16:46:41+00:00

Financial Matchmaking: Find the Right Loan for Your New Home Goals

by Rusty Wienk, FirstBank Mortgage

The journey of a first time home buyer can be a harrowing one. It is a complex process and experiencing a variety of emotions along the way is completely normal. Thank the internet for that; allowing us to spend hours looking at homes and floorplans – escaping to the dream of homeownership before we approach the reality of home buying. While it isn’t universally true, there is no doubt the process has some nuances, and an unprepared buyer will feel overwhelmed. Luckily, some information, strategy and finding the right lending partner can go a long way in laying the foundation for making those dreams a reality. All of these contribute to confidence in your finances and therefore, other choices along the way. Consider this your guide to financial matchmaking and finding the right home for your new home goals.

Knowledge is power

Let’s start by addressing the acronyms, which find endless use in mortgage. Take a complex term and condense it to three or four letters and it makes it all simpler, right? Wrong!!! In this post, the following five acronyms will be used.

THB = First-Time Home Buyer, someone who has not owned a home in the past three-years

DPA = Down Payment Assistance, funds to help cover the downpayment and/or closing costs

AMI = Area Median Income, statistical middle income for a geographic area (not the same as average)

DTI = Debt-to-Income, how much debt a person has compared to their income

LTV = Loan to Value, the percentage of a loan compared to the value of the home

Planning ahead

One challenge FTHBs face in today’s market is saving up enough for a downpayment and closing costs. The minimum down payment for a FTHB is 3% on a conventional loan. This can be especially challenging, even with moderate income, given our recent inflation rates and home appreciation. A FTHB does not have the advantage of rolling equity from a previous home into their next purchase, so quickly accumulating $20,000 to purchase a home is not an easy task. Let’s face it, it is hard to save fast enough!

A second pain point for that FTHB with limited funds is finding a program. Many DPA programs have income limits that are set by AMI. Furthermore, many programs require your income to be 80% of AMI and since it varies by location, some less densely populated counties, can be prohibitively low. Examples include Whitfield or Murray County at $57,200! Fortunately, the closer to a metro area you get, the more reasonable they become with 80% AMI of Catoosa, Walker, or Hamilton being $72,560.

The good news is, that if you are in that 80% AMI range, there are some excellent programs available. Two offered by first bank are FirstStart, a conventional FTHB loan up to 105% LTV or BetterAffordable, a FTHB conventional loan up to 100% LTV. Both of these loan programs feature Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs that provide lower interest rates than standard mortgages.

But what happens when you work hard, climb the “ladder,” establish good credit, pay down debt, only to find out you make too much money? Thankfully, FirstBank was still thinking of you! We offer BetterFuture, one of the few, true no-income limit conventional FTHB loans! We spent over half a year working with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, those two big quasi-governmental agencies that setup the guidelines on conventional loans, to create a product that works for all incomes. The program requires a minimum investment of $1,000, but AMI is irrelevant.

Finding the right lending partner

The bottom line is this: A good loan officer will ask the right questions, collect the right documents, and identify the right program. But, it is helpful to be aware of the process and through the process. Ready to get started? Let’s talk!

Example: On a $300,000, 30-year loan with 0% down payment, the total monthly mortgage payment with a rate of 6.99%, 7.066% APR would be $1,976, taxes and insurance not included. The FirstStart Loan requires a borrower investment of $500. The BetterAffordable and BetterFuture Loan requires a borrower investment of $1,000. The borrower investment can be used towards any closing costs, including appraisal. Application is required and subject to underwriting. Not all applicants are approved. Full documentation and property insurance required. Loan secured by a lien against your property. Fees and charges apply and may vary by product and state. Terms, conditions and restrictions apply, so call for details. FirstBank Mortgage provides a variety of loan products with different rates, payments and fees. All loans are subject to credit approval. Products and services offered by FirstBank. FirstBank Mortgage is a division of FirstBank. FirstBank Institution NMLS ID 472433.

Get Started

Ultimately, the Pratt Home Builders team is the first start place. Once you have had a Discovery Call to get ideas on the best community for you, a Pratt New Home Consultant, who are all licensed Realtors, can offer more information on the various options whether a personalized build or a designer market home is right for you, and which of their vetted lending partners is the best fit for that goal.

Financial Matchmaking: Find the Right Loan for Your New Home Goalsgmwebservices2025-09-26T11:55:42+00:00

Top 2024 Home Decor Trends Combine Function and Aesthetics

The world of home furniture and decor is undergoing a transformation that embraces
both functionality and aesthetics. Here are the 2024 Home Design Trends shaping our living spaces this
year that can transform your new Pratt home into a sanctuary of style and comfort:

1. Sustainable Choices

Environmental consciousness and sustainable furniture
is more than just a trend; it’s a necessity. Expect to see an increase in eco-
friendly materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled metals. These
pieces will not only reduce our carbon footprint but also lend a unique, rustic
charm to interiors.

2. Multi-functional Designs:

With the rise of remote work and smaller living
spaces, furniture that serves multiple purposes is gaining traction. Think modular
sofas with built-in storage or coffee tables that can be transformed into work
desks. These versatile pieces maximize space without compromising on style.

3. Minimalist Aesthetics:

The mantra “less is more” continues to dominate design.
Clean lines, neutral color palettes, and clutter-free spaces are in vogue.
Minimalist decor creates serene environments that promote relaxation and
mindfulness.

4. Tech-Integrated Furniture:

Smart homes deserve smart furniture. Expect to see
pieces equipped with wireless charging pads, built-in speakers, and LED lighting.
These innovations seamlessly blend technology with design, enhancing our lives.

5. Artisanal Craftsmanship:

In an age of mass production, 2024 Home Design Trends shine a light on furniture that
stands out for its craftsmanship and authenticity. Handcrafted pieces, be it
pottery, textiles, or furniture, add a personal touch to interiors, celebrating the
human touch in every creation.

6. Biophilic Design:

Inspired by nature, biophilic design incorporates natural
elements into our living spaces. Expect to see more indoor plants, natural
textures like stone and jute, and large windows that connect interiors with the
outdoors. This trend not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes well-
being by fostering a connection with nature.

7. Color Trend: Earthy Tones and Sage Green:

This year, nature dominates the color landscape. The 2024 Home Design Trends nod to earthy hues, reminiscent of tranquil forests and sandy terrains,
evoke a sense of grounding and serenity. Complementing this palette, sage
green emerges as the color du jour, infusing spaces with a refreshing,
rejuvenating vibe.

Contributed blog by Michael Turner, Owner at Huck and Peck

Top 2024 Home Decor Trends Combine Function and Aestheticsgmwebservices2024-01-18T18:19:51+00:00

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