Gainesville’s Trusted Mortgage Lender
Chris Doering Mortgage is committed to providing knowledgeable, ethical mortgage service to homebuyers and homeowners across Gainesville and all of North Central Florida. Whether you’re purchasing your first home near the University of Florida, upsizing in Haile Plantation, or refinancing in Tioga, we guide you through every step of the process: answering questions, explaining your options in plain language, and finding the mortgage that fits your life.
Chris Doering Mortgage was built in Gainesville, and we’re proud to serve all of Florida.
Home Loan Options in Gainesville, FL
No two homebuyers are the same and neither are their mortgages. Our Gainesville mortgage experts work with a wide range of loan programs so you get the right fit, not just the easiest option.
Conventional Loans
Conventional loans are a popular choice for buyers with solid credit and steady income. With competitive interest rates and flexible term options (15, 20, or 30 years), conventional financing is ideal for purchasing or refinancing a primary home, vacation property, or investment property in the Gainesville area.
FHA Loans
An FHA loan is backed by the Federal Housing Administration and designed to make homeownership more accessible. If you’re buying your first home in Gainesville with a lower down payment or a credit score that’s still building, an FHA loan may open the door faster than you think. Down payments can be as low as 3.5%.
VA Loans
Gainesville is home to a strong veteran community, and we’re proud to help eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses take full advantage of the VA loan benefit. VA loans offer $0 down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive rates — one of the most powerful home financing tools available.
USDA Loans
Alachua County includes rural and semi-rural areas that qualify for USDA financing. If you’re looking at homes in areas like Newberry, Archer, or Alachua, a USDA loan could mean zero down payment and low mortgage insurance costs.
Jumbo Loans
For higher-priced properties that exceed conventional loan limits, we offer jumbo mortgage solutions with competitive terms. Whether you’re purchasing a luxury home in Tioga or a larger property in the Gainesville suburbs, our team will find the right jumbo program for your situation.
Refinancing
Already own a home in Gainesville? Refinancing can lower your monthly payment, reduce your interest rate, shorten your loan term, or give you access to your home’s equity. Our team will analyze your current loan and show you exactly what refinancing could save you — no pressure, just numbers.
Why Gainesville Homebuyers Choose Chris Doering Mortgage
Choosing a mortgage lender is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make. Here’s what sets our Gainesville team apart:
We’re local. Chris Doering Mortgage is based in Alachua County. We know the Gainesville market — the neighborhoods, the price trends, and the local nuances that out-of-state lenders miss.
We’re honest. We explain every fee, every term, and every option in plain language. No surprises at closing.
We’re fast. In a competitive Gainesville real estate market, speed matters. Our streamlined process means pre-approvals and closings happen on your timeline.
Meet Gainesville’s Own, Chris Doering
Growing up in Gainesville, Florida, as the son of a University of Florida professor, Chris Doering is a lifelong Gator. He excelled both academically and athletically at Gainesville’s P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School and went on to have one of the finest football careers in the history of the University of Florida and the Southeastern Conference.
In addition to owning Chris Doering Mortgage, Chris is actively involved in the Gainesville community, working with many charitable organizations and maintaining a robust professional speaking schedule that takes him nationwide.
Serving Gainesville and All of North Central Florida
We’re proud to help homebuyers and homeowners across the greater Gainesville area, including:
- Gainesville
- Newberry
- Alachua
- Archer
- Hawthorne
- High Springs
- Micanopy
- Waldo
And because we’re licensed statewide, we can serve you anywhere in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mortgages in Gainesville
What credit score do I need to buy a home in Gainesville, FL?
There’s no single answer — it really depends on the loan program and your overall financial picture. The good news is that most buyers are in better shape than they think. Give us a call and we’ll take a look together.
Does Chris Doering Mortgage work with first-time homebuyers?
Absolutely. First-time buyers are a core part of what we do. We’ll walk you through every step — from understanding your options to signing at closing — and make sure you feel confident in every decision along the way.
How do I know which loan is right for me?
That’s exactly what we’re here for. There are a lot of options out there, and the right one depends on your goals, your timeline, and your financial picture. We’ll help you sort through it.