South Congress—affectionately called SoCo—is Austin's most iconic urban neighborhood. From vintage boutiques and food trailers to walkable bars and Lady Bird Lake trails, this area embodies the city's creative spirit. Whether you're a first-time buyer eyeing a modern condo or a move-up buyer seeking a bungalow with character, Quantum Loans provides straightforward financing without the downtown runaround.
South Congress stretches from downtown Austin south along Congress Avenue, blending historic charm with urban energy. You'll find everything from renovated 1930s bungalows to new mixed-use condo towers with rooftop pools. Walkability is a major draw: residents can stroll to coffee shops, live music venues, and the monthly First Thursday festivities without starting a car.
Last updated: January 15, 2025
Get Pre-ApprovedSouth Congress stretches from downtown Austin south along Congress Avenue, blending historic charm with urban energy. You'll find everything from renovated 1930s bungalows to new mixed-use condo towers with rooftop pools. Walkability is a major draw: residents can stroll to coffee shops, live music venues, and the monthly First Thursday festivities without starting a car.
The housing market here is competitive and fast-paced. Condos and townhomes dominate new construction, while older single-family homes on tree-lined streets command premium prices. Inventory moves quickly, especially for properties near Barton Springs Pool or within walking distance of downtown. Expect higher price-per-square-foot than suburban areas, but you're paying for location, lifestyle, and zero commute. HOA fees are common in condo buildings, so factor those into your monthly budget.
Most South Congress buyers use conventional financing for condos and single-family homes. With 5–10% down and good credit, you'll access competitive rates and flexible terms. Conventional loans also work well for investors buying rental properties in the area.
FHA mortgages help first-time buyers break into urban Austin with as low as 3.5% down. FHA is popular for older bungalows and FHA-approved condo buildings. Be aware that some newer or smaller condo associations may not be FHA-certified, so confirm early.
Veterans and active-duty service members can use VA financing for South Congress properties, including VA-approved condos. Zero down and no mortgage insurance make this attractive, though you'll need to verify condo certification and meet appraisal requirements.
Some luxury condos and renovated historic homes exceed conventional loan limits. Jumbo mortgages are available for well-qualified buyers, typically requiring 15–20% down and strong credit.
South Congress is popular with first-timers who value walkability and culture. Explore first-time buyer options that combine low down payments with competitive rates. Ask about Travis County down payment assistance programs.
Jake sold his suburban home and downsized to a one-bedroom condo near St. Edward's University. He used a conventional loan with 15% down, loved the walkable lifestyle, and appreciated his lender's quick turnaround on condo certification.
Maya works in Austin's film industry and wanted to live near South Lamar. An FHA loan with 3.5% down helped her buy a studio condo in a newly converted building. She used our calculator to compare monthly payments across different price points.
Carlos bought a renovated bungalow near Elizabeth Street and rents it to UT grad students. His conventional investment property loan required 20% down, but the location's rental demand made the numbers work beautifully.
Share your income, credit, and asset info, and we'll issue a pre-approval letter that South Congress agents and sellers respect. Most applicants complete this step in one to two business days. Gather your documents checklist ahead of time to speed things up.
With pre-approval in hand, tour homes with your realtor. When you find the right property, we help you craft an offer that balances purchase price, contingencies, and closing timeline. In competitive neighborhoods, speed and clarity win.
Once you're under contract, we order the appraisal and submit your loan file for underwriting review. Stay responsive—underwriters may request updated pay stubs or clarification on deposits. Most South Congress purchases move smoothly when borrowers reply promptly.
At the title office, you'll sign your final documents and receive keys to your new home. We coordinate with your agent, title company, and seller to ensure a seamless closing. Typical timelines run 28–38 days from contract to closing.
Conventional loans typically require 5–10% down for primary residences, while FHA allows 3.5% down if the condo is FHA-approved. Investment properties usually need 20–25% down. Your lender will help you choose the right option.
Most transactions close in 28–35 days. Condo purchases may take slightly longer due to HOA certification and document review. Having your financial documents organized and responding quickly to underwriter requests keeps things on track.
Not all. Lenders require condo associations to meet financial and insurance standards. FHA and VA maintain approved condo lists. Your loan officer will verify eligibility early in the process to avoid surprises.
Yes. Seller credits are common in urban markets, especially for properties that have been listed longer or during slower seasons. Your agent and lender will advise on how much to request without weakening your offer.
Self-employed borrowers need two years of tax returns and possibly profit-and-loss statements. Austin's creative economy means lenders here are experienced with freelance and gig-economy income. Work with a loan officer who understands non-traditional income documentation.
Ready to buy or refinance in South Congress? Call us at (512) 314-0389 or click below to get pre-approved online. We're local, responsive, and focused on getting you to the closing table without the runaround.
"They got me into my SoCo condo with 5% down—couldn't have done it without them."
"Fast, responsive, and honest. Closed in 30 days with zero drama."
"Best lender I've worked with in Austin. Highly recommend."
Quantum Loans
1234 Congress Ave, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 314-0389
NMLS ID: 2624644
Licenses: TX SML, NMLS 2624644
Equal Housing Lender. Rates shown are for illustration only and are not a commitment to lend. Terms subject to credit approval and underwriting. Texas Consumer Complaint/Recovery Fund disclosures as applicable. Loan limits and assistance programs may change; verify current figures before applying.
Call us: +1 (512) 314-0389
Email: 
