Fifth Third Physician Loan: Built for the Way Doctors Actually Buy Homes

When you’re a physician, the mortgage process rarely fits the “normal” borrower template. You might be relocating on a tight timeline, carrying student loans that don’t tell the full story, or buying before your income has fully ramped. Fifth Third’s physician loan is designed for that reality—more flexibility where doctors need it, and fewer roadblocks that slow down the move.

One of the biggest benefits is simple: no PMI, even with a low down payment. On a conventional loan, putting less than 20% down usually triggers private mortgage insurance—money you pay every month that doesn’t help you build equity. Fifth Third’s physician loan removes that cost, which can free up cash flow for things that actually matter early in your career: moving expenses, furnishing a home, childcare, or just breathing room.

The program is also structured to keep the loan size realistic while still giving you room to buy a strong home. Fifth Third can offer 100% financing up to $1 million, and for higher price points there are jumbo options available. That’s especially helpful for residents and early-career attendings who want to buy without draining savings, while still keeping the monthly payment in a range that feels sustainable.

Property flexibility matters too—especially when you’re trying to land in the right location near the hospital. Fifth Third can finance a single-family home, a condo, a planned unit development (PUD), and even a two-unit property (duplex). That gives physicians more options, whether you’re looking for a simple primary home or something with a little extra long-term potential.

What the application process looks like (without the mystery)

If you’ve never used a physician loan before, the process is easier than most people expect—especially when you’re working with someone who does this every day.

It usually starts with a pre-qualification, which is basically a quick, low-pressure conversation to estimate what you can afford. From there you move to pre-approval, where the bank does a deeper review of credit, income, and debt so you can shop with confidence and write stronger offers. Once you’re under contract, you’ll submit updated documents (pay stubs, bank statements, your signed purchase agreement), and the bank orders the appraisal and finishes underwriting. Then you close—and you’re done.

Why people work with Sandi

The mortgage itself matters, but experience matters too—especially for physicians. Sandi has spent more than 20 years specializing in physician mortgages, and that shows up in the little things that make the process smoother: how student loans are documented, how income is presented, how the file is packaged so it doesn’t get stuck in underwriting, and how quickly issues get handled when time is tight.

A quick reality check: compare options

Even if Fifth Third is a strong fit, it’s still smart to compare. Physician loan pricing is portfolio-driven, and banks move in and out of the market throughout the year. That’s why it’s worth looking at alternatives like Huntington, Fulton, and TD Bank, especially if you’re outside Fifth Third’s footprint or want a second opinion on structure and pricing.

A few smart habits once you’re in the home

Physician loans give you flexibility up front—but the win is what you do after closing. Keep your budget tight enough that the mortgage doesn’t become your whole life. Build an emergency fund. If your income jumps and life feels stable, consider occasional principal payments. And stay aware of refinance opportunities if rates shift or if you want to move from an ARM to a fixed rate later on.

If you want help navigating it, we can connect you with a verified banker and help you compare the best physician loan options for your situation.