I am a traveling nurse. How can I get an owner-occupy loan while transient?

[Ivan Schmidt]

I am frustrated with the poor quality of information for my situation — maybe y'all can help!

My permanent address (tax home) is near Knoxville. My work will soon be taking me to North Carolina. I am fully prepared to buy a house in Knoxville, but lender says conventional primary residence loan is not possible unless I work within one hour of town. Is this requirement set in stone, or should I spend tomorrow calling a ton of different lenders?

I have 2+ years of stable income, $50k liquid, reserve funds, and 740+ credit. Would really like to avoid 25% down if at all possible

[Kathie Russell]

I would find a new lender.  You absolutely can buy a home as a primary residence.  You don't have to work there forever, you are allowed to travel for work.  It has to be your intent at the time you purchase to occupy as your primary residence.  There is no requirement that you cannot travel to work away from your primary residence.