All loan programsLoan program
USDA Loan
100% financing for eligible homes in rural and suburban areas.
Down payment
$0
Min credit score
640
Income limit
115% of area median
Guarantee fee
1% upfront + 0.35% annual
Overview
About the USDA loan
USDA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and offer zero down payment financing for moderate‑income buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas.
Best for
Who this fits
- Buyers in rural or suburban areas
- Moderate‑income households
- First‑time buyers with no down payment
Pros
- No down payment needed
- Lower mortgage insurance than FHA
- Below‑market interest rates
- Closing costs can be financed
Things to consider
- Income limits apply
- Geographic restrictions
- Primary residence only
Requirements
What you'll need
- Property in USDA‑eligible area
- Household income within USDA limits
- Credit score 640+ for streamlined approval
- Primary residence only
FAQ
Common questions
How do I check if a property is USDA‑eligible?
We can look it up for you, or you can use the USDA's eligibility map at eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov.
Are USDA loans only for farms?
No — most USDA loans are for typical single‑family homes in towns and suburbs that fall just outside major metro areas.
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