Purchase
USDA loan
A zero-down loan backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for homes in eligible rural and suburban areas, with household income limits.
Typical down payment
0% (eligible areas)
Typical credit guidance
640+ (typical lender guideline)
Ideal for
Moderate-income buyers purchasing in a USDA-eligible area outside major cities.
Key benefits
No down payment required
Lower mortgage insurance costs than many FHA loans
Can finance the upfront guarantee fee
Many suburban areas qualify, not just farmland
Requirements
The property must be in a USDA-eligible area
Household income must be within the limit for your county
The home must be your primary residence
Upfront and annual guarantee fees apply
Guidelines shown are typical examples and vary by lender, program and borrower. They are not a commitment to lend.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a home is in an eligible area?
USDA publishes an eligibility map. Send us the address and we’ll check it for you before you make an offer.
Does the income limit count everyone in my household?
Yes. USDA looks at total household income, not just the borrowers on the loan, with some deductions allowed.
Talk it through with a loan officer
We’ll compare this program with your other options and show the numbers side by side.
Guidelines shown are typical examples for illustration. Requirements vary by lender, program and borrower. Not a commitment to lend.
What borrowers say
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