Your USDA Loan Application

A USDA Loan — or RD Loan — is a type of mortgage loan offered by the United States Department of Agriculture. It’s designed to help families in rural and some suburban areas purchase homes with no down payment, offering 100% financing to eligible buyers. 

USDA Loans aim to promote homeownership in less densely populated communities and are an excellent option for those meeting the program’s income and location criteria.

Qualification for a USDA Loan is based on several factors, including income, credit score, and property location. Generally, applicants must:

• Meet income eligibility, which varies by region and household size. Income limits are designed to ensure the program serves those who genuinely need it.
• Have a credit score of 640 or higher for automatic approval, though lower scores may be considered with additional underwriting.
• Purchase a property in an area designated as eligible by the USDA — typically rural areas and some suburban neighborhoods.

To apply for a USDA Loan, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:

• Income Eligibility: Your income must not exceed 115% of the median household income for the area, adjusted for family size.
• Property Eligibility: The home must be located in an area designated as rural by the USDA. 
• Primary Residence: The purchased property must be used as the buyer’s primary residence.
• Citizenship: Applicants must be US citizens, US non-citizen nationals, or Qualified Aliens.
• Credit Worthiness: A minimum credit score of 640 is recommended, but exceptions can be made for applicants with strong credit histories.

Income ceilings for the USDA loan program are determined by the location of the property and the size of your household. To qualify, you typically need to fall within the low-to-moderate income bracket when you make your USDA Loan application.

These limits can range from 80% to 115% of an area’s median household income, with variations based on factors like family size. The USDA loan is designed to cater to those who might find other loan options out of reach due to income constraints.

If you’re wondering whether you meet these criteria, request a callback and chat with us before you apply for a USDA Loan online. We’ll guide you through the specifics tailored to your situation.

Credit score requirements for USDA Loans can vary. While many lenders prefer a score of 640 or higher, the USDA Loan program is known for its flexibility. Even if your score is below this threshold, there are approval pathways, especially if other aspects of your financial profile are strong.

A robust credit score in the 720+ range can and will enhance your loan terms. If you’re uncertain about your credit standing or want to explore your options, talk to one of our Loan Officers for personalized guidance.

To qualify for a rural home development loan, a property must be situated in a USDA-designated rural area — typically open countryside and towns with populations under 35,000 residents.

The USDA Loan program aims to support homeownership in less densely populated areas, promoting community growth and development. Contact our team if you’ve set your sights on a property and are unsure if it meets these criteria. We’ll help verify if your dream home meets USDA Loan requirements.

The USDA Loan comes with a couple of primary fees: a 1% upfront guarantee fee due at closing and an annual 0.35% mortgage insurance fee, which is part of your monthly payment. 

However, weighing these fees against the significant benefits of USDA Loans, such as competitive interest rates and the possibility of no down payment, is essential. If you have any questions about which loan type is best for you, one of our Loan Officers will be happy to help you.