Loan programs

USDA Loans


A USDA loan is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It’s designed to help buyers purchase homes in eligible rural and suburban areas with no down payment and affordable monthly payments.


Affordable + zero down.

USDA loans offer:

  • No down payment required
  • Low mortgage insurance costs
  • Competitive interest rates
  • Flexible credit and income guidelines
  • Affordable monthly payments

These loans help make homeownership possible in approved rural and small-town communities.

USDA loans have three main requirements:

1. Location

The property must be in a USDA-eligible rural or suburban area. (Many areas qualify even if they don't feel “rural.”)

2. Income

Your household income must fall within USDA limits for your county and family size.

3. Credit & Debt

General Guidelines Include:

  • 640+ credit score (lower scores could still be approved by providing additional documentation)
  • Stable income history
  • Manageable debt-to-income ratios

USDA loans require the home to meet basic safety and livability standards.

The appraiser checks for:

  • Functional utilities
  • Safe structure and roof
  • No major hazards
  • Suitable condition

Most move-in-ready homes qualify without issue.

USDA may be better if you:

  • Want no down payment
  • Are buying in an eligible area
  • Have moderate income
  • Want lower mortgage insurance than FHA

FHA may be better if you:

  • Exceed USDA income limits
  • Want more flexibility in property location
  • Prefer broader loan qualification guidelines

Conventional may be better if you:

  • Have stronger credit
  • Want mortgage insurance that falls off
  • Are purchasing outside eligible areas

I’ll compare all three options side by side so you can choose the best fit.