USDA Loans

The USDA home loan program is one of the best mortgage programs available. Also known as rural development loans, you do not actually need to buy a home in a rural area to qualify.

USDA home loans are government-backed loans that allow you to buy a home with no money down. Home buyers can even finance closing costs into the loan or get seller assistance, potentially enjoying a no money down mortgage with 100% financing.

The USDA program has been around since 1991. It was designed to boost homeownership rates in rural areas, but it is not just rural areas that are covered by this flexible loan program.

Benefits of a USDA Mortgage

The USDA rural home loan program offers several advantages:

100% financing possible with no down payment necessary. The VA mortgage is the only other loan program with this benefit.
You can finance closing costs.
Looser credit requirements than other programs.
You can qualify with limited credit history, or even foreclosure or bankruptcy on your credit history.
USDA rural loans are designed for lower-income buyers.
Interest rates are very competitive.

Drawbacks to USDA Loans

Despite these benefits, there are some drawbacks to keep in mind. The USDA rural mortgage program has strict income requirements based on median income in the area. If your income is even a bit too high, you will not qualify. You must also buy a home in a HUD-designated rural area which may be rural, the suburbs, or an area in need of revitalization.

USDA Direct Loan vs USDA Guaranteed Loan

There are two types of USDA loans to choose from – direct loan and guaranteed loan. A USDA direct loan is made by the USDA to low income borrowers with a household income below 80% of the median income in their county. A USDA guaranteed loan is made by the bank. USDA guaranteed loans are easier to qualify in terms of income standards.

Requirements for a USDA Home Loan

You will need to meet these requirements to be eligible for a rural housing loan:

Home must be in a HUD-designated rural area.
You must use the home as your primary residence.
Your monthly housing costs cannot be more than 29% of your pre-tax monthly income.
Your monthly debt and housing payments cannot exceed 41% of your pre-tax income.
You must have a credit score of at least 640.
You must meet income guidelines based on your family size, state and county.

To See If You Qualify, Call Summit Funding Today!

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