USDA Loans
Government‑backed, 100% financing for eligible rural and some suburban areas.
0% downFlexible credit
Program Details
Minimum Down0%
Credit ScoreFlexible
DTI RatioTypically <= 41% (exceptions possible)
PMI/MIPNo PMI; annual guarantee fee applies
Rate CapsIncome and geographic eligibility apply
Key Benefits
- Zero down payment
- Low mortgage insurance (guarantee fee)
- Lenient credit guidelines
Program Tags
ruralzero-down
Who It's Best For
- Rural and eligible suburban areas
- Zero‑down buyers
Advantages
- 0% down
- Low rates
- Flexible credit
Considerations
- •Geographic and income limits
- •Guarantee fee applies
Eligibility Requirements
- Property in USDA‑eligible area
- Household income within limits
- Primary residence
Additional Requirements
- USDA appraisal and property standards
- Income and occupancy verification
- Guarantee fee financed or paid at closing
Pro Tips
- Check address eligibility and local income caps
- Consider Section 502 Direct vs. Guaranteed options
Also Known As
Rural DevelopmentSection 502
Use the USDA property eligibility map to confirm the address.
Direct loans are made by USDA for very low‑income borrowers; Guaranteed loans are made by lenders with USDA backing.
Calculate Your Payment
Use our interactive calculators to estimate your monthly payment and see how much you could save.
Payment Example
Loan amount
$475,000
Est. P&I
$3,160/mo
Estimate only. Taxes, insurance, HOA, MI/MIP, and points/credits not included. Not a commitment to lend.
Scenario Snapshot
Down payment
$60,000
Loan amount
$540,000
Typical Documents
- Last 30 days of pay stubs or income docs
- Last 2 years W-2s or 1099s (as applicable)
- Most recent 2 months of bank statements
- Government-issued ID
Exact items vary by program and scenario.
Loan Limits (Estimate)
Use your ZIP to check your state and review baseline limits. County limits may be higher.
Enter a ZIP to detect your state. County-specific limits vary.
Conforming baseline (1‑unit)$766,550
FHA floor (1‑unit)$498,257
FHA ceiling (1‑unit)$1,149,825
Actual county/metro limits vary. See official resources at FHFA and HUD.
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