USDA Rural Development Loan
with 0% Down
USDA loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help moderate-income buyers purchase a primary residence with no down payment — often in rural and suburban areas.
What Is a USDA Rural Development Loan?
A USDA loan (also called a Rural Development loan) is a mortgage backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that can offer 100% financing—meaning no down payment—for eligible buyers and properties.
Two things matter most: the home must be in an eligible area and your household income must fall within USDA limits. Many suburban communities qualify—it's not just farmland.
As a mortgage broker, we shop across multiple lenders to find you the best rate and terms for your USDA scenario.
Get My Free USDA Quote →Why Buyers Love USDA Loans
USDA is one of the best-kept secrets in home financing—especially if you want to buy with little to no cash out of pocket.
0% Down Payment
Qualified borrowers can finance 100% of the purchase price. Great if you have income but not a big pile of savings.
More Areas Qualify Than You Think
Many small towns and suburban areas are eligible. We can quickly confirm address eligibility for you.
Competitive Rates
Because the loan is government-backed, USDA rates are often very competitive versus other low-down programs.
Seller Help Often Possible
Seller contributions can sometimes help cover closing costs, reducing your out-of-pocket cash to close.
Designed for Moderate-Income Buyers
USDA is built to help moderate-income households become homeowners—without needing perfect finances.
Stable 30-Year Fixed
Most USDA borrowers choose a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with predictable payments.
USDA Loan Requirements
These are general guidelines. USDA eligibility is mostly about address + household income. Get a quote and we’ll confirm exactly what you qualify for.
Check My Eligibility →From Eligibility Check to Keys in 4 Steps
We start by verifying address + income eligibility, then get you pre-approved so you can shop confidently.
Check Eligibility
We confirm area eligibility and estimate household income limits so you know if USDA is even on the table.
Get Pre-Approved
We review documents and submit for underwriting so you can shop with confidence.
Go Under Contract
Once you find a home, we order appraisal and move the file through underwriting.
Close & Move In
We coordinate closing and walk you through the final numbers so there are no surprises.
USDA vs. Other Loan Programs
Not sure if USDA is right for you? Here is how it stacks up against FHA, conventional, and VA.
| Feature | FHA Loan | Conventional | VA Loan | USDA Loan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min. Down Payment | 3.5% | 3-5% | 0% | 0% |
| Min. Credit Score | 580+ | 620+ | No set minimum | Often 640+ easiest path |
| Monthly MI / Fee | Upfront + monthly | Cancels at 20% equity | ✓ None | Annual fee 0.35% |
| Area Restrictions | None | None | None | ✓ Eligible areas only |
| Income Limits | None | None | None | ✓ Yes (household) |
| Occupancy | Primary only | Any | Primary only | Primary only |
| Best For | Lower credit / low down | Strong credit / more down | Eligible veterans | 0% down buyers who qualify |
USDA Loan Pros and Cons
USDA is incredible when you qualify. Here is the honest tradeoff.
✓ Pros
- 0% down for eligible buyers and properties
- Competitive interest rates in many cases
- Seller contributions can help with closing costs
- Many suburban areas qualify (not just “rural”)
- Stable 30-year fixed mortgage options
- Great fit for moderate-income households
✗ Cons
- Home must be in a USDA-eligible area
- Household income must be within USDA limits
- Upfront and annual guarantee fees apply
- Primary residence only (no rentals/investment)
- Documentation can be stricter than other programs
- If you exceed income limits, USDA is not available
What Our Borrowers Say
We have helped hundreds of families get into homes. Here is what some of them had to say.
USDA Loan FAQ
Most USDA questions come down to address eligibility and household income limits.
Get My Free USDA Quote →Ready to See If You
Qualify for a USDA Loan?
Get your free quote in minutes. No pressure—just clear answers on eligibility, payments, and your best next step.