No down payment for eligible buyers
Qualified borrowers may finance up to 100% of an eligible home's appraised value, subject to program requirements.
USDA rural home financing
A place to call home. Possibly $0 down.
USDA-guaranteed home loans can help eligible buyers purchase a primary residence in qualifying rural and suburban communities—with no down payment required for qualified borrowers.
Explore Home Buying →Check Eligibility✓ Eligible 0% down✓ 30-year fixed-rate✓ Primary residences
Why consider USDA?
Homeownership beyond the city limits
The USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program is designed to expand homeownership opportunities for eligible low- and moderate-income households.
Predictable fixed-rate terms
USDA guaranteed purchase loans use a 30-year fixed interest rate, helping keep principal and interest payments predictable.
More areas than you might expect
Some smaller towns and suburban communities qualify. Check a specific address on USDA's official eligibility map.
Who may qualify?
USDA eligibility at a glance
Eligibility depends on both the borrower and the property. Here are the main requirements to review.
- Home is in a USDA-designated eligible area
- Household income is within the applicable area limit
- Property will be your primary residence
- Stable income and acceptable repayment ability
- Applicable citizenship or eligible noncitizen requirements
Getting started
Three simple steps
Choose an area
Use the USDA map to check whether the neighborhood or home is potentially eligible.
Review your qualifications
Discuss household income, credit, employment, debts, and estimated housing costs.
Compare your options
Review available financing, closing costs, and whether USDA is the best fit for your purchase.
Frequently asked questions
USDA loan FAQs
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?
No. USDA guaranteed loans are not restricted to first-time buyers, provided the borrower and property meet program requirements.
Are USDA loans only for farms?
No. USDA loans can finance eligible primary residences in designated rural areas, including some smaller towns and suburban communities.
Do USDA loans have mortgage insurance?
They do not use conventional private mortgage insurance (PMI), but USDA guaranteed loans generally have an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee.
Is there a minimum credit score?
USDA does not set a universal minimum credit score for the guaranteed program, but lenders assess creditworthiness and may have additional requirements.
Can I use a USDA loan to refinance?
USDA offers certain refinance options for eligible existing USDA borrowers. Eligibility and terms vary by refinance program.
Find your next home
Could a USDA loan work for you?
Let's review the location, your financing goals, and the programs available for your situation.
Explore Purchase Options →Contact a Loan Advisor
Program availability, property and income eligibility, lender requirements, fees and loan terms apply. Information is educational and not a commitment to lend.
