This page is for you if…
- You want more space, a quieter neighborhood, or life outside the city.
- You’re looking at homes in smaller towns or on the edges of a metro area.
- You have a steady income but haven’t saved a big down payment.
- Your household income falls within your area’s USDA limits.
- You plan to live in the home as your primary residence.
How USDA financing works
USDA Rural Development loans are designed to make homeownership more affordable outside major cities. Here’s what to know.
USDA guaranteed loan
A 30-year fixed loan backed by USDA for buyers in eligible areas.
- $0 down for eligible buyers
- Competitive fixed rates
- Lower ongoing fees than many low-down options
Property eligibility
The home must be in a USDA-eligible area, and many suburban and small-town neighborhoods qualify.
- Eligibility is based on USDA maps
- Todd checks any address for you
- Primary residences only
Income eligibility
Household income must fall within limits for the county and household size.
- Limits vary by location and family size
- Todd runs the numbers with you
- Other loans may fit if you’re over the limit
Your path to the keys
- 1Free 15-minute callShare where you want to live, and Todd will check eligibility right away.
- 2Check the address & incomeConfirm the area and your household income limits.
- 3Get pre-approvedKnow your budget before you start touring homes.
- 4Contract & USDA reviewThe lender and USDA both review the loan, and Todd keeps it on schedule.
- 5Close & settle inClear updates all the way to closing day.
What you’ll want to have handy
- Photo ID
- Recent pay stubs (about 30 days)
- W-2s or tax returns for the last two years
- Two months of bank statements
- Info on any debts (car, student loans, credit cards)
- Income info for all adults in the household
Don’t have everything yet? That’s okay. Todd will tell you exactly what’s needed for your situation.
My wife of more than 20 years grew up on a farm in the rural West, and our family is deeply connected to agricultural life. I know how much a little land and a close-knit small town can mean. If that’s what you’re after, I’ll help you find out quickly whether USDA fits, and if it doesn’t, what will.
Good questions we hear a lot
Is it really $0 down?
For eligible buyers and properties, yes. You’ll still have closing costs, which sellers can sometimes help cover.
How do I know if an area qualifies?
USDA publishes eligibility maps, and many suburban areas qualify. Send Todd the address and he’ll check it for you.
What are the income limits?
They depend on your county and household size. Todd can tell you the limit for where you’re looking.
Are there fees?
USDA loans include an upfront guarantee fee (which can usually be financed) and a small annual fee.
Can I buy a farm or investment property?
No. USDA guaranteed loans are for primary residences, not income-producing farms or rentals.
“Todd was friendly, knowledgeable, and the whole process was quick and convenient.”
Find out if your dream area qualifies.
Send Todd an address or a town you love. He’ll check USDA eligibility and walk you through your numbers.