Home » Calculators » Cash-Out Refinance Calculator

USDA Loan

If you’re eligible, you can buy a rural home with no down payment required.

Older man and woman, taking a walk outside in their rural town.Older man and woman, taking a walk outside in their rural town.

What To Know About USDA Loans

Who Are USDA Loans Best For?

A USDA loan might be a good mortgage option if you:

  • Have low to moderate income
  • Are buying a home in a designated rural area
  • Can’t afford a large down payment

How Do USDA Loans Work?

  • The home must be in a rural area with a population under 35,000.
  • You pay an upfront guarantee fee as well as ongoing mortgage insurance.
  • You typically make a $1,000 investment at closing that can be applied to any costs related to the transaction.
  • You can choose a fixed or adjustable interest rate.

How Do I Qualify For A USDA Loan?

  • You must meet income limits.
  • The property you’re buying must be in an eligible rural area.
  • You typically need a credit score of at least 620.
  • The home must be your primary residence.
  • You can check the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website to find out if you and the property are eligible.

Compare Mortgage Offers From Verified Lenders

Sponsored Results |

USDA Loan Benefits

  • No down payment is required.
  • USDA loans often have lower interest rates than conventional loans.
  • USDA loans often are cheaper than FHA loans.
  • You don’t need to be a first-time home buyer.
  • USDA loans don’t have prepayment penalties.

Refinancing With A USDA Loan

  • You can refinance up to 100% of your home’s value.
  • A USDA Streamlined refinance allows you to refinance without closing costs, an upfront fee or an appraisal.
  • A USDA Streamlined-Assist refinance requires no income or credit verification.
  • A non-streamlined refinance requires an appraisal but offers added equity and flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions about USDA loans? We’ve got answers.

No, but the home must be in a rural area deemed eligible by the USDA
No, USDA loans can only be used to purchase a primary residence.
The income limits for USDA loans vary depending on your location.

Ready To Buy A Home

Connect with a lender that will work with your unique financial situation, or use our calculators to estimate how much home you could afford.

Ready To Buy A Home