USDA Loans
USDA loans are low-interest mortgages with zero down payments designed for low-income Americans who don't have good enough credit to qualify for traditional mortgages. You must use a USDA loan to buy a home in a designated area that covers several rural and suburban locations.
There are three USDA home loan programs:
- Loan guarantees: The USDA guarantees a mortgage issued by a participating local lender — similar to an FHA loan and VA-backed loans — allowing you to get low mortgage interest rates, even without a down payment. If you put little or no money down, you will have to pay a mortgage insurance premium, though.
- Direct loans: Issued by the USDA, these mortgages are for low- and very low-income applicants. Income thresholds vary by region. With subsidies, interest rates can be as low as 1%.
- Home improvement loans and grants: These loans or outright financial awards permit homeowners to repair or upgrade their homes. Packages can also combine a loan and a grant, providing up to $27,500 in assistance.
Advantages of USDA loans:
- No Downpayment
- No Prepayment Penalty
- Finance closing cost into loan
- Flexible Credit Guideline/Lower Fixed Interest Rate