USDAUSDA loans
USDA loans for homes beyond the city
The USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program helps moderate-income households buy in eligible rural and suburban areas. Many communities outside city limits qualify, and you don't have to be a first-time buyer.
- Licensed in Arizona
- NMLS #2786915
- Se habla español
Who it's for
Who USDA loans work best for
Buyers outside city limits
Eligibility is based on the property's location, and many small towns and suburban areas qualify.
Moderate-income households
Total household income must be under the limit for your county and household size.
Buyers with limited savings
Flexible down payment requirements and a guarantee fee that can be financed reduce the cash you need upfront.
How it works
How USDA loans work
USDA Rural Development guarantees loans made by approved lenders. Two checks come first: whether the property is in an eligible area, and whether your household income is under the limit.
Property eligibility
USDA publishes an eligibility map, and areas are reviewed from time to time. Send us an address and we'll confirm it before you fall in love with a house.
Household income limits
USDA counts income from every adult who will live in the home, not only the people on the loan, and compares it to your county's limit after allowed deductions.
Guarantee fee
USDA loans include an upfront guarantee fee that can be financed, plus an annual fee paid monthly.
Primary residence only
The home must be your main residence. Working farms and income-producing properties aren't eligible.
Document checklist
What you'll need to apply
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Blue Reserve Mortgage · Document checklist · USDA loans
Income
Assets
Identity and property
Compare
USDA vs. FHA at a glance
| This programUSDA | FHA | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Eligible rural and suburban areas | Anywhere |
| Income limits | Yes | No |
| Mortgage insurance or fees | Upfront and annual guarantee fee | Upfront and annual premium |
| Property use | Primary residence | Primary residence |
Program availability and guidelines vary by lender and are subject to change. This is not a commitment to lend.
Questions
Common questions
How do I know if a home is in an eligible area?
USDA's eligibility map shows eligible areas, and they're reviewed periodically. We confirm eligibility for the specific address before you make an offer.
What counts toward the income limit?
USDA looks at the income of all adults living in the home, then allows certain deductions, such as for dependents and childcare. We'll run the numbers with you.
Do I have to be a first-time homebuyer?
No. You don't need to be a first-time buyer, as long as you meet the income and property requirements and the home will be your primary residence.
Are USDA loans only for farms?
No. Despite the name, USDA home loans are for primary residences in eligible areas, including many small towns and suburbs. Working farms aren't eligible.
Talk to a loan officer
Let's check your address and income
Share a few details and a loan officer will confirm USDA eligibility and compare your options.
- We compare multiple wholesale lenders for you
- English or Spanish, from application to closing
- No cost to ask questions
Prefer to talk? Call
928-750-6064Or choose a loan officer