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What is considered rural for a USDA loan?

Written by - February 23, 2023

There are many misconceptions about rural areas and what constitutes one for the purpose of qualifying for a USDA loan. The USDA has set specific requirements for what they define as rural for their loan programs, including a variety of factors that will determine whether your area qualifies.

USDA Loan Basics

Before we dive into defining what is considered rural for a USDA loan, let's cover some basics about the loan itself. USDA loans are offered by the United States Department of Agriculture to help low and moderate-income families purchase homes in rural areas. They have a number of benefits, including 100% financing, low interest rates, and no mortgage insurance required.

What is Rural?

Now that we have some context, we can talk about what is considered rural for a USDA loan. The USDA has very specific guidelines for what they define as rural, which are based on population density and proximity to urban areas.

  • Rural areas have a population of 35,000 or less and are not next to or adjacent to an urban area.
  • The USDA also considers some suburban areas to be eligible, if they are still considered rural by the USDA standards.

How to Check Eligibility

If you are not sure whether your intended property is in a USDA-eligible area, you can easily check by visiting the USDA website and entering your property address. If your property falls within an eligible area, you may be able to obtain a USDA loan to help finance your home purchase.

Benefits of Rural Living

Living in a rural area has a number of benefits. Not only can you enjoy stunning natural landscapes and a slower pace of life, but you may also be eligible for one of these exceptional benefits.

  • USDA loans have low interest rates, meaning you will pay less in interest on your home loan.
  • With 100% financing, you can get into your new home without the need for a down payment.
  • Unlike other home loans, USDA loans do not require mortgage insurance, which can save you a substantial amount of money over your loan term.

Qualifying for a USDA Loan

To qualify for a USDA loan, you will need to meet some basic eligibility requirements. You must have:

  • A credit score of at least 640
  • A debt-to-income ratio of 41% or less
  • Stable, verifiable income
  • U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

If you meet these requirements and your property is located in a USDA-eligible area, you may be able to take advantage of the many benefits of a USDA loan.

Why Choose Mortgage Brokers Pro?

If you are interested in a USDA loan and wondering where to start, look no further than Mortgage Brokers Pro . We are a trusted lender and have helped countless families achieve their dream of home ownership with our expert guidance and competitive rates. With personalized service and commitment to your satisfaction, we strive to make the home-buying process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, rural areas can be defined in a number of ways, but for the purposes of a USDA loan, they are generally areas with a population of 35,000 or less and a reasonable distance from an urban area. If you are interested in a USDA loan, be sure to check your eligibility on the USDA website and consider working with Mortgage Brokers Pro for the expertise and support you need to make your dream of owning a home a reality.

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