USDA Home Mortgage Lender
100% financing for homes in USDA-defined rural areas.
Connect With A Loan OfficerYour next home might be more affordable than you think
If you’ve been dreaming of owning a home outside the city, a USDA loan could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA loans make it possible to buy a home in eligible rural and suburban areas with zero down payment and flexible credit requirements.
We’ve helped countless buyers find their way into homes they love through USDA financing. Explore all of our home loan options to see how USDA compares.
Highlights & Benefits
See what a USDA loan can do for you
USDA loans offer 100% financing, meaning eligible buyers can buy a home without putting any money down. That’s a significant advantage for buyers who have steady income but haven’t had time to build up savings.
USDA loans don’t require perfect credit. Lenders look at the full picture of your financial situation, making it more accessible for a wider range of buyers.
USDA loans come with competitive interest rates and predictable monthly payments, so you can plan ahead with confidence.
Beyond the down payment savings, closing costs can often be rolled into the loan or covered through seller concessions, keeping your upfront costs low.
USDA loans require a 1% upfront guarantee fee in place of private mortgage insurance, and it can be financed directly into your mortgage so you’re not paying it out of pocket.
About 97% of U.S. land is eligible for USDA financing, including many small towns and suburban communities on the edges of larger cities.
Common Questions About USDA Loans
You might be surprised. The USDA's definition of "rural" is much broader than most people expect. Many suburban communities and small towns near major cities qualify. The best way to find out is to check the USDA's official eligibility map or simply ask your loan officer. We look this up for buyers all the time.
The home you're buying must meet a few basic criteria. It needs to be your primary residence, not a vacation home or investment property. It should be in good, safe condition without major repairs needed. Single-family homes are the most common choice, but some condos, multi-unit dwellings, and new construction can also qualify. There's no acreage limit, though the property can't have income-producing features like barns or silos.
Yes. USDA loans are designed for low- to moderate-income households, so your total household income must fall at or below 115% of the median income for your area. That limit varies by location and household size. One thing many buyers don't realize: the USDA looks at the income of all adults living in the home, not just the people on the loan. Your loan officer can help you run the numbers quickly.
The biggest advantage of a USDA loan is the zero down payment requirement, which even FHA loans (which require at least 3.5% down) can't match. If you're a veteran or active-duty service member, a VA loan also offers zero-down financing and may be worth comparing. Buyers with strong credit and savings might find a conventional fixed-rate mortgage saves money over time. Not sure which fits best? That's what we're here for.
Yes. If you already have a USDA loan, you may be able to refinance into a lower rate through the USDA Streamlined Refinance program. Ask your loan officer whether you qualify.
Your Homeownership Partner
At First Heritage Mortgage, we’re more than just your USDA home mortgage lender — we’re your partners in your journey to homeownership. With years of experience in rural home financing, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities in these communities. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you navigate this exciting next chapter.
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Get in touch with our team of USDA mortgage loan experts to learn more about the loan option that’s best for you.
Connect With A Loan OfficerTHIS PRODUCT OR SERVICE HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED OR ENDORSED BY ANY GOVERNMENTAL AGENCY, AND THIS OFFER IS NOT BEING MADE BY AN AGENCY OF THE GOVERNMENT.