USDA Loan

What makes a USDA loan desirable is they are ZERO down, LOW interest rate mortgages. The United States Department of Agriculture guarantees these loans. They help very low-to-moderate income buyers become homeowners. These loans are designed to support growth outside of major metropolitan areas and promote homeownership in lower income families. The home must be in a rural area, which the USDA defines as having a population under 35,000. There are also a few suburban areas that meet the USDA criteria. The eligibility maps do change as areas grow and develop but you do not have to own a farm or raise livestock. Read below for more information on qualifying for this type of loan.

Overview

To qualify for a USDA loan, you:

Do not have to be a first-time homebuyer
Do not have to be employed in the agricultural industry, even though the Department of Agriculture backs the loans
Must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen (permanent resident)

USDA Loan FAQs

How do I qualify for a USDA loan in Florida

You must show two years of employment history with at least six months in your current position. USDA loans also require a FICO score of at least 640 and your debt-to-income ratio must be 41% or less.

What areas in Florida are USDA eligible?

While Florida is mostly considered urban, there are some areas that can qualify as rural. In Southern Florida, there are a few areas in Hendry and Glades county that qualify for USDA loans. In Northern Florida, there are some regions such as Gilchrist and Lafayette that have rural areas. In Central Florida, Marion and Lake county have some areas that qualify. Contact us for more details on specific USDA approved areas.

What is the max income for a USDA loan in Florida.

Household income limits for USDA loans vary from county to county in every state. The average limits in Florida are between $117,000 to $155,000.

How long does it take the USDA to approve a loan?

The average USDA loan approval can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days. This depends on your situation and what has to be reviewed and approved. Our experienced mortgage loan officers will be able to give you a better time frame estimate for your qualification.