What type of house qualifies for a USDA loan?

What type of house qualifies for a USDA loan?

When you hear about USDA Home loan benefits such 100% financing or the ability to finance closing costs, it can be easy to focus on the financial advantages and then forget about what kind of property is actually eligible for a USDA loan .

A key step is to first understand what type of house qualifies for a USDA loan and then also be aware of what of properties are considered ineligible for USDA financing.

Also, I want to thank everyone who’s already downloaded our USDA Blueprint for succss. We are getting great feedback on it, and if you have not yet done so just simply click the link below.

So, what type of house qualifies for a USDA loan?

First off, remember that the USDA Rural Home Loan Program does NOT have set loan limits like FHA or Conventional loans. The maximum loan amount is based on the applicant’s qualifying ability.

Although many may automatically assume that higher priced homes are not eligible, that is simply false! Homes that are in subdivisions, gated communities, and even townhomes could all be considered a type of house that qualifies for a USDA loan, pending they are in a USDA eligible area.

While it is common to view a traditional single family residence as a type of house that qualifies for a USDA loan, a condominium may also be eligible pending the project itself can be approved or already has an existing type of approval from another agency such as FHA, VA, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac. USDA eligibility for condominiums can be on a case by case basis, so contact my team for assistance on your next condo scenario.

As of December 1st 2014 USDA guidelines changed and homes with in-ground pools are now a type of house that qualifies for a USDA loan! As you may remember, previous USDA guidelines made it challenging for this type of house to qualify for a USDA loan, but thankfully that is long gone!

Now, let’s quickly  review what properties are NOT considered eligible for a USDA loan:

• Existing Manufactured Homes,
• Investment Properties or 2nd Homes,
  (USDA Loans are only eligible for primary residences)
• Properties that include buildings which are designed to be used principally for income-producing purposes such as a barn, silo, or other type of commercial operation for example.

While this is not an all inclusive list, it is important to remember that the type of house that qualifies for a USDA loan must be predominantly residential in use, character, and appearance.

As you can see, the USDA loan program can be extremely powerful, however be careful you are working with a lender who has a proven track record of success under this unique program.

As a USDA approved lender, we are here to help. Just call or email to discuss your scenario and let us show you the “Metroplex” difference!

Let’s make it a great day, and I look forward to seeing you right here for the next tip of the week!