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USDA Loan

A USDA Rural Development loan offers zero down payment for eligible properties in qualifying rural and suburban areas.

Best for: Buyers purchasing in eligible rural or suburban areas who meet income guidelines
Check USDA Eligibility Ask Mia about this program

Min. Down Payment

0% (no down payment required)

Credit Guidance

Generally 640+ for automated approval; manual underwriting available in some cases

Income / DTI

Household income must not exceed 115% of area median income for the area

Occupancy

Primary residence only

Property Types

Single Family

The USDA Rural Development loan program offers 100% financing — no down payment — for eligible borrowers purchasing in qualifying areas. Despite the name, many suburban communities in and around Utah cities fall within USDA-eligible boundaries. USDA loans are designed to support homeownership in underserved communities and carry income limits to ensure the program serves moderate-income buyers. Household income limits are based on area median income and family size, and they vary by county. USDA loans are only for primary residences and must be used to purchase a property in a USDA-designated eligible area. An upfront and annual guarantee fee apply, similar in structure to mortgage insurance on other loan types. If you're open to purchasing outside of major urban cores, USDA is worth evaluating alongside FHA and other low-down-payment options. We can check both property eligibility and income eligibility quickly during a pre-approval conversation.

Key Benefits

  • No down payment required for eligible borrowers in qualifying areas
  • Below-market mortgage insurance costs compared to FHA
  • Available in many suburban and rural communities across Utah
  • Fixed-rate loan structure
  • Can sometimes be used to finance eligible closing costs into the loan

Considerations

  • Property must be in a USDA-designated eligible area
  • Household income must not exceed program limits for your area and family size
  • Primary residence only
  • Annual guarantee fee applies (similar to mortgage insurance)
  • Upfront guarantee fee is charged at closing (can be financed)

Common Misconceptions

  • • USDA-eligible areas include many suburban communities, not just remote rural land
  • • USDA is not only for farmers or agricultural use

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about USDA Loan?

Mia can help you understand if this program fits your situation — ask her anything about eligibility, timing, or how to get started.

Ask Mia

Helpful Calculators

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Work Hard Mortgage · NMLS #2396714 · Equal Housing Opportunity · Licensed in Utah. Program availability and guidelines may change. Final eligibility depends on credit, income, assets, property type, occupancy, and underwriting approval.