USDA Rural Home Loans

Buy a Home with No Down Payment

USDA loans offer an affordable path to homeownership for eligible buyers in rural and suburban communities. Backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these loans feature zero down payment, low rates, and flexible credit guidelines—making them ideal for low- to moderate-income borrowers. CTC Mortgage proudly helps buyers in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina navigate USDA eligibility and get approved with ease.

Achieve Homeownership with USDA – No Down Payment

USDA home loans are part of the Rural Development initiative from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. They are designed to make homeownership accessible for qualified buyers in USDA-designated rural and suburban areas by offering 100% financing—no down payment required. Contrary to common misconceptions, USDA loans are not limited to farms or remote areas. Many suburban neighborhoods across our service regions qualify for this unique opportunity.

Benefits of USDA Loans

Buyers choose USDA loans for several key advantages over other mortgage types:


  • Zero Down Payment – Purchase a home without needing a large upfront investment.
  • Lower Interest Rates – USDA rates are often competitive and lower than conventional.
  • Affordable Mortgage Insurance – The upfront and monthly guarantee fees are usually cheaper than FHA mortgage insurance.
  • Flexible Credit Guidelines – While most lenders prefer a credit score of 640+, USDA guidelines allow for case-by-case approval.
  • Closing Costs Flexibility – If the appraised value is higher than the purchase price, closing costs may be rolled into the loan.

USDA Loan Eligibility & Requirements

To qualify for a USDA loan, two main criteria must be met:


  1. Property Location – The home must be located in a USDA-eligible area. CTC Mortgage can help confirm if your desired address qualifies.
  2. Income Limits – Household income must fall under a certain threshold, typically no more than 115% of the area’s median income. For example, in many counties a household of four may need to earn under $110,000 to qualify.

Borrowers must also intend to occupy the home as their primary residence, and while USDA has no set credit minimum, most lenders require a 640+ score.

Where Can You Use a USDA Loan?

You might be surprised by how many communities qualify for USDA financing. In our service areas, examples include:


  • Florida: Western areas of Palm Beach County and small towns outside metro zones
  • Georgia: Communities near Moultrie and beyond
  • North Carolina: Suburbs surrounding Charlotte, including Cabarrus and Gaston counties
  • South Carolina: Areas around Summerville, Greenville, and more

Our team will walk you through the eligibility map and income caps in your specific region.

USDA vs. FHA or VA Loans

While USDA, FHA, and VA loans all support homebuyers with limited savings, USDA stands out for offering zero down with no military service requirement. FHA loans allow low credit scores and 3.5% down but come with higher mortgage insurance costs. VA loans offer similar no-down-payment benefits, but only for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and spouses. USDA loans are a strong alternative for qualified civilian buyers in eligible areas.

Get Started with a USDA Loan

CTC Mortgage makes the USDA loan process simple. We’ll verify your income and help you check property eligibility, then guide you through pre-approval and application. Our team understands the details of USDA guidelines and can help you navigate closing costs, credit issues, and documentation. Contact us today to see if you qualify and take advantage of 100% financing with a USDA mortgage.

Explore Other Loan Options

Looking for a different type of mortgage? Compare our other home purchase programs:

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Us today for a free pre-approval or to learn more about your mortgage choices.

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Faqs about USDA Loans

Answers to common mortgage questions

  • What is a USDA home loan, and who is it for?

    A USDA home loan is a government-backed mortgage offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It helps eligible buyers with low to moderate income purchase homes in rural and suburban areas with no down payment. These loans are available to both first-time and repeat buyers who meet the income and location guidelines. CTC Mortgage can help determine if a USDA loan fits your situation and guide you through the process.

  • What are the income limits for USDA loans?

    Income limits for USDA loans depend on the location and number of people in your household. Generally, your total household income must be below 115% of the area’s median income. For example, a household of four in North Carolina may need to stay under about $110,000 to qualify. We’ll help you calculate eligibility based on your income and county guidelines.

  • How can I find out if a property qualifies for a USDA loan?

    USDA defines property eligibility using an online map tool. Many buyers are surprised to learn that homes just outside city limits often qualify, even if they don’t seem “rural.” Our mortgage team will use the official USDA eligibility map to quickly confirm whether the property you’re interested in is eligible. We’ll also check your income to make sure you meet both requirements.

  • What credit score do I need for a USDA mortgage?

    The USDA program does not set a strict minimum credit score, but most lenders—including CTC Mortgage—prefer applicants to have at least a 640 FICO score for streamlined approval. If your score is lower, you may still qualify depending on other factors like payment history and reserves. We’ll review your credit report and work with you to create a path to qualification if needed.

  • What costs should I expect when getting a USDA loan?

    USDA loans do not require a down payment, but they do include a small upfront guarantee fee (1% of the loan amount) and a modest annual fee paid monthly. These fees are typically lower than what FHA loans charge for mortgage insurance. You’ll also have standard closing costs, which can sometimes be rolled into the loan if your appraisal allows. CTC Mortgage will provide you with a personalized cost breakdown before you commit.