USDA Eligibility Map: Is Your Home USDA-Eligible?

The USDA Eligibility Map is a free tool that shows which US homes may qualify for USDA mortgages.

USDA mortgages are backed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USDA mortgages cater to first-time home buyers with low interest rates and no down payment requirements.

The USDA Map lets you quickly see whether the home you’re looking to buy is potentially USDA-eligible.

Get pre-approved for a USDA mortgage.

How to Use the Homebuyer.com USDA Eligibility Map

Step 1: Enter a Home Address

To access the Homebuyer.com USDA Eligibility Map, begin typing a home address. The home buying tool will autocomplete and verify the address provided by you against a list of all known addresses.

If you need help with the exact home address, include as much information as possible including house number, street, city and state – the map will suggest your possible matches.

Once your address is selected, Maps locates the house and shows it on the map.

Step 2: Review USDA Eligibility Status

After locating the address of the subject property, the USDA Eligibility Map will show whether the selected home is eligible for a USDA mortgage.

The home buying tool offers two possible outcomes: eligible and ineligible.

Qualifying households are in a rural census tract or division, as defined by the US Census Bureau.

• less than 2,000 housing units or 5,000 people
• less than 500 residents per square mile
• no more than 425 housing units per square mile
• Not within a half-mile radius of an airport with 2,500 or more passengers per year

Not all non-rural homes, also called urban homes, are eligible for USDA loans.

Homebuyer.com USDA Eligibility Map

Additional Requirements for USDA-Eligible Homes

Homes that fall within USDA mortgage zones must also meet three other criteria to be USDA-eligible.

The first additional USDA eligibility standard for homes is the type of property. Homes must be zoned for single-family residences and must be the buyer’s primary residence within 60 days of settlement.

Home types eligible for USDA loans include existing single-family homes, newly constructed single-family homes, modular homes, townhomes, and some manufactured homes.

2-4 unit homes and investment and commercial properties are ineligible.

The second additional USDA eligibility standard for homes is property status. USDA-eligible homes must be in good condition and meet the USDA’s safety, structural and sanitation standards.

The third eligibility criterion is the size of the house.

While the USDA does not enforce a maximum square footage requirement or loan size limit, USDA homes must be modest with only limited overpriced amenities. Homes that are relatively large or expensive for the area are generally not eligible for USDA loans.

Finally, home buyers using a USDA mortgage must meet specific income and credit score requirements, as described in the article “What is a USDA loan?”

Common USDA Eligibility Map Questions

Readers send us questions about USDA eligibility via our chat and on the Homebuyer.com YouTube channel. Here are some common ones.

How often is the USDA Eligibility Map updated?

The USDA Eligibility Map is updated when rural area boundaries change. There is no fixed schedule for USDA updates. Check the map regularly for accurate information.

Can I use a USDA mortgage to buy a mobile or manufactured home?

Yes, some manufactured homes qualify for USDA mortgages. Manufactured homes must meet USDA structural and safety requirements. They must be permanently installed on a foundation and connected to necessary utilities.

Can I Use a USDA Mortgage for an Investment Property or Vacation Home?

No, USDA mortgages are for primary residences only. Investment properties, vacation homes, and short term rentals do not meet USDA eligibility standards.

Do I have to be a first time homebuyer to use a USDA mortgage?

No, USDA mortgages are not limited to first time home buyers. First-time and repeat home buyers who meet the USDA’s income and credit requirements can apply for a USDA home loan.

Is there leniency for homes near USDA-eligible zones?

USDA mortgages are only for homes in USDA eligible areas. Homes outside a USDA-eligible zone are ineligible. Use the USDA Eligibility Map to find other nearby homes that meet the location requirement.

Can I Still Apply for a USDA Mortgage With a Low Credit Score?

Yes, USDA mortgages are for buyers with all types of credit. However, buyers must meet USDA income requirements, and some lenders enforce minimum credit scores for USDA mortgage applications.

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Stay updated with USDA eligibility changes

The USDA updates its eligibility maps regularly as regions grow and change. You can sign up for Homebuyer.com’s email newsletter to stay up-to-date. We send you updates and news about USDA mortgages and other useful information for first time home buyers.