USDA loans help people buy homes in small towns and many suburbs with no down payment. They're backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, but you don't need to live on a farm. Lots of areas just outside Texas cities qualify. If you've been saving for years and the down payment still feels out of reach, a USDA loan may be the answer.
Finance 100% of the price if you qualify.
USDA's yearly fee is lower than FHA mortgage insurance.
Sellers can pay up to 6% of the price toward your closing costs.
Many small towns and suburbs across Texas qualify.
A USDA renovation loan can cover repairs in the same loan.
USDA loans have two main rules. The home must be in an eligible area, and your household income must be under the limit for your county. USDA counts the income of every adult living in the home, not just the people on the loan. There's a 1% upfront fee that can be added to the loan, plus a small yearly fee in your payment. The home must be your primary residence and meet basic condition standards. If it needs repairs, a USDA renovation loan lets you finance them in the same loan.
How do I know if a home is in a USDA area?
USDA has an eligibility map where you can look up any address. Send me the addresses you're interested in and I'll check them for you. Some areas just outside city limits qualify, so it's worth checking.
What are the USDA income limits?
They're based on your county and household size. For 2026, the limit in most Texas counties is $119,850 for households of 1 to 4 people and $158,250 for 5 to 8 people. Some counties are higher. USDA allows some deductions, like childcare costs, so you may qualify even if your income is a little over.
What credit score do I need for a USDA loan?
Most lenders look for a score of 640 or higher for automated approval. Lower scores can sometimes work with a manual review. Lender requirements vary, so I compare options across many lenders to find the best fit for your credit.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer?
No. But you generally can't own another home in the area that meets your needs.
USDA, FHA, or VA: which is right for me?
If you're a veteran, VA is often the best place to start. If not, USDA usually beats FHA when the home and your income qualify, because there's no down payment and a lower monthly fee. I'll run the numbers side by side so you can see the difference.
My free guide walks you through the whole process, from your first call to closing day.

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