This is where the USDA rural constructing loan comes into play. This unique loan, sponsored by the US Department of Agriculture, allows homeowners to build homes in eligible rural locations without requiring a large down payment. You must apply once, and the loan will pay both the building costs and your long-term mortgage.
Get A Free Mortgage QuoteIn this article, we will explain how these loans work, who may apply, and why they are a great option for building a house outside of the city.
What is a USDA Construction Loan?
A USDA construction loan is a form of funding that allows persons with low to moderate incomes to build homes in rural regions. Unlike other loans, it covers both the cost of constructing the house and the mortgage. You do not need to apply for two different loans—only one.
This form of loan is often known as a “one-time close” loan because you just need to sign the documents once.
How USDA Construction Loans Work
The USDA construction loan simplifies the process of funding a new house building. Most construction loans allow you to refinance into an ongoing mortgage when the work is done, but the USDA program offers a single-close construction-to-permanent mortgage as another option.
This means you only have to finish one closing and pay for one set of closing fees, which can save you thousands of dollars in total expenses and reduce the chance of fluctuating interest rates or financial troubles arising before refinancing into a long-term loan.
The USDA's new construction loan program enables you to buy a homesite, pay all of the improvements and building costs, and then automatically convert it into a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with established terms once the property is move-in ready.
Benefits of a USDA Rural Construction Loan
Here are the main reasons people choose this kind of loan:
- No down payment: You don’t need to save up thousands of dollars to get started.
- One simple loan: You don’t need to get two loans—one covers everything.
- Lower interest rates: The interest you pay is often lower than that of other loans.
- Easier to qualify: The USDA allows lower credit scores than many banks.
- Fewer fees: Since you only close on one loan, you’ll pay fewer extra costs.
- Build different types of homes: You can use the loan for regular houses, modular homes, or even manufactured homes (if the lender allows it).
How to Get a USDA Construction Loan
If you want to build a home using a USDA rural construction loan, here’s how to do it:
Pick a Qualified Builder
You’ll need to hire a builder who:
- Has a valid license to build homes
- Has at least 2 years of experience
- Carries enough insurance to cover accidents
- Has a clean background
- Has a good track record with money and payments
Find a USDA-Approved Lender
Look for a lender who offers USDA construction loans. To get started, you’ll need to share details like your job, income, any debts you have, and your credit score.
Apply for the Loan
Once you’ve chosen a builder and picked the land, you can apply. The whole process usually takes around 1 to 2 months.
USDA Construction Loan vs. Other Loans
The USDA loan is a great option if you qualify and want to build in a less crowded area without spending a lot of money upfront.
Who Can Get a USDA Loan?
To get a USDA loan, you need to:
- Earn a modest income (how much depends on where you live and how big your family is)
- Build or buy in a rural or small-town area (many places count as "rural" even if they feel suburban)
- Live in the home yourself—no rentals allowed
- Make sure the home is safe and meets basic standards
Why Choose a USDA Loan to Build?
USDA loans make building a home easier with these benefits:
- No down payment required
- Lower interest rates
- Easier credit requirements
- Covers both land and building costs
New Construction Requirements
USDA loans are for purchasing houses that fit the following requirements:
- Certified Plans and Specifications: Your home's design must be verified by an experienced expert and meet specific building requirements.
- Energy Efficiency: Your home has to comply (or exceed) the standards of the Global Energy Conservation Code (IECC) in effect when your home was built. This guarantees your home’s energy efficiency and saves you on utilities.
- Admin: To gain this trust, your lender will need you to keep records of building expenditures, inspection reports, documents, and warranties to show that your new house meets these standards.
A rural construction loan guaranteed by the USDA could be an excellent option if you want to construct a home outside of a noisy, highly populated region. It allows you to start building without a down payment, has lower interest rates, and wraps everything into a single, simple loan, making it easy and cheap for people who want to move to the countryside or smaller towns.
A USDA rural construction loan is a fantastic way to start building your dream house with less anxiety and more assistance.
