USDA Loan near Albuquerque NM – 2024 Qualifications, Guidelines, Eligibility, & Rates
In a housing market that’s become extremely competitive, where more and more homes are selling for close to or above the asking price, buying a home can feel like a losing battle.
Even though most mortgage options usually need a down payment, the USDA loan program is just 1 of 2 mortgage programs that instead financing the full 100%. The USDA supports the dreams of tomorrow for both first-time buyers and existing homeowners by making today’s homes affordable to everyone within acceptable reach.
Continue reading to see how a USDA loan could be your ticket to house ownership!
What is a USDA home loan?
USDA loans in Albuquerque are mortgages backed by the USDA as part of its Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan program.
They are offered to home buyers with low-to-average income. They provide financing with no down payment, lower mortgage insurance, and below-market mortgage rates.
A USDA mortgage can be used to purchase a property near Albuquerque or refinance an existing one at a low interest rate.
USDA home loans are putting folks in homes who never believed they’d be able to own one.
About Albuquerque NM
Cities Near Albuquerque NM
USDA Loan Requirements
USDA eligibility is determined by both the buyer and the property.
First, the house must be in a qualified “rural” location, which the USDA defines as having a population of less than 20,000 people.
Second, the buyer must be able to meet the USDA’s monthly income limits. You cannot earn more than 15% more than the local median income to be eligible. You must also live in the house as your primary residence (no vacation homes or investment properties allowed).
Borrowers must also meet the USDA’s “capacity to repay” conditions, which include:
Income – eligibility entails having a steady work and a monthly income, as evidenced by tax records.
Credit – A FICO credit score of at least 640 is required (though this can vary by lender)
Debt ratio – In most circumstances, a debt-to-income ratio of 41% or below.
You can utilize the USDA’s eligibility maps to see if the property you’re interested in is USDA eligible.
USDA Loan Rates: How Do They Compare
USDA mortgage rates in Albuquerque NM are among the lowest available when compared to other mortgage programs.
USDA rates are usually only matched by the VA loan, which is only available to veterans. Because the USDA and VA programs are backed by the government, they can offer lower-than-market interest rates.
Other mortgage programs, such as FHA and conventional loans, can have interest rates that are 0.5 percent to 0.75 percent higher than USDA rates on average. #p#Mortgage rates, on the other hand, are highly individual. Obtaining a USDA loan does not guarantee that your interest rate will be “below-market” or that it will match the USDA loan rates advertised.
To get the best interest rate and monthly payments, you must have a high credit score and few debts. Making a larger down payment also helps.
You should also shop around with several USDA mortgage lenders in Albuquerque.
Each USDA lender sets its own rates, so comparing personalized rates from multiple companies is the only way to find the best deal.
How USDA Loans Work
Buyers can finance 100 percent of a home’s purchase price with a USDA mortgage while receiving lower-than-average mortgage rates. This is because USDA mortgage rates are lower than those of other low-down-payment mortgages.
Aside from that, USDA loans aren’t all that uncommon.
The repayment schedule does not include a “balloon” or anything out of the ordinary; the closing costs are standard and prepayment penalties are never applied.
USDA loans differ from one another in two ways: loan type and down payment amount.
- You do not need to make a down payment with a USDA loan. This is one of only two major loan programs that allows for zero-down payment.
- You must use a fixed-rate loan with the USDA loan program. The USDA rural loan program does not offer adjustable-rate mortgages.
Rural loans are available to both first-time and repeat home buyers. The USDA program for Bernalillo County County does not require homeowner counseling.
USDA Loans Require Mortgage Insurance
USDA “guarantees” its mortgage loans, which means it protects mortgage lenders in the event that USDA borrowers default. The program, however, is partially self-funded.
To keep this loan program running, the USDA charges homeowner-paid mortgage insurance premiums.
USDA has lowered its mortgage insurance costs for both the upfront and monthly fees as of October 1, 2016.
The following are the current USDA mortgage insurance rates:
- For purchases, there is a one-time fee of one percent of the loan amount.
- For refinancing, there is a one-time fee of one percent of the loan amount.
- For all loans, an annual fee of 0.35 percent is levied based on the remaining principal balance each year.
As an example, consider the following: A $100,000 loan would incur a $1,000 upfront mortgage insurance cost, as well as a monthly payment of $29.17 for annual mortgage insurance.
The USDA does not pay cash for upfront mortgage insurance. It is automatically added to your remaining loan balance so that you can pay it off over time.
USDA mortgage insurance rates are lower than those for conventional or FHA loans.
- FHA mortgage insurance premiums include a 1.75 percent upfront mortgage insurance premium and an annual MIP of 0.85 percent.
- Private mortgage insurance (PMI) premiums on conventional loans vary, but are frequently greater than 1% per year.
Mortgage insurance premiums on USDA-guaranteed loans are just a small amount of what you’d normally pay. Even better, USDA mortgage rates are very competitive.
USDA mortgage rates are frequently the lowest among FHA, VA, and conventional loan mortgage rates — especially when potential buyers make a small or minimum down payment.
USDA mortgage rates can be 100 basis points (1.00 percent) or more lower than comparable conventional loan rates for a buyer with an average credit score.
Lower interest rates imply lower monthly mortgage payments, which is why New Mexico USDA loans in Albuquerque can be extremely affordable.
About the USDA “Rural Housing” Mortgage Home Loan
The USDA Rural Development Guaranteed Housing Loan is the full name of the Rural Development loan. The program, however, is more commonly known as a USDA loan.
The Rural Development loan is also known as a “Section 502” loan, referring to Section 502(h) of the Housing Act of 1949, which allows the program to exist.
This program is intended to assist first-time home buyers while also stimulating growth in less-populated, “rural,” and low-income areas.
That may appear to be limiting. However, USDA loans are available in 97 percent of the United States (even in Bernalillo County County) including many suburban areas near major cities like Albuquerque. Any area with a population of 20,000 or less (or 35,000 or less in exceptional circumstances) is eligible.
To top if off, most home buyers in the United States, even those who qualify for USDA loans, have never heard of or are only vaguely familiar with this program.
This is due to the fact that the USDA loan program did not begin until the 1990s. It was only recently that it was updated and adjusted to appeal to buyers in rural and suburban areas across the country.
Many USDA-approved lenders in Albuquerque NM do not even include the USDA loan option on their loan application menu. However, many do.
So, if you think you might be eligible for a zero-down USDA loan, click here to check eligibility for Albuquerque NM.
USDA Home Loan FAQ
Below are a few examples of questions frequently asked by potential homebuyers who are considering applying for USDA mortgages. These answers will give you a basic idea of whether or not the USDA loan program will be right for you.
What exactly is a USDA loan?
USDA loans are mortgages designed specifically for low- to moderate-income home buyers. The United States Department of Agriculture guarantees these loans. This guarantee acts as insurance for USDA mortgage companies, allowing them to offer below-market interest rates and zero-down home loans.
This program is run by the USDA to encourage homeownership and economic development in rural areas.
How do you become eligible for a USDA loan?
If you have an average salary in your area and a credit score of 640 or higher, you may be eligible for a USDA loan. USDA loans can only be used to purchase a home in a rural or suburban area. Qualifying areas typically have a population of less than 20,000 people however you’d be surprised to know how many areas in the United States are eligible.
What is the USDA income limit for home loans?
The USDA income limit is based on the median income in your area. To be eligible for a USDA home loan, your income cannot be more than 15% higher than the national median.
For example, if the median annual salary in your city is $65,000, you might be able to qualify for a USDA loan if you make $74,750 or less. (15% of $65,000 = $9,750) $65,000 + $9,750 = $74,750
Is a USDA loan a good option?
For buyers with a middle or low income, a USDA loan is an excellent option. It allows you to buy a home with no money down and low mortgage rates, which are two big benefits that only one other loan program (the VA loan) offers, and those are only available to veterans, not the general public.
If you live in an eligible area, it’s worth looking into a USDA-guaranteed loan. The main disadvantage is that USDA loans necessitate mortgage insurance. So, if you have a 20% down payment, a conventional loan with no mortgage insurance payment may be preferable.
Is USDA preferable to FHA?
Both home loan programs allow you to buy a home with a low down payment but require mortgage insurance.
USDA financing is available with no money down, but the home must be in a qualified rural area and the buyer must meet income eligibility limits.The FHA requires a 3.5 percent down payment, but there are no geographic or income restrictions. FHA also has more lenient credit requirements (a 580 credit score can be required for FHA versus a 640 for USDA).
The best loan type for you is determined by where you are purchasing and your financial situation.
What is the USDA loan process?
USDA loans are not direct government loans. However, because they are backed by the United States Department of Agriculture, they can offer zero down and low interest rates.
Aside from that, USDA loans function similarly to other types of mortgages. They are provided by mainstream mortgage lenders, and you can apply online, in person, or by phone. Furthermore, you must be pre-approved and qualify for a USDA loan based on your income, credit, debt, and other factors.
Another distinction is that the lender must submit the loan file to USDA for approval. This can add two to three weeks to the processing time of your loan.
Is there a credit score requirement for the USDA loan program?
USDA implemented a minimum score of 640 on December 1, 2014. Prior to that date, the USDA had not established a minimum score for the program. However, the majority of lenders did. When the USDA instituted an official credit score minimum, it did not exclude a large number of additional buyers.
If you don’t have a credit score, your lender may accept “alternate” tradelines to establish one. (For example, on-time rent and utility payments that aren’t normally reported on a credit report.)
What is the minimum down payment for the USDA program?
The USDA does not require a down payment. A USDA home loan can be used to finance the entire purchase price of a home. If you do decide to make a down payment, you will be able to lower your monthly mortgage payments and possibly afford a more expensive home.
Are USDA mortgage rates favorable?
Most of the time, USDA has better rates than 30-year fixed loans. This makes USDA a better option (and more affordable).
Can I refinance my USDA mortgage if mortgage rates fall?
USDA loans are eligible for refinancing. The USDA Streamline Refinance Program waives income and credit verification, allowing for faster closings. Home appraisals are also not required.
Can I use the USDA program to get a cash-out refinance?
Unfortunately, no. You can only use USDA to buy a home or refinance into a lower rate or change your loan term.
What is the purpose of the USDA Rural Development loan?
The USDA Rural Development loan is intended to assist low-income households in obtaining housing and mortgage loans in some of the country’s less densely populated areas such as Bernalillo County County. By facilitating homeownership, the USDA contributes to the creation of stable communities for households of all sizes.
What are the areas that are eligible for a USDA loan?
Your home must be in a rural area to qualify for the USDA Rural Housing Program. The USDA, on the other hand, has a broad definition of “rural.” Many small towns, as well as the suburbs and exurbs of many major U.S. cities, meet the agency’s “rural” requirements.
Approximately 97% of the landmass in the United States meets the USDA loan’s definition of “rural”. At the time of writing, only 3% of the population is ineligible.
How do I find out if my region is USDA-eligible?
The United States Department of Agriculture’s website lists USDA-eligible communities by Census tract. You must provide the exact address of a residence. The website will indicate whether or not the home meets the program’s requirements…or you can get in touch and we can help.
Is mortgage insurance (MI) required on a USDA loan?
Yes, it’s 1% upfront that’s rolled into the loan, and a 0.35% annual fee that’s broken up throughout the year and added to your monthly mortgage payment.
Is it possible to finance the upfront mortgage insurance into my mortgage?
Yes, the USDA will finance your upfront mortgage insurance payment by adding it to the amount of your loan.
For example, if you purchased a $100,000 home and borrowed the entire $100,000 from your lender, your Upfront Mortgage Insurance would be $1,000. You could then increase the size of your loan to $101,000.
What is the maximum USDA mortgage loan size?
Loan limits are not set by the USDA. However, the amount you can borrow is limited by your income and your household’s debt-to-income ratio.
Debt-to-income ratios are typically limited to 41 percent by the USDA. However, borrowers with a credit score of over 660 and stable employment, or who demonstrate a demonstrated ability to save, may be treated more leniently under the program.
Is the USDA loan program only available to first-time home buyers?
No, the USDA Rural Housing Program is open to both first-time and repeat buyers.
What is the best place to look for a USDA loan lender?
Even though there’s a list of approved lenders for the Rural Housing Program is available on the website of the United States Department of Agriculture, we recommend checking eligibility with us. We have tons of experience with USDA home loans.
What USDA loan terms are available?
The USDA Rural Housing loan is only available in the form of a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. The USDA does not offer a 15-year fixed option or an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM).
What are the closing costs for a USDA mortgage?
Closing costs vary depending on the lender and location. Some lenders, for example, have high origination fees. Others aren’t. The same can be said of state and local governments. Some states have high costs while others have low costs.
Because closing costs vary, shop around to find the best combination of low mortgage rates and low closing costs.
Is it necessary to escrow my taxes and insurance with a USDA mortgage?
Yes, USDA loans require borrowers to escrow their property taxes and homeowners insurance with the lender. This means you’ll pay your taxes and insurance in addition to your mortgage payment each month. You are not permitted to pay your property taxes or annual homeowner insurance separately.
I am unable to cover the closing costs. Can I get a gift to help with my closing costs?
Yes, USDA loans accept gifts from both family and non-family members. Notify your loan officer as soon as possible that you will be using gifted funds, as this necessitates additional documentation and verification on the part of the lender.
I negotiated for the seller to cover my closing costs. Is that legal?
Yes, totally. This is called “Seller Contribution” and lets the sellers pay up to 6% of your closing costs.
Seller concessions may include all or a portion of state and local government fees, lender costs, title charges, and any number of home and pest inspections.
Can I use the USDA loan to purchase a second home?
No, the USDA loan cannot be used to purchase a vacation home; it is only available for primary residences.
Can I use the USDA loan to purchase a rental property?
No, the USDA loan cannot be used to purchase an investment property.
Can I get a USDA loan for my working farm?
The Rural Housing Program, on the other hand, is only for residential property.
I recently returned to work. How long will it be before I am USDA-eligible?
If you are a W-2 employee, you are immediately eligible for USDA financing in Albuquerque NM; you do not need a job history. However, if you have less than two years of experience, you may be unable to use your bonus income for qualification purposes.
I work for myself. Can I apply for a USDA loan?
Yes, self-employed individuals are eligible to participate in the USDA Rural Housing Program.
If you are self-employed and want to use USDA financing, you will be required to provide two years of federal tax returns to verify your self-employment income, just like FHA and conventional financing.
Can I use the USDA loan program to build a new home?
Yes, the USDA loan program is available for newly constructed homes and other new construction.
Can I use the USDA loan program to repair and improve my current home?
Yes, the USDA home loan program can be used to finance eligible home repairs and improvements. This may include replacing windows or appliances, preparing a site with trees, walks, and driveways, obtaining fixed broadband service, and connecting water, sewer, electricity, and gas.
Is it possible to use the USDA loan program to make a home accessible to people with physical disabilities?
Yes, the USDA loan program can be used to permanently install equipment to help physically disabled household members.
Can I use the USDA loan program to improve my home’s energy efficiency?
Yes, the USDA loan program can be used to purchase and install energy-efficient materials such as windows, roofing, and solar panels.
Can a non-citizen obtain a USDA loan?
Yes, in addition to US citizens, legal permanent residents of the US can apply for a USDA loan.
Is household income considered when determining eligibility?
Yes, a borrower’s household income cannot exceed 115 percent of the median income in the area.
Is a USDA Home Loan Right For You?
If you’re thinking about buying a house, you should look into the USDA home loan program in Albuquerque, NM. This loan is intended to assist low-income households in purchasing a home by offering a low down payment and low interest rates, making homeownership affordable for everyone who deserves to fulfill their dream.
