USDA rural home loans
0% down payment in Maryland's eligible rural areas.
A home with no down payment? USDA offers that possibility for eligible buyers and properties. Let's review the address, your household income and your next step before you fall in love with a house.
Subject to eligibility and lender approval. No down payment does not mean no closing costs or program fees.
Licensed in Maryland
Start here
Let us guide you
Fill out the form and we will reach out and guide you along the way.
- A conversation focused on your goal, with no pressure
- No documents are needed for this form
Options
Find the path that matches your goal
Every situation is different. These categories can help you identify where you would like to start.
First-time buyers
Explore FHA and conventional options, along with potential assistance programs, as you take your first step toward a home.
ITIN
Some lenders offer programs that accept an ITIN. Let's talk about your goal and the requirements that may apply.
Investors
Explore DSCR and Non-QM options that may consider the property's cash flow, subject to applicable criteria.
VA
Options backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may exist for active-duty military members, veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible surviving spouses. Let's review whether you meet the requirements.
Refinancing
Let's talk about what you want to accomplish and the costs to compare before deciding whether to explore refinancing.
Self-employed borrowers
Some programs allow income to be documented with bank statements or other methods, subject to lender criteria.
*Availability, eligibility and terms depend on the lender, underwriting and applicable documentation. Refinancing may increase the total finance charges over the life of the loan. Nothing on this page guarantees approval, rate, payment, savings, a program or a closing date.
What to expect
You don't have to have it all figured out
That's what the first conversation is for. This is the process of working with me, step by step.
Initial conversation
Ask all your questions and tell me what you're hoping to achieve.
Where you stand today
I'll help you understand your options and the information needed to continue.
You choose your next step
Ready to move forward? Great. Not quite there yet? That's okay — we'll take the next step when it makes sense for you.
Any eligibility or approval depends on the lender and underwriting.
Common questions
Before you begin
Is the house I want in a USDA-eligible area?
Eligibility is decided by the property's location on USDA's map, not by how rural it looks. Much of the Eastern Shore, Western Maryland and Southern Maryland qualifies, while the cities and most close-in suburbs do not, and the map changes as census data updates. I check the exact address before you write an offer.
Is a USDA loan really zero down?
For eligible borrowers and properties, USDA's guaranteed program may require no down payment. No down payment does not necessarily mean no cash needed at closing. Closing costs, prepaid taxes and insurance, and USDA guarantee fees can still apply. The program has an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee, rather than private mortgage insurance. Your Loan Estimate shows estimated cash to close; final amounts appear in your Closing Disclosure.
Are there income limits?
Yes. USDA sets a maximum household income by county and household size, and everyone who will live in the home counts toward it. The home must be your primary residence and meet USDA's property standards. Your file is underwritten by the lender under USDA's rules; approval is never guaranteed.
What do I need to get started?
Just a conversation. Tell me your goal and I'll explain the steps and the information commonly requested for your case.
How much do I need for a down payment?
It depends on the program. Some allow low down payments and, depending on your case and eligibility, assistance programs may exist. We'll review it together.
What credit score do I need?
There's no single number: every program and every lender has its own criteria. Let's talk about your real situation and the options you could explore.
Can I buy using an ITIN?
Some lenders offer programs that accept an ITIN. Tell me your goal and we'll review the requirements that may apply.
How long does the process take?
It varies with your case, your documentation and the lender. I'll explain every step from the start so you can move forward with clarity and no surprises.
Does talking with you cost anything or commit me?
No. The initial conversation is free and doesn't obligate you to anything. Submitting the form is not a loan application or a preapproval.