Zero down, rural
USDA Loans
Zero-down financing for eligible homes in rural and many suburban areas across the Carolinas.
How USDA loans work
USDA loans offer no-down-payment financing for homes in eligible rural and suburban areas, and the word "rural" does a lot of misleading work here. Large portions of the counties surrounding Charlotte qualify, including areas that feel thoroughly suburban. Buyers routinely rule themselves out of this program without ever checking the map.
The eligibility test has two parts: the property has to sit in a designated area, and your household income has to fall under a limit for that county. Both are worth checking properly rather than guessing, because a zero-down option is a significant thing to leave on the table.
If you are looking at the edges of Cabarrus, Rowan, Union or York County, this is the first question to ask before assuming you need a down payment.
Common around ConcordKannapolisRock Hill
FAQ
USDA questions
Is my area actually eligible?
More likely than you would expect. USDA eligibility maps cover a great deal of what most people would call suburban, including parts of the counties around Charlotte. We check the specific address for you.
Is there an income limit?
Yes. USDA sets household income limits that vary by county and household size. They are more generous than most people assume, and worth checking rather than self-selecting out.
Do I need to be a first-time buyer?
No. USDA financing is available to repeat buyers as well, provided the property and income requirements are met.
Other programs worth a look
- Conventional Loans Competitive rates, flexible terms and low monthly payments for buyers with good credit and steady income.
- FHA Loans Government-backed financing built for buyers with limited savings or a shorter credit history.
- VA Loans Financing for veterans, active-duty service members and eligible surviving spouses.
- Jumbo Loans Financing for homes priced above conforming loan limits, with underwriting handled personally.
- DSCR Loans Investment property financing that qualifies on the rental income the property produces, not on your personal tax returns.
- First-Time Buyer Programs Low down payment loans, grants and flexible approval paths for buyers purchasing their first home.
Let's find out what you qualify for.
Start with a conversation. If it makes sense to go further, we will, and if it does not, you will know that too.