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Homebuyer Guide to
Federal Guarantees for Rural Home Loans

Our home loan guarantees help participating private lenders safely increase their investment in mortgages for income-eligible families or individuals buying or building a home in a qualified rural area. Last year in Tennessee more than 110 lenders participated in the program, providing sound mortgages for more than 4,200 homebuyers in rural Tennessee.

Click here for a list of Approved Lenders in Tennessee

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What are the adjusted income limits for a USDA Home Loan Guarantee in Tennessee?

In the Nashville MSA (Cannon, Cheatham, Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Trousdale, Williamson and Wilson) the adjusted income limits are:

  • $77,200 for a family of 1-4
  • $101,904 for a family of 5-8

For all other Tennessee Counties and MSAs the adjusted income limits are:

  • $74,750 for a family of 1-4
  • $98,670 for a family of 5-8


Am I eligible for a Rural Development home loan?


Are there other borrower eligibility restrictions?
Borrowers must be U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents.


Does the home qualify?
Use our online Address Search to find out if the property to be purchased is in an eligible rural area.

Loans guaranteed by USDA may be used to buy or build a single family residence, including the cost of land. Land value may not exceed 30% of the total property value.

NOTE: Click here for information on modular homes in Tennessee that are eligible for USDA Rural Development mortgage financing or mortgage guarantees.


Is there a set maximum loan amount?
No.

A borrower's maximum loan amount is determined by their ability to repay the loan.

Closing costs may be included in the loan (no discount points).

Appraised value may be exceeded by the amount of the guarantee fee, up to 102% LTV.


Are their other benefits for the borrower?
Yes.

  • No down payment required.
  • 29% PITI (principal, interest, taxes and insurance).
  • PITI plus all other monthly debts may be up to 41% of Repayment Income (waivers allowed).
  • Guarantee fee may be included in the loan up to 102% of appraised value.


Does Rural Development set the loan terms?
Yes and No.

The loan term is set at 30 years.

Interest rate and other terms are determined by the lender and buyer.


Is there a deadline to apply?
No.

Home Loan Guarantee commitments are made year round as long as funding is available. Applications are processed in the order received from your approved lender.


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Why does Rural Development make home loan guarantees?
Home Ownership Strengthens Communities. A good home is more than just a roof overhead. Homes are the cornerstone of our communities. They help families achieve economic stability and build savings over time that can help meet needs like education and retirement. Rural Development programs ensure Americans living in rural areas have access to affordable, well-built homes near jobs, schools, healthcare and public services.