100% USDA Loan South Carolina - Coast2Coast Lending (2024)

FAQs

What credit score do you need for a USDA loan in SC? ›

Approved USDA loan lenders typically require a minimum credit score of at least 620 to get a USDA home loan. However, the USDA doesn't have a minimum credit score, so borrowers with scores below 620 may still be eligible for a USDA-backed mortgage.

There is a calculation that USDA lenders use, but in general, the household income for all adults living in the property cannot exceed 115% of the median household income for the area. In South Carolina, for a family of 1–4 members, the USDA income limit is $112,450.

Appraisers follow these guidelines during a USDA appraisal: The home must be in a qualifying rural area. The house has to be structurally sound, with a foundation and roof in good enough repair that you can live in the house right away. There has to be access to the home from a paved or all-weather road surface.

Credit History and Score: While USDA loans have more lenient credit requirements compared to conventional loans, a very low credit score or a history of bankruptcy, foreclosures or short sales can lead to denial.

Credit Score

For a $300,000 home, you'll likely need a good credit score: 740+: Best rates and terms. 700-739: Slightly higher rates. 660-699: Higher rates, may require larger down payment.

The timeline for USDA underwriting can vary, but it typically takes anywhere from 30 to 60 days. This timeline may be extended for loans requiring manual underwriting. The underwriting turn time for USDA loans is sometimes longer than other mortgage options due to additional requirements, such as the USDA appraisal.

This rule states that a person selling a flipped home must own the home for more than 90 days before home buyers can purchase the property. Sellers who plan on flipping a house generally buy a distressed property, give them some TLC, and then sell them for a profit.

Applicants must: Meet income-eligibility (cannot exceed 115% of median household income) Agree to personally occupy the dwelling as their primary residence. Be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. non-citizen national or Qualified Alien.

Low interest rates

Because it's a government-backed loan, you'll likely pay a lower interest rate on a USDA loan than you would on a conventional mortgage. Keep in mind that you'll get an even better rate with an excellent credit score, low debt-to-income ratio, or money toward a down payment.

Is USDA better than FHA? ›

USDA loans are ideal for borrowers with lower incomes who want to buy in rural areas. FHA loans are often ideal for borrowers who have a small down payment saved and credit scores that aren't high enough to get a low interest rate on a conventional mortgage.

USDA loans are an affordable mortgage option that it come with low interest rates compared to common conventional loans. The guarantee secures USDA-sponsored lenders, allowing them to offer much lower rates.

USDA Loan Credit Score Requirements

The USDA loan has no minimum credit score requirement; however, most lenders look for a FICO® credit score of at least 620. For those with lower credit scores, a USDA loan may still be possible with manual underwriting, depending on other individual financial circ*mstances.

If the applicant's credit score is less than 640 for 502 loans (or 620 for 504 loans), the Loan Originator must development a credit history from at least three sources. However, only two sources are required if one of those is a verification of rent or mortgage payments.

Within about 3-7 days of submitting your loan application, you should hear from your lender if you are pre-approved for a USDA loan or not. If you are pre-approved, you will receive a pre-approval letter that will let you know how much you qualify for and other important details.

In most U.S. housing markets, the USDA loan limit for Single-Family Direct Loans is $336,500 in 2022. But if you're buying in an area with higher housing prices, loan limits may be higher. For example, in Wake County, N.C., the loan limit is $336,500. In Clark County, Wash., a homebuyer could borrow up to $478,400.