Question 1

Is El Centro eligible for USDA loans?

Accepted Answer

Parts of El Centro and surrounding Imperial County qualify. Always verify the specific property address on the USDA eligibility map before moving forward.

Question 2

What is the income limit for USDA in Imperial County?

Accepted Answer

Limits vary by household size and are set by USDA. Check the official USDA income eligibility tool for Imperial County's current figures.

Question 3

Do USDA loans require mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

Not exactly. USDA charges a guarantee fee upfront and a small annual fee. Both are typically lower than FHA mortgage insurance premiums.

Question 4

Can I roll the USDA guarantee fee into my loan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The upfront guarantee fee can be financed into the loan amount. That keeps your cash-to-close as low as possible.

Question 5

How long does USDA loan approval take?

Accepted Answer

USDA loans add a rural development approval step. Budget extra time — closings often take 30-45 days depending on USDA office volume.

Question 6

Can self-employed buyers use USDA loans in El Centro?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but lenders require two years of tax returns. Net income after write-offs must support the payment — heavy deductions can hurt your qualifying income.

USDA Loans in El Centro, CA — Zero Down in Imperial County