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Maricopa sits in southern Kern County, well outside California's dense urban cores. That geography is exactly why USDA loans are worth looking at here.
USDA eligibility is tied to location and income — not credit perfection. Maricopa's rural designation makes it a strong candidate for zero-down financing.
0%
Down Payment
640 (most lenders)
Min Credit Score
41%
Max DTI Ratio
Can roll into loan
Upfront Fee
30-45 days
Est. Close Time
USDA Loans in Maricopa
USDA loans require stable income, a 640+ credit score with most lenders, and a debt-to-income ratio under 41%. Some lenders go higher with strong compensating factors.
Household income must fall under the USDA limit for Kern County. That cap includes all household members — not just borrowers on the loan.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect usda loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Maricopa.
Maricopa sits in southern Kern County, well outside California's dense urban cores. That geography is exactly why USDA loans are worth looking at here.
USDA eligibility is tied to location and income — not credit perfection. Maricopa's rural designation makes it a strong candidate for zero-down financing.
USDA loans require stable income, a 640+ credit score with most lenders, and a debt-to-income ratio under 41%. Some lenders go higher with strong compensating factors.
Not every lender offers USDA loans. Banks often skip them — the approval process is longer and volume is lower. Brokers with wholesale access find more options.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with 200+ wholesale lenders. We know which ones close USDA loans efficiently and which ones stall. That matters for a rural market like Maricopa.
USDA loans carry two fees: an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee. Both are lower than FHA mortgage insurance — and the upfront fee can be rolled into the loan.
The USDA approval process adds a step — the file goes to the agency after the lender approves it. Plan for extra time. Work with a broker who manages that timeline proactively.
FHA loans require 3.5% down and higher mortgage insurance costs. USDA beats FHA on monthly payment for buyers who qualify on income and location.
VA loans are the only other zero-down option — but you need military service. If you don't have VA eligibility, USDA is the strongest no-down-payment program available.
Maricopa is one of the smaller cities in Kern County. USDA eligibility maps can change — always confirm the property address is in an approved zone before you fall in love with a listing.
Kern County income limits for USDA are set by household size. A family of four has a higher cap than a single borrower. Check the current limits for your specific household.
Maricopa is in a rural area of Kern County that has historically qualified. Always verify the specific property address on the USDA eligibility map before signing a purchase contract.
Limits vary by household size and are updated annually by USDA. Check the current Kern County limits directly — all household members' income counts, not just the borrowers'.
No. USDA loans are zero down. The upfront guarantee fee can be rolled into the loan, so you can close with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
USDA adds a second approval step after the lender signs off. Expect 30-45 days minimum. An experienced lender can help avoid unnecessary delays.
USDA loans are for move-in ready primary residences only. Land purchases and major fixer-uppers don't qualify under the standard USDA guaranteed loan program.
USDA's annual fee is typically lower than FHA monthly mortgage insurance. Over a 30-year loan, that difference adds up to real savings.