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Taft sits in western Kern County — and it qualifies for USDA financing. That zero-down benefit is real money in a town where buyers are often working-class households.
USDA eligibility is tied to location and income, not just credit scores. Taft's rural designation makes it one of the better fits for this loan program in all of California.
0%
Down Payment
640
Min Credit Score
1% of loan
Upfront Fee
0.35% of balance
Annual Fee
35-50 days
Typical Close Time
USDA Loans in Taft
You need a 640 credit score to get USDA's automated approval. Below that, manual underwriting kicks in — more documentation, stricter ratios.
Income can't exceed 115% of the area median income for your household size. That limit covers all income in the household, not just the borrower's.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect usda loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Taft.
Taft sits in western Kern County — and it qualifies for USDA financing. That zero-down benefit is real money in a town where buyers are often working-class households.
USDA eligibility is tied to location and income, not just credit scores. Taft's rural designation makes it one of the better fits for this loan program in all of California.
You need a 640 credit score to get USDA's automated approval. Below that, manual underwriting kicks in — more documentation, stricter ratios.
Most retail banks don't actively push USDA loans. The process is slower, and many loan officers just don't do enough volume to know it well.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with wholesale lenders who close USDA deals regularly. That experience cuts down on delays and last-minute surprises.
The USDA guarantee fee adds to your loan balance. There's a 1% upfront fee and a 0.35% annual fee — both lower than FHA's mortgage insurance.
USDA appraisals flag property condition issues that conventional appraisals often let slide. Know this going in. Properties with deferred maintenance can stall or kill the deal.
FHA requires 3.5% down and carries higher mortgage insurance costs. USDA wins on monthly payment if you qualify on income and location.
VA beats USDA for eligible veterans — no down payment and no annual mortgage insurance. If you've served, start with VA first.
Taft's economy runs on oil and agriculture. Income can be irregular for oilfield workers — USDA lenders will scrutinize two-year income history closely.
Homes in Taft tend to be older stock. USDA's property standards require working systems and no safety hazards. Budget for a pre-inspection before going under contract.
Yes, as of April 2026, Taft is in a USDA-eligible rural area. Eligibility can change, so confirm before you start the process.
Limits are set at 115% of the area median income and vary by household size. Check the USDA income eligibility tool for current Kern County figures.
Yes, but the home must meet USDA's minimum property standards. Deferred maintenance or safety issues will need to be fixed before closing.
Expect 35-50 days. USDA loans require a final review by the USDA Rural Development office, which adds time beyond a typical lender approval.
For buyers who qualify, USDA usually wins — no down payment and lower monthly insurance costs. FHA makes sense if income limits rule out USDA.
Yes, but lenders require two years of documented income history. Seasonal or variable pay gets averaged — gaps or inconsistency can complicate approval.