Loading
Loading
Susanville sits in Lassen County — deep rural California. That geography is exactly why USDA loans exist.
Most of Susanville qualifies for USDA financing. Zero down payment is the headline benefit here.
0%
Down Payment
640 (auto)
Min Credit Score
1% (financeable)
Upfront Fee
0.35% of balance
Annual Fee
30–45+ days
Est. Close Time
USDA Loans in Susanville
USDA loans require steady income, decent credit, and a property inside an eligible rural zone. Susanville checks that last box.
Most lenders want a 640 credit score for automated approval. Below that, you need a manual underwrite — harder but not impossible.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect usda loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Susanville.
Susanville sits in Lassen County — deep rural California. That geography is exactly why USDA loans exist.
Most of Susanville qualifies for USDA financing. Zero down payment is the headline benefit here.
USDA loans require steady income, decent credit, and a property inside an eligible rural zone. Susanville checks that last box.
Not every lender offers USDA loans. Many banks skip them entirely — too much paperwork, too little volume.
We work with wholesale lenders who actively do USDA. That matters in a small market like Susanville.
USDA has two loan options: the guaranteed program through approved lenders, and direct loans from USDA itself. Most buyers use guaranteed.
The upfront guarantee fee is 1% of the loan amount. Annual fee is 0.35%. Roll both into the loan — no cash needed at closing for fees.
FHA requires 3.5% down. VA requires zero — but only for veterans. USDA is zero down for civilians who qualify on income and location.
USDA's annual mortgage insurance is cheaper than FHA's. If you qualify for both, USDA usually wins on total cost.
Lassen County's low population density is a feature for USDA buyers, not a problem. Rural designation is built in.
Susanville home prices tend to stay well below California norms. That keeps buyers comfortably inside USDA income limits in most cases.
Yes. Susanville and most of Lassen County meet USDA rural eligibility criteria. Verify the specific property address on the USDA eligibility map.
USDA income limits depend on household size and county. Check the USDA income eligibility tool for current Lassen County figures.
Yes, if the home appraises above the purchase price. The difference can cover closing costs. Seller concessions are also allowed.
USDA loans require a second review by the USDA Rural Development office. Budget 30-45 days minimum — sometimes longer.
Usually yes, if you qualify. Zero down and lower annual fees make USDA the cheaper option for eligible rural buyers.