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in Lynwood, CA
Both FHA and USDA loans offer pathways to homeownership in Lynwood with minimal cash upfront. The catch: USDA loans require zero down but have strict geographic and income limits that disqualify most Lynwood properties.
FHA loans work anywhere in the city with just 3.5% down. USDA loans demand 0% down but only cover eligible rural zones — and Los Angeles County has very few qualifying areas.
FHA loans let you buy anywhere in Lynwood with a 580 credit score and 3.5% down. Mortgage insurance costs more than conventional loans but qualification is easier for borrowers with past credit issues.
You'll pay upfront mortgage insurance of 1.75% plus monthly premiums for the loan's life. These loans cap at $766,550 in Los Angeles County and accept debt ratios up to 50% with compensating factors.
USDA loans offer 100% financing but only for properties in designated rural areas. Lynwood sits in central Los Angeles County, which means most homes won't qualify for USDA eligibility.
Income limits restrict USDA loans to households earning less than the area median. You'll need 640+ credit and proof the property falls within a USDA-approved zone — rare in this part of LA County.
Down payment separates these programs immediately. FHA requires 3.5% cash; USDA requires zero but limits where and to whom it lends in dense urban counties like Los Angeles.
FHA works on condos, townhomes, and single-family homes anywhere in Lynwood. USDA restricts by income and geography, making it nearly unusable for most buyers in this city despite the zero-down benefit.
Most Lynwood buyers use FHA because USDA-eligible zones barely exist in Los Angeles County. Check the USDA eligibility map before assuming you qualify — the answer is usually no in urban areas.
If you can scrape together 3.5% down, FHA gives you flexibility to buy anywhere without income restrictions. USDA sounds attractive at 0% down but geography kills the deal for nearly all Lynwood properties.
Only if the property falls in a USDA-designated rural zone. Most of Lynwood is ineligible because Los Angeles County is densely populated.
USDA typically costs less monthly due to zero down and lower mortgage insurance. But FHA is your only realistic option in most Lynwood neighborhoods.
USDA caps income based on household size and area median. FHA has no income restrictions but limits how much you can borrow.
FHA accepts 580+ with 3.5% down. USDA lenders typically want 640+ though requirements vary by lender.
No. Both FHA and USDA charge upfront and monthly mortgage insurance for the life of the loan unless you refinance later.