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Monrovia sits in a gray area for USDA eligibility. Parts of the city qualify as suburban under USDA maps, but you need to check your exact address. Properties near the foothills often make the cut.
Most Monrovia buyers assume they don't qualify because they're in LA County. That's a mistake. USDA draws boundaries street by street, not by county lines.
You need a 640 credit score minimum with most lenders. Income can't exceed 115% of area median for LA County. That's roughly $130,000 for a family of four, but verify current limits.
The property must be your primary residence and meet USDA property standards. No investment properties. No second homes. The house needs to be move-in ready with basic systems functional.
Not every lender handles USDA loans. Many big banks skip them entirely because the underwriting takes longer. You need a broker with direct access to lenders who specialize in government programs.
Processing time runs 45-60 days typically. USDA adds a layer of approval beyond the lender. Budget extra time if you're in escrow. Sellers need to understand this isn't a 30-day close.
Check USDA eligibility before you tour properties. The worst scenario is falling in love with a house that doesn't qualify. Takes five minutes online to verify an address.
Sellers often balk at USDA offers because they fear delays. A strong pre-approval from a known USDA lender fixes this. Show them you're serious and your lender knows the process.
FHA requires 3.5% down and works anywhere in Monrovia. USDA offers zero down but limits where you can buy. If your property qualifies, USDA saves you thousands in upfront cash.
VA loans also offer zero down with no income limits. If you're a veteran, VA beats USDA every time. For non-veterans in eligible zones, USDA is the only zero-down option.
Northern Monrovia near the mountains has better USDA eligibility odds. Central and southern areas closer to Huntington Drive often miss the designation. Pull up the USDA map before you start looking.
Property prices in Monrovia can push you over USDA loan limits faster than you'd think. The program caps at standard conforming limits, which work fine for most local inventory but watch out for larger homes.
No. Only specific zones qualify, mostly in northern areas near the foothills. Check the USDA eligibility map with your exact address before shopping.
Household income can't exceed 115% of LA County median, roughly $130,000 for a four-person household. Limits adjust based on family size.
Plan for 45-60 days minimum. USDA adds approval steps beyond standard lender underwriting, which extends timelines compared to conventional loans.
No. The property must meet USDA livability standards at purchase. Major repairs or renovations disqualify the property until work is complete.
Yes. USDA charges a 1% upfront fee and 0.35% annual fee. Both are lower than FHA mortgage insurance despite zero down payment.
USDA Loans in Monrovia