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in Corte Madera, CA
Both FHA and USDA loans are government-backed. Both offer below-market entry points for buyers with limited cash.
But in Corte Madera, one of these loans is almost certainly off the table. Here's how to tell which one fits you.
FHA loans require just 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop to 500-579 and you'll need 10% down.
You pay mortgage insurance upfront and monthly. That cost is real — but it's what keeps the down payment low.
USDA loans offer 100% financing — zero down. There's no monthly mortgage insurance premium like FHA charges.
The catch: the property must be in a USDA-eligible area. Most of Corte Madera does not qualify.
Local decision guide
Use this comparison to weigh FHA Loans and USDA Loans through local payment fit, eligibility, documentation, and timing before choosing a path in Corte Madera.
Both FHA and USDA loans are government-backed. Both offer below-market entry points for buyers with limited cash.
But in Corte Madera, one of these loans is almost certainly off the table. Here's how to tell which one fits you.
FHA loans require just 3.5% down with a 580 credit score. Drop to 500-579 and you'll need 10% down.
FHA has no geographic restriction. USDA only works in designated rural and suburban zones — Corte Madera rarely qualifies.
USDA has stricter income caps. FHA has no income limit, just debt-to-income guidelines lenders enforce at approval.
For most Corte Madera buyers, FHA is the only realistic option between these two. USDA eligibility here is extremely limited.
If you're buying in a rural part of Marin and you meet the income limits, USDA can save you thousands upfront. Verify the address first.
Most of Corte Madera does not meet USDA rural eligibility. Run the specific address through the USDA eligibility map before counting on this loan.
USDA mortgage insurance is cheaper than FHA's. But rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions — run both scenarios with us.
Yes, but the condo project must be FHA-approved. Not all Marin County condo buildings carry that approval — check before you make an offer.
Yes. USDA sets income limits by household size and county. Marin's high median incomes mean many buyers here get disqualified on income alone.
FHA allows scores down to 500. USDA typically wants 640 or better for automated approval. FHA is more flexible on credit.
FHA allows 2-4 unit properties if you occupy one unit. USDA is for single-family primary residences only.