Question 1

Does Turlock have USDA-eligible properties?

Accepted Answer

Parts of Turlock and surrounding Stanislaus County qualify. Eligibility is address-specific — check the USDA map or ask us to pull it for you.

Question 2

Which loan has lower mortgage insurance?

Accepted Answer

USDA's annual fee is typically lower than FHA's monthly MIP. FHA also charges a 1.75% upfront premium that USDA's guarantee fee often undercuts.

Question 3

Can I use USDA if I earn too much?

Accepted Answer

No. USDA sets household income limits based on county and family size. If you're over the cap, FHA has no income ceiling.

Question 4

What credit score do I need for each loan?

Accepted Answer

FHA allows as low as 580 for 3.5% down. Most USDA lenders want 640 or higher, though some go lower with strong compensating factors.

Question 5

Can I use either loan for a fixer-upper?

Accepted Answer

FHA has a 203k rehab option for properties needing work. USDA requires homes to meet minimum condition standards and has no standard rehab product.

Question 6

Which loan closes faster?

Accepted Answer

FHA generally moves faster. USDA loans require a second review by the USDA office, which adds days to the timeline. Plan accordingly.

FHA vs USDA Loans in Turlock, CA