For homebuyers who are looking to purchase a home in Arkansas that need $0 down financing the USDA Home Loan is the perfect solution. One of the first things they need to do is check the USDA eligibility map. This is the map used by the USDA to determine if a property is located in an eligible area.
In this guide, I will discuss how the USDA Eligibility Map works and how to use it correctly as well as highlight some of the eligible areas in Arkansas and the Benefits of USDA Loans in Arkansas.
What Is the USDA Eligibility Map?
The USDA Eligibility Map is an online tool provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that helps homebuyers and lenders determine if a home is eligible for the USDA Home Loan. The word rural is often misleading in that it makes people often think that the property must be on a farm or very remote. Homebuyers are often surprised at how close to major cities qualifying homes are.
Key USDA Eligibility Criteria:
- Location: Must be in an eligible rural area (determined by the map)
- Income Limits: Household income should not exceed 115% of the median income for the area
- Occupancy: The home must be a primary residence
How to Use the USDA Eligibility Map
- Visit the USDA Eligibility Website:
- Go to the USDA Eligibility Map.
- Enter the Property Address:
- If you have a specific address in mind, enter it to see if it qualifies. If you’re just browsing, you can zoom in on different areas to see which parts are eligible.
- Check the Shading:
- White areas = Eligible for USDA loans
- Tan or shaded areas = Not eligible (usually more densely populated cities)
USDA Eligible Areas in Arkansas
The vast majority of areas in Arkansas qualify for USDA financing. This makes the government-backed loan program a top choice for home Arkansas homebuyers. Here are a few of the areas that qualify within the state.
Eligible Areas Near Little Rock:
- Greenbrier: Just north of Conway, Greenbrier offers a small-town feel with easy access to the city.
- Vilonia: A growing community with affordable homes and a family-friendly atmosphere.
- Hensley & East End: Located just outside the Little Rock metro area, offering rural charm with city convenience.
Eligible Areas in Northwest Arkansas:
- Pea Ridge: A great option near Bentonville and Rogers, with new developments that still qualify.
- Prairie Grove: A historic town with a strong sense of community, perfect for families.
- Elkins: Offers a peaceful, rural vibe while being close to Fayetteville.
Eligible Areas in Central Arkansas:
- Mayflower: Nestled near Lake Conway, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Morrilton: Rich in history and outdoor recreation opportunities near Petit Jean State Park.
- Clinton: A charming town with affordable housing options and beautiful natural scenery.
Eligible Areas in Northeast Arkansas:
- Brookland: Just outside of Jonesboro, offering affordable housing in a growing community.
- Trumann: A small town with easy access to larger employment hubs in Northeast Arkansas.
Eligible Areas in Southern Arkansas:
- Camden: Known for its rich history and close-knit community.
- Magnolia: A vibrant town with a strong educational and cultural presence.
- Monticello: Offers a mix of small-town charm and educational opportunities, thanks to the University of Arkansas at Monticello.
Best Way to Find USDA-Eligible Homes in Arkansas
- Work with a USDA-Experienced Lender:
- They can guide you through the process and help verify eligibility.
- Double-Check the Map:
- Eligibility boundaries can change over time, so always verify the current map before making an offer.
- Consider Nearby Towns:
- Even if the city you’re targeting isn’t eligible, nearby towns might be—and they often offer more affordable housing options.
- Look for New Developments:
- Some new subdivisions in eligible areas still qualify, even if they’re near growing urban centers.
Why Choose a USDA Loan?
- Zero Down Payment: No need to save for a hefty down payment.
- Low Interest Rates: Competitive rates compared to conventional loans.
- Flexible Credit Guidelines: Great for first-time homebuyers or those with less-than-perfect credit.
- Lower Mortgage Insurance Costs: More affordable than FHA loans in many cases.
Ready to Find a USDA-Eligible Home in Arkansas?
If you are in the market to buy a new home and a down payment is an issue then you should look closely at the USDA Home Loan. There are many USDA-eligible areas in Arkansas. Places such as Greenbrier AR, Clinton AR, and Mayflower AR are all towns that qualify for the USDA Home Loan.
If you’re looking for affordable homes in USDA-eligible areas in Arkansas, now is the time to start your search. Whether you’re interested in small towns like Greenbrier, Mayflower, or Prairie Grove, or looking for a quiet spot near larger cities like Little Rock or Fayetteville, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you.
Want to know if your dream home qualifies for USDA financing?
Contact us today to get started with a USDA loan pre-approval, or search homes for sale in eligible areas now!