USDA vs FHA vs VA
| USDA | FHA | VA | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum down | 0% | 3.5% | 0% |
| Upfront fee | 1.00% | 1.75% | 1.25% to 3.3% |
| Annual / monthly insurance | 0.35% | About 0.55% | None |
| Location rules | Eligible areas only | None | None |
| Income limit | About 115% of area median | None | None |
USDA also requires the home to be your primary residence and a modest property. Fees shown are the published guaranteed-program rates and may change each fiscal year. Compare with the FHA calculator if the property is outside an eligible area.