With a USDA Direct loan where it is noted "modest" in size, is there a square footage required?

Hi Patti, I have looked through our guidelines and I don't see anything regarding actual square footage limitations for USDA loans. USDA does have property and income eligibility, so I think those two items kind of keep the home modest by default. Here is teh website to do income and property eligibility checks or you can call me and I'll walk you through it: http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/eligibility/welcomeAction.do John Moran W. J. Bradley 480-368-7715

There is no square footage requirement, the home just has to be in a USDA defined area to qualify for financing.. because USDA has income caps, you wouldn't be able to use their financing for any thing extravagant anyway.. The best advice I can give you is to contact a LOCAL mortgage broker and apply with them. Do not use the local "Big" bank, or one of those 50 states internet lenders or nationwide lenders...By applying with your LOCAL Broker, you have an advantage because he's familiar with local customs and works with numerous lenders, seeking out the best loan terms for your particular scenario. Because he has lower overhead, he can offer you lower rates and lower fees than most of the larger lenders.. I'm a Broker here in Scottsdale AZ and I only lend in Arizona. If you or someone you know is looking for financing options, feel free to contact me or pass along my information. William J. Acres, Lender411's number ONE lender in Arizona. 480-287-5714 WilliamAcres.com

I think the key here is you are referring to a USDA DIRECT loan rather than a guaranteed loan where a lender is involved - they are two different programs. I'm not as familiar with their current guidelines but there used to be specific guidelines for size of the home based on the number of people who would be living there. Check with the USDA/ Rural Development Administration County or state office which you should be able to find in the phone book under US Government offices.

Typical minimums run from 400 to 600 square feet, depending on what is typical for the area.