Use the interactive map below to determine if your property is eligible for USDA Rural Development programs. Simply enter your address in the search box within the map to see the eligibility status for your location.
✅ Eligible Areas
Rural areas and towns with populations under 35,000 are typically eligible for USDA programs including home loans, grants, and business development assistance.
❌ Ineligible Areas
Urban areas and cities with populations over 35,000 are generally not eligible. These areas are shown in different colors on the map.
USDA Eligibility Map
🔗 Interactive Map
Use the “Find Your Address” search box in the map below to locate your property and determine USDA eligibility. Green areas indicate eligible locations, while gray areas are typically ineligible.
1. Click on the “Find Your Address” search box in the map above 2. Enter your complete address (street, city, state, ZIP) 3. Press Enter or click the search button 4. The map will show your location and indicate eligibility status
🏛️ USDA Rural Development Programs
If your property is in an eligible area, you may qualify for various USDA Rural Development programs:
Single Family Housing: Direct and guaranteed loans for homebuyers with low to moderate incomes
Home Repair Grants: Financial assistance for low-income homeowners to make essential repairs
Business Programs: Loans and grants to support rural business development and job creation
Community Facilities: Funding for essential community services like healthcare and education
❓ Need Help?
If you need assistance determining eligibility or want to learn more about USDA Rural Development programs, contact your local USDA Rural Development office or visit the official website.
By Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS ID: 57916
If you’re planning to buy your first home in Kentucky with a USDA loan, big changes are coming that could affect your buying power. Starting November 4, 2025, the USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) will tighten its affordability standards.
As a Kentucky mortgage loan officer who has helped more than 1,300 families become homeowners, I want to break down what this means, who it impacts, and how you can prepare.
What’s Changing with USDA Loans in 2025?
The USDA is updating its affordability guidelines by setting the maximum PITI ratio at 29%.
What’s PITI? It stands for Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance—your total monthly housing payment compared to your gross monthly income.
Here’s the key difference:
Before November 4, 2025 – USDA allowed more flexible debt-to-income ratios.
After November 4, 2025 – Borrowers will be capped at 29% of gross monthly income for their housing payment.
Translation for Kentucky homebuyers: On the same income, you may qualify for a smaller loan amount than you would under current rules.
Exceptions: How Strong Borrowers Can Still Qualify Above 29%
The 29% cap isn’t a hard stop for everyone. If you have strong credit and compensating factors, you may still qualify for a higher PITI ratio.
Two Main Pathways:
1. Automated Approval (GUS Accept) The USDA’s automated underwriting system (GUS) looks at your entire financial picture. If it issues an “Accept,” higher PITI ratios may still be allowed.
2. Ratio Waiver (Up to 32%) You may qualify for a waiver allowing up to a 32% PITI ratio if:
All borrowers have credit scores of 680 or higher
Your application shows approved compensating factors, such as:
This gives responsible Kentucky first-time homebuyers with solid credit extra flexibility—even under the new rule.
Why November 4, 2025, Is a Critical Deadline
The implementation date is firm, and here’s how it works:
Loans with a Conditional Commitment before November 4, 2025 will follow current guidelines.
Loans without a Conditional Commitment by November 4, 2025 must meet the new 29% PITI rule.
Important caveat: Even if you had a Commitment before the deadline, if your file is released or resubmitted after November 4, the new guidelines apply.
f you’re planning to use a USDA loan in Kentucky, timing matters.
What This Means for Kentucky First-Time Homebuyers
For Standard Borrowers:
Expect to qualify for less house after November 4, 2025
Consider accelerating your home search timeline
Focus on credit score improvement to boost eligibility
For Strong-Credit Borrowers (680+ scores):
You may still qualify up to 32% PITI with a waiver
Strong credit management gives you more options
Use this as leverage to maintain your buying power
For All Kentucky Homebuyers:
Act sooner rather than later if considering a USDA loan
Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC): Down payment assistance remains available to first-time homebuyers. This can help offset stricter USDA guidelines.
Rural Housing Benefits: USDA loans are still a top option for rural Kentucky families, offering low rates and zero down payment. Use the USDA Property Eligibility Map or my Kentucky USDA property map guide to check if your dream home qualifies.
Local Market Knowledge: From Louisville suburbs to Eastern Kentucky, each market has unique opportunities that an experienced local lender can help you navigate.
Explore Other Loan Options in Kentucky
While USDA loans are powerful, they’re not your only choice. Other strong programs include:
Conventional Loans – Competitive rates for buyers with good credit
The mortgage landscape is tightening, but proactive planning puts you in control. Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Kentucky or looking to upgrade, now is the time to strategize.
📞 Contact Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer
I offer free mortgage consultations with same-day approvals to help Kentucky families make the most of these changing guidelines. Let’s build a plan that works for you.
About the Author
Joel Lobb is a Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer specializing in first-time homebuyer programs, including FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC loans. With over 20 years of experience, Joel has helped more than 1,300 Kentucky families achieve homeownership. NMLS Personal ID: 57916 | Company NMLS ID: 1738461
EVO Mortgage • Company NMLS #1738461 • Personal NMLS #57916
Equal Housing Lender
Disclosures: Program terms, eligibility, and pricing subject to change without notice. Not a commitment to lend. All loans subject to credit approval, acceptable collateral, and underwriting conditions. Geographic, income, and property restrictions may apply (including KHC/USDA). This content is for informational purposes only and not legal, financial, or tax advice. Verify current guidelines with your loan officer.
Get Expert Help With Your Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Loan that is a foreclosure or fixer-upper with fixed income
Are you considering a USDA rural housing loan in Kentucky to purchase a foreclosed property or fixer-upper home? This comprehensive guide walks Kentucky homebuyers through everything you need to know about USDA 502 Direct and Guaranteed loans. It is especially useful if you are living on fixed income. It’s also helpful for those on Social Security benefits, disability payments, or lower wages.
Can Kentucky Residents Use USDA Rural Housing Loans for Foreclosures or Fixer-Uppers?
Yes, with important conditions. While USDA loans offer an excellent path to affordable homeownership in rural Kentucky communities, these properties must meet specific standards:
The home must be structurally sound
The property must be move-in ready (safe and sanitary)
All essential systems must be functional
The property must be located in a USDA-eligible rural area in Kentucky
Many Kentucky foreclosures can qualify for USDA financing if they’re in good condition or if repairs are completed before closing.
Kentucky USDA Loan Programs: Which Works Best for Your Situation?
Kentucky homebuyers have two primary USDA rural housing loan options:
USDA 502 Direct Loan Program (Kentucky Low-Income Buyers)
Income Requirements: 50-80% of Kentucky area median income
Funding Source: Direct from USDA (government-funded)
Perfect For: Very low to low-income Kentucky residents
Credit Flexibility: Higher flexibility with manual underwriting
Down Payment: $0 down payment required
Mortgage Insurance: Lower annual fee (0.35%)
DTI Ratios: May permit higher DTI with strong residual income
Asset Restrictions: Stricter requirements (cannot have excessive assets)
Best For: Kentucky families with lower, stable incomes including fixed income and disability benefits
USDA 502 Guaranteed Loan Program (Kentucky Moderate-Income Buyers)
Income Requirements: Up to 115% of Kentucky area median income
Funding Source: Private Kentucky lenders with USDA guarantee
Get Pre-Qualified: Work with a Kentucky lender experienced in USDA rural housing loans
Property Inspection: Have any potential foreclosure or fixer-upper thoroughly inspected early
Select Appropriate Program: Determine whether Direct or Guaranteed better suits your circumstances
Prepare Documentation: Gather income verification, tax returns, benefit award letters, and other required paperwork
Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Loans
Can I use a Kentucky USDA loan to purchase a foreclosed property?
Yes, if the foreclosed home meets all USDA livability and safety standards.
Do Kentucky USDA loans accept disability income for qualification?
Absolutely. Both SSI and SSDI are eligible income sources and can often be “grossed up” by 25% if non-taxable.
What if my desired Kentucky property needs repairs?
USDA Guaranteed loans may allow an escrow holdback for minor repairs (typically up to $10,000). Major issues will disqualify the property.
How do Kentucky’s 502 Direct loans differ from Guaranteed loans?
Direct loans are specifically for very low-income borrowers with tighter restrictions; Guaranteed loans accommodate moderate-income buyers and utilize private lenders. View Kentucky income limits here.
Are manufactured homes eligible for Kentucky USDA loans?
Yes, provided they meet HUD standards and are permanently attached to a foundation.
Can I combine Kentucky Housing Corporation down payment assistance with USDA?
Yes, KHC programs can often be paired with USDA loans for additional assistance.
Get Expert Help With Your Kentucky USDA Rural Housing Loan
Need assistance navigating Kentucky’s USDA rural housing loan options? Our experienced mortgage professionals specialize in helping Kentucky homebuyers with fixed income, disability benefits, and unique financing needs.
5 Bad Credit Mortgage Options in Kentucky for Homebuyers
By Joel Lobb, Senior Loan Officer | NMLS #57916 | Louisville, KY
Bad Credit Mortgage Options in Kentucky | FHA, VA, USDA, and More
Discover 5 bad credit mortgage solutions in Kentucky. Learn about FHA, VA, USDA, Non-QM loans, and KHC Down Payment Assistance with Joel Lobb, Mortgage Loan Officer.
Can You Get a Mortgage with Bad Credit in Kentucky?
Absolutely. As a mortgage broker who has helped over 1,300 Kentucky families achieve homeownership, I can assure you that bad credit doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker. With the right loan program and personalized guidance, you can buy a home even with less-than-perfect credit.
Several government-backed and alternative loan programs are designed specifically for buyers facing credit challenges. Let’s dive into the top 5 options available in Kentucky today.
1. FHA Loan – Credit Scores from 500+
Best For: First-time homebuyers and low-credit borrowers
† When used with FHA, VA, or USDA *Lender overlays may apply
Credit Score Requirements
. Minimum scores vary significantly by program:
Conventional Loans: Require a minimum credit score of 620, with higher scores (660+) needed for Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) assistance programs
FHA Loans: Permit scores as low as 500 with a 10% down payment or 580 with 3.5% down, though lenders often impose stricter floors (580–620) due to risk assessments.
USDA Loans: Typically mandate 640+ scores for automated underwriting. However, manual reviews may accept 620–640 with compensating factors like stable employment
VA Loans: While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs does not set a minimum, most lenders require 580–620 for favorable terms
Income Limits
Income restrictions apply primarily to state-assisted programs:
KHC Programs: Income caps
USDA Loans: Target low-to-moderate income households, with limits adjusted by county and household size
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratios
Lenders evaluate borrowers’ ability to manage monthly payments relative to income:
Conventional Loans: Maximum DTI of 43%, though KHC programs extend this to 50% with strong credit profiles
FHA Loans: Allow DTIs up to 57% if justified by Automated Underwriting System (AUS) approvals
VA Loans: Cap DTI at 41%, supplemented by residual income requirements
Property Requirements
Primary Residence: All programs mandate occupancy within 60 days of closing
Purchase Price Limits: KHC-imposed ceilings of $510,939 for single-family homes, adjusted periodically for inflation
Geographic Restrictions: USDA loans apply only to properties in rural areas, as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Programs
Conventional Preferred and Plus 80
These flagship programs offer 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with reduced mortgage insurance premiums:
Down Payment: Minimum 3%, sourced from personal savings, gifts, or KHC assistance
Credit Score: 660+ for Conventional Preferred; slightly lower scores may qualify for Plus 80 with higher income thresholds
Income Limits: Up to 80% of AMI for Conventional Preferred; Plus 80 accommodates incomes up to $183,400 in designated counties
Education: Completion of a HUD-approved homebuyer education course is mandatory for conventional loans
Mortgage Revenue Bond Program
This initiative provides below-market interest rates for government-backed loans:
Eligibility: First-time buyers in non-targeted areas; repeat buyers permitted in targeted zones
Combined Assistance: This may be paired with KHC’s Down Payment Assistance (DPA). It offers up to $10,000 as a second mortgage at 3.75% interest over 10 years
Down Payment Assistance (DPA)
Structure: Second mortgage with 10-year term, forgivable if the borrower retains the property for the duration
Usage: Funds applicable to down payments, closing costs, and prepaid expenses
Cannot be used to fix up house or buy stuff for home
Loan Programs
FHA Loans
Insured by the Federal Housing Administration, these loans cater to borrowers with imperfect credit:
Down Payment: 3.5% with a 580+ credit score; 10% for scores between 500–579
Mortgage Insurance: Upfront premium of 1.75% plus annual premiums of 0.45–1.05%
Flexibility: Higher DTIs permitted with compensating factors like significant cash reserves
USDA Loans
Designed for rural homebuyers, USDA loans offer 100% financing:
Income Limits: 115% of AMI for most counties, adjusted for household size
Credit Requirements: 640+ for automated approval; manual underwriting required for scores 620–640
Property Eligibility: Must be located in USDA-designated rural zones,
VA Loans
Exclusive to veterans, active-duty personnel, and eligible spouses:
Down Payment: 0% required, with no private mortgage insurance (PMI)
Funding Fee: 1.25–3.3% of the loan amount, varying by service category and down payment
Credit Standards: Most lenders require 580–620 scores, though the VA itself imposes no minimum
Income and Purchase Price Limitations
KHC Programs: Income limits fluctuate by county;
USDA Income limits fluctuate by county;
VA has no income limits
FHA had no income limits
Employment Verification
Stability: Most programs require two years of steady employment, with exceptions for graduates entering the workforce
Self-Employment: Requires two years of tax returns to verify income consistency
Evo Mortgage Company NMLS# 1738461 Personal NMLS# 57916
For assistance with Kentucky mortgage loans, reach out via email, call, or text Joel Lobb directly.
Kentucky Local Home Loan Lender Services
First-Time Home Buyers Welcome FHA, Rural Housing (USDA), VA, and Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Loans Conventional Loan Options Available Fast Local Decision-Making Experienced Guidance Through the Home Buying Process
Kentucky USDA Mortgage Lender for Rural Housing Loans 