USDA Loans
USDA Home Loans in La Plata County, CO
Benefits of USDA Guaranteed Home Loans
United States Department of Agriculture
- Low down payment options for eligible rural homes
- No cash reserves required
- Seller can pay closing costs
- Income limitations
- Often a good fit for first-time buyers
- Less cash needed at closing
For clients who are buying their first home, have a smaller savings account, or with a limited income, USDA loans are a great, affordable, first mortgage to help you buy a home. With very low cash requirements and flexible underwriting guidelines, USDA loans can help you achieve the dream of home ownership.
Learn more about working with a local Durango mortgage lender.
Is my household income under the USDA limit?
USDA loans have a household income limit that depends on your county and how many people live in your home. Check yours in a few seconds.
USDA counts the income of everyone in the household who is 18 or older, not just the people on the loan. This is a quick check, not a loan approval. Source: USDA Rural Development FY 2026 guaranteed loan income limits (table dated July 13, 2026). Limits are updated each year.
USDA Loans in La Plata County
USDA guaranteed loans are for homes in eligible rural areas. Much of La Plata County outside Durango city limits can qualify, including many areas around Bayfield and Ignacio. Eligibility depends on the property address and your household income, so it’s worth checking before you start shopping.
How to check eligibility
- The property: look up the address on the USDA property eligibility map, or send it to Peter.
- Your household income: USDA limits are based on household size and county, and count income from everyone in the household, not just the people on the loan.
- Occupancy: the home must be your primary residence.
USDA Loan Questions
Is my address eligible for a USDA loan?
Check the address on the USDA property eligibility map, or send it to Peter and he will look it up. Eligible areas are updated from time to time, so check even if a nearby home did not qualify in the past.
What are the USDA income limits?
Limits depend on your household size and the county, and they count income from everyone in the household. Peter can calculate your household income the way USDA does. To see the current limit for your county, use the USDA income check near the top of this page.
Can I buy a home with acreage?
Often, yes, as long as the property is mainly residential and not an income-producing farm or ranch. Wells, septic and road access need to meet USDA standards.
Does a USDA loan have mortgage insurance?
USDA loans have an upfront guarantee fee, which can usually be financed into the loan, plus an annual fee paid monthly.
Do I have to be a first-time buyer?
No. You generally can’t own another home in the area that is adequate for your needs, and the USDA home must be your primary residence.
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