If you want to buy a home in Yerington but worry about the down payment, you are not alone. Many first-time and budget-focused buyers in Lyon County use USDA financing to keep cash to close low while locking in a stable payment. In this guide, you will learn how USDA loans work, who qualifies in Lyon County, how to check if a property address is eligible, and what steps to take next with local lenders. Let’s dive in.
What is a USDA loan?
USDA Single-Family Housing loans help eligible buyers purchase a primary residence in designated rural areas. The program focuses on modest, owner-occupied homes and offers fixed-rate mortgages with consumer-friendly terms.
Guaranteed vs. Direct loans
- Guaranteed Loan Program (Section 502 Guaranteed): You work with a USDA-approved private lender, and USDA guarantees the loan. It commonly allows 100 percent financing for eligible buyers with no required down payment. Explore details on the USDA site under the Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program.
- Direct Loan Program (Section 502 Direct): USDA lends directly to very-low and low-income applicants, with payment assistance that can reduce the effective interest rate for eligible households. See the Single-Family Housing Direct Home Loans page for current guidance.
Links for reference:
- Learn about the Guaranteed Loan Program on the USDA Rural Development site: USDA Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program.
- Learn about the Direct Loan Program here: USDA Single-Family Housing Direct Home Loans.
Key benefits for Yerington buyers
- No required down payment for many eligible buyers using the guaranteed program.
- Fixed interest rates that help you budget with confidence.
- Flexible underwriting compared to some conventional loans, which can help if your file needs a little latitude on credit history or debt-to-income ratio.
- Designed for primary residence purchases in eligible rural areas, including many parts of Lyon County.
- Focused on modest, owner-occupied homes, which fits much of Yerington’s housing stock.
Who qualifies in Lyon County
USDA looks at two big buckets: your household’s income and the property’s location and condition. Lenders will also review your credit, debts, and employment history to confirm ability to repay.
Income limits and how to check
USDA sets income limits by county and household size. For eligibility, lenders consider projected household income for the next 12 months and may include income from non-borrowing adults who will live in the home, with certain allowed deductions.
- Use the USDA tool to confirm current figures for Lyon County: USDA income eligibility lookup.
- Household size matters. More dependents generally increase the allowable income cap.
- If you are close to the limit, talk with a USDA-approved lender. Some deductions may help.
Credit, debts, and documentation
Many lenders use automated underwriting that often prefers a score in the mid-600s for smoother approvals. Lower scores can sometimes be considered with manual underwriting and compensating factors. Expect to verify income and assets with pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns, and bank statements.
Is the property eligible in Yerington?
USDA bases property eligibility on mapped rural areas. Much of Lyon County retains a rural character, but eligibility is address-specific and can change over time. Always check the exact address.
Use the official tool: USDA property eligibility tool.
How to check an address
- Open the USDA property eligibility tool.
- Choose Single-Family Housing, then select Property Eligibility.
- Enter the full address in Yerington and run the search.
- Review the result. If eligible, the system will note that status and provide a printable determination lenders can use.
- If it is not eligible, try nearby addresses or different neighborhoods in Lyon County to compare.
Property types and condition
USDA financing supports owner-occupied single-family homes. Some condominiums may qualify if they meet USDA requirements. Manufactured homes can be eligible if permanently affixed to a foundation and compliant with program standards. The home must be modest, safe, and meet USDA property condition guidelines. The appraisal will confirm both value and that the property meets program standards.
Acreage and outbuildings
Smaller residential parcels are typical. Properties primarily used for commercial farming or income-producing activities are not typical USDA candidates. If the home includes outbuildings or agricultural features, ask your lender to review details early.
Guaranteed vs. Direct: which fits you
- Choose the Guaranteed Loan Program if you have moderate income for Lyon County, stable employment, and want 100 percent financing with a private lender. It is the most common choice for first-time buyers.
- Consider the Direct Loan Program if your household income is very low or low and you cannot qualify with an approved lender. Payment assistance may reduce your effective interest rate.
When in doubt, speak with a USDA-approved lender about both paths. You can also contact the Nevada state office for program guidance: USDA Rural Development — Nevada State Office.
Costs and fees to plan for
USDA guaranteed loans include an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee that are subject to change. Direct loans have different payment assistance rules. Because these figures update, confirm current costs with your lender and review the USDA program page for the most recent details: USDA Single-Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program.
You will also budget for standard buyer costs like appraisal, credit report, escrow, and prepaid items. Your lender can provide a Loan Estimate that outlines these expenses.
Step-by-step: get prequalified in Yerington
- Check the address. Use the USDA property eligibility tool to confirm the home’s location qualifies.
- Confirm income. Use the USDA income eligibility lookup for Lyon County and your household size.
- Gather documents:
- Photo ID and Social Security number
- Last 2 pay stubs or proof of steady income
- Last 2 years of W-2s and tax returns
- If self-employed, last 2 years of personal and business returns
- Recent bank statements and asset records
- Notes on any credit challenges or large deposits
- Talk with USDA-approved lenders. Ask about recent experience with USDA guaranteed loans in Lyon County and whether your file fits automated or manual underwriting.
- If you need extra guidance, contact the USDA Rural Development — Nevada State Office to confirm program rules and local contacts.
- Explore additional state resources. The Nevada Housing Division offers homebuyer information that can complement your plan.
Typical timeline
- Address and income checks: same day using online tools.
- Lender prequalification: about 1 to 3 days once documents are submitted.
- From contract to closing: often 30 to 60 days, depending on appraisal timing, underwriting, and property-specific items.
Practical tips for Yerington shoppers
- Start with eligibility. Confirm address and income early so you can write offers confidently.
- Ask about manufactured homes. If you are considering one, verify the foundation and program standards with your lender before you submit an offer.
- Keep files clean. Respond quickly to lender requests for documents or explanations. A fast turn can keep your closing on track.
- Focus on condition. USDA requires the property to meet basic health and safety standards. Work with your agent and lender to understand any repairs that might be needed.
Your next step
If you are ready to look at USDA-eligible homes in Yerington, a local guide can make the difference. As a Fallon-based team that works across Northern Nevada, we connect you with lenders experienced in USDA loans, help you target eligible properties, and move from search to closing with confidence. Have questions about a specific address or how to position your offer? Schedule a Meeting with the Faught Group to get started.
FAQs
Can I use a USDA loan inside Yerington?
- Possibly. Eligibility is address-specific. Use the USDA property eligibility tool to check a specific property.
Do USDA loans require a down payment in Lyon County?
- The guaranteed program is designed to allow eligible buyers to purchase with no required down payment. Confirm current fees and closing costs with your lender.
What income qualifies for a USDA loan in Lyon County?
- Income limits vary by household size and are updated periodically. Check the USDA income eligibility lookup for current Lyon County limits.
What credit score do I need for USDA financing?
- Many lenders prefer mid-600s scores for automated approvals. Manual underwriting can sometimes allow lower scores with compensating factors. Ask local USDA-experienced lenders about your options.
Can I buy a manufactured home with a USDA loan in Yerington?
- Yes, if it meets USDA requirements, including a permanent foundation and program standards. Verify details with your lender before making an offer.