USDA Streamlined Refinancing
USDA Streamlined Refinancing is a simplified mortgage-refinancing option offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). It is intended for homeowners who used a USDA-issued home loan and want more affordable loan terms.
Key Takeaways:
– The USDA streamlined refinancing option allows current USDA loan borrowers to refinance for more affordable payment terms.
– USDA loans have lenient eligibility requirements for low- to moderate-income families in rural areas.
– Borrowers can refinance without the need for a new appraisal or home inspection.
Understanding USDA Streamlined Refinancing:
The USDA loan is available to rural and suburban homebuyers. The USDA offers direct loans and guarantees loans made by qualified lenders. These loans have lenient qualification standards and help low- to moderate-income borrowers purchase homes in mostly rural areas. An example is the Section 502 loan for low-income individuals and households in rural areas.
USDA has two refinancing programs – streamlined-assist and standard streamlined. It is similar to other federal streamlined refinancing options like FHA, VA, and HARP. Refinancing can include closing costs and escrow charges, resulting in no upfront cash needed.
Eligibility Requirements for USDA Streamlined Refinancing:
To be eligible for the streamlined-assist program, the home to be refinanced must be the borrower’s primary residence and have a USDA direct or guaranteed home loan. The borrower must have made 12 consecutive on-time payments, and the refinancing must reduce the payment by at least $50 per month. No credit report, appraisal, or property inspection is required. Income documentation must fall within USDA limits.
The standard streamlined program is similar but includes proof of current income and certain debt-to-income requirements. Benefits include no requirement to decrease the payment, and borrowers listed on the note can be removed if one original borrower remains, which is helpful in cases of divorce.
USDA Streamlined Refinancing Rates:
To refinance a guaranteed loan, check the USDA’s list of approved lenders. Comparing terms and interest rates is essential to get the best terms.
USDA Loan Refinancing Options:
The USDA offers direct loans and guarantees loans issued by private lenders to low- and moderate-income borrowers in rural areas. The programs for refinancing these loans are streamlined-assist and standard streamlined.
Refinancing Requirements for USDA Loans:
Both programs require the home to be a primary residence with a USDA direct or guaranteed home loan, among other requirements. No appraisal or inspection is needed. Standard refinance considers debt-to-income ratios.
Benefits of USDA Streamlined Refinancing:
The main benefit is lower loan payments. Streamlined refinancing offers a hassle-free way to refinance a USDA mortgage.
