RD/USDA Mortgage Loans
Dreaming of owning a home in a rural area? People Driven Credit Union can help make that dream a reality with our RD/USDA Mortgage Loan. These loans, backed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), offer favorable terms and benefits designed to promote homeownership in eligible rural and suburban areas. An RD/USDA Mortgage Loan is a government-backed loan program aimed at helping low-to-moderate-income households purchase homes in eligible rural areas. These loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible credit requirements, making homeownership accessible for more families.
Membership and eligibility requirements apply, with approval subject to application, credit, and property considerations.
Benefits of an RD/USDA Mortgage Loan
No Down Payment: One of the standout benefits of USDA loans is the ability to purchase a home with no down payment, reducing the upfront cost of homeownership.
Competitive Interest Rates: USDA loans typically offer lower interest rates compared to conventional loans, helping you save money over the life of your loan.
Flexible Credit Requirements: USDA loans are designed to accommodate a range of credit scores, making it easier for more people to qualify.
Low Monthly Mortgage Insurance: USDA loans have lower mortgage insurance costs compared to FHA and conventional loans with low down payments.
Finance Closing Costs: In some cases, closing costs can be included in the loan, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.
Why Choose People Driven Credit Union for Your RD/USDA Loan?
At People Driven Credit Union, we are committed to helping you achieve your homeownership goals. Our team of experienced mortgage specialists will guide you through the RD/USDA loan process, ensuring you understand your options and get the best possible terms.
Expert Guidance: Our mortgage specialists have extensive knowledge of USDA loan requirements and will support you through every step of the application process.
Member Focused: As a member-owned credit union, we prioritize your best interests and strive to offer competitive rates and low fees.
Local Market Knowledge: We have a deep understanding of the local housing market and can offer valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet Our PDCU Mortgage Specialist
Michelle Dzon is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of People Driven Credit Union. Contact her for personalized assistance with your mortgage needs.Michelle Dzon
Member First Mortgage
michelle.dzon@memberfirstmortgage.com
616-301-1714 | NMLS ID: #401292
- No Down Payment: Purchase a home without needing a down payment.
- Competitive Interest Rates: Benefit from lower interest rates compared to conventional loans.
- Flexible Credit Requirements: Qualify with a range of credit scores.
- Low Monthly Mortgage Insurance: Enjoy lower mortgage insurance costs compared to FHA and conventional loans.
- Finance Closing Costs: In some cases, closing costs can be included in the loan amount.
What Factors Impact My USDA Loan Amount?
While USDA loans don’t have official loan limits like FHA loans or conventional loans, several factors still influence how much you can borrow. These include your gross household income, monthly debts, credit profile, and the appraised value of the home. The USDA requires that your total monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) stays within a specific debt-to-income (DTI) ratio—usually around 41%.Don’t Forget About USDA Income Limits
USDA loans are designed to help moderate-income families, which means your eligibility—and loan amount—will depend in part on where you live. Each area has specific income limits based on household size and median income. If your household income exceeds the local limit, you may not qualify for a USDA loan, regardless of the property price.Getting Prequalified Is the Best First Step
If you're wondering how much you can borrow, the best next move is to get prequalified by a USDA-approved lender. Prequalification gives you a clearer idea of your loan potential based on your income, credit, and debts—so you can shop for homes with confidence and stay within your budget.Have More Questions? Contact PDCU to Learn More
If you are considering a USDA loan, contact our loan specialist to learn more. We also have a variety of other mortgage products that might meet your needs. When you have questions, People Driven Credit Union has answers.Buying a Fixer-Upper? USDA Loans May Not Be the Right Fit
USDA loans are designed for move-in-ready homes. If you’re thinking about purchasing a fixer-upper or a property that needs significant work, this loan type may not be ideal. That said, the USDA does offer separate programs—such as the Section 504 Home Repair loan—for eligible homeowners who want to make limited improvements or repairs.How Long Does it Take to Get a USDA Loan Approval?
While the timeline to close on a USDA loan can be similar to conventional loans, it often takes a bit longer due to an additional approval step by the USDA itself. After your lender completes underwriting, the loan must also be reviewed and signed off by the USDA, which adds a few extra days to the timeline. Typically, you can expect the process to take between 30 and 45 days, depending on your location and how quickly documents are submitted.Contact PDCU to Learn More About USDA Loans
If you think a USDA loan might be right for you, contact our loan specialist to learn more. We also have a variety of other mortgage products that might meet your needs. People Driven Credit Union is here for you for every step of your home ownership journey.The USDA loan process involves several steps:
- Pre-qualification: Determine if you meet basic eligibility requirements.
- Pre-approval: Submit financial documents for a more detailed evaluation.
- Property Selection: Find a home in an eligible rural or suburban area.
- Loan Application: Complete a formal loan application and provide necessary documentation.
- Underwriting: The lender reviews your application and the property’s appraisal.
- Approval and Closing: Once approved, you’ll sign the final loan documents and close on your new home.
Key Benefits of USDA Refinancing
- Reduced Documentation: The streamlined process requires fewer documents than a new loan application
- Lower Interest Rates: Opportunity to secure more favorable rates in a better rate environment
- Adjusted Loan Terms: Flexibility to modify your repayment timeline to better suit your financial situation
- No New Home Appraisal: In many cases, you can skip the appraisal process, saving time and money
- Lower Closing Costs: Typically features reduced fees compared to traditional refinancing
Potential Savings and Benefits
Refinancing through the USDA program can provide significant financial advantages:- Interest Savings: Even a 1% rate reduction can save thousands over the life of your loan
- Payment Reduction: Lower monthly payments improve cash flow and budget flexibility
- Term Adjustment: Option to shorten loan term to build equity faster or extend it to lower payments
- No Maximum Loan Amount: Loan can include the principal balance, eligible closing costs, and guarantee fee
Michelle Dzon
Member First Mortgage
michelle.dzon@memberfirstmortgage.com
616-301-1714 | NMLS ID: #401292
Private mortgage insurance, or PMI, is insurance that helps protect the lender if a borrower stops making payments on a conventional mortgage loan. PMI is typically required when your down payment is less than 20% of the home’s purchase price or original value.
When PMI is usually required
PMI is most commonly required on a conventional mortgage when you put less than 20% down. It increases the cost of the loan, but it may also help you qualify for a mortgage sooner if you do not have a larger down payment.
When PMI may be removed
In many cases, you can ask to remove PMI once your loan balance reaches 80% of the home’s original value and you meet the lender’s requirements. In general, PMI is automatically terminated when your loan balance is scheduled to reach 78% of the home’s original value, as long as your loan is current.
Need help?
If you have questions about PMI or your mortgage options, connect with a mortgage loan officer for personalized guidance.
An NMLS ID is a unique identification number assigned to mortgage loan originators and mortgage lending institutions through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry. It helps identify the person or company handling your mortgage and supports transparency in the mortgage process.
Why it matters
An NMLS ID allows consumers to verify the identity and licensing information of a mortgage professional or lender. It can also help you confirm who you are working with when you review mortgage advertisements, emails, disclosures, and loan documents.
Where you may see it
You may see an NMLS ID on mortgage websites, marketing materials, email signatures, loan paperwork, and other mortgage-related communications. If you want to look up a mortgage professional or lender, you can search the NMLS Consumer Access website.
Need help?
If you have questions about an NMLS ID or want help identifying the mortgage professional working with you, call 844-700-7328 during business hours.
- Copy of your driver’s license or state-issued ID – Verifies your identity and legal name.
- Last 2 years of W-2 forms – Prove your employment history and income stability.
- Most recent 30 days of pay stubs – Shows your current income and allows us to calculate your debt-to-income ratio accurately.
- Last 2 years of Federal Tax Returns (including all schedules) – Confirms your reported income and helps lenders assess your overall financial picture.
- Most recent two months of bank statements (all pages) – Verifies your assets, down payment funds, and that you have enough reserves after closing.
- Contact information for your homeowner’s insurance agent – Required to set up the proper insurance coverage for the property at closing.
- Gather everything before you apply — it can save you weeks of delays.
- Make sure all pages of the bank statements are included.
- Include all W-2s and tax returns, even if you filed jointly.
- Scan or take clear photos of your documents for easy upload.
To check the status of your loan application, contact People Driven Credit Union at 248-263-4100 during business hours or reach out to your assigned loan specialist if you have their contact information. Be ready to verify your identity and share details such as your name, member number, or application number so we can review your application with you.
When you check your status, it is also a good idea to ask whether any additional documents or information are needed to keep your application moving. Review times can vary based on the loan type and the information required, so contacting us directly is the best way to get the most current update on your application.



