What You Should Know About USDA Home Loans

A USDA loan is a no-down-payment mortgage designed to help homebuyers in qualifying rural and suburban areas achieve homeownership. At Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union, we have been rooted in these communities for nearly 90 years, supporting members as they build, buy, and grow right where they are.

As an approved lender for USDA Guaranteed Loans, TVFCU makes homeownership more accessible across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia. We serve 17 counties throughout the region, many of which include USDA-eligible rural areas. With branches located within or near these communities, you have direct access to local loan officers who understand your area and the housing market.

Why USDA Loans Are Worth Considering

• No down payment for qualified borrowers.
• Competitive rates and lower overall mortgage costs compared to some alternatives.
• Flexible credit guidelines for buyers who may not qualify for conventional loans.
• Designed for rural/suburban affordability, which is a great option for buyers outside major urban centers.

Who Qualifies for a USDA Loan?

USDA loan eligibility is based on location, household income, and household composition. The maximum household income for a USDA Guaranteed Loan in our service areas is $119,850. USDA reviews all sources of income for every adult member of the household, including:

• Monthly base employment income

• Overtime income
• Bonus income
• Commission income
• Self-employment income
• Dividend/interest income
• Net rental income
• Other income received
• Any additional income from adults living in the home

TVFCU Service Areas & USDA-Eligible Locations

Our loan officers can help determine if a property and your household qualify for a USDA Guaranteed Loan. Here’s a breakdown of our service areas:

Tennessee

• Athens, McMinn County – Jennifer Cheatham
• South Cleveland, Bradley County – Jennifer Cheatham
• Dayton, Rhea County – Tina Peters
• Etowah, McMinn County – Jennifer Cheatham
• Kimball, Marion County – Linda Wright
• Ocoee, Polk County – Jennifer Cheatham
• Ooltewah (limited areas), Hamilton County – Wendee Gibson
• Soddy Daisy, Hamilton County – Tina Peters

Georgia

• Chatsworth, Murray County – Mary Penagos
• Chickamauga, Walker County – Mary Penagos
• Ringgold, Catoosa County – Melanie Carter
• Trenton, Dade County – Melanie Carter

All income limits reflect the maximum adjusted household income for a USDA Guaranteed Loan: $119,850.

Explore USDA Loan Options with TVFCU

Whether you’re buying your first home or looking for a quieter place to settle down, TVFCU is here to help. Our team can guide you through eligibility, property requirements, and the next steps to homeownership, making the process straightforward and approachable.

Important Note about Eligibility

The USDA Direct Loan Program’s self-assessment tool evaluates several factors — not just income. Results may vary based on:

• Household size and composition
• Monthly debts
• Exact property location
• Estimated property taxes
• Estimated hazard insurance

For the most accurate information, always refer to the USDA self-assessment tool or visit the USDA Rural Development website. All information is accurate as of January 2026. For more resources, visit USDA Rural Development at USDA.gov.