USDA home loans in Shasta and Tehama counties
USDA's Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program helps eligible buyers purchase a home as a permanent residence in an eligible rural area. Private lenders make the loans. The home has to be in an eligible area and your income has to fall within USDA's limits, so we check both early.
What USDA says about eligibility
- The property must be a new or existing home used as a permanent residence. It cannot be an income-producing property.
- It must be located in an eligible rural area.
- Applicants must meet income-eligibility requirements.
Check an address and the income limits with USDA's tools on theUSDA program page(checked October 6, 2026). Some addresses around our area may qualify and others won't, so check each home before you make an offer.
CalHFA and USDA together
CalHFA lists a USDA first-mortgage program that can be combined with its MyHome Assistance Program. See CalHFA programs.
Common questions
Is a USDA loan only for farms?
No. USDA's Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program is for homes used as a permanent residence in eligible rural areas. It is not for income-producing properties.
How do I know if a home is in an eligible area?
USDA provides a property eligibility map and tools to check an address and income limits. We check an address before you fall in love with a home that does not qualify.
Are there income limits?
Yes. Applicants must meet income-eligibility requirements, which depend on household size and county. Use USDA's income limit tool or ask a USDA-approved lender.
I'm not a lender. Rates, fees and approval come from your lender.
Last verified: 2026-10-06