A New Way to See USDA Loans in Appleton, WI

If you think USDA/Rural Development loans are only for farmers, think again!

Most rural areas, small towns, and even suburban communities contain many homes that are eligible for USDA loans. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides affordable homeownership opportunities in order to help rural areas thrive. If you are looking to buy a home just outside the immediate city center, USDA loans, which are available for qualified homebuyers, are now more affordable than ever.

Powerful USDA Program Details

A USDA loan is a government-insured loan subject to certain qualifications and restrictions, designed to make homeownership highly accessible. It offers several major advantages over traditional financing:

  • Zero Money Down: This program features a no down payment option.

  • Great Rates: Borrowers can often secure better terms than an FHA or conventional loan.

  • Flexible Credit: We offer financing with a FICO as low as 580.

How Do I Know if I Qualify?

Because this program targets specific areas and demographics, there are a few unique qualifications you must meet to secure this financing:

  • Location Requirements: The property must be in a location defined as a rural area by the USDA. Tip: Visit eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov and select Single Family Housing Guaranteed to do a quick and easy map search for eligible properties.

  • Income Limits: The homebuyer must meet the income restrictions. Maximum income limits vary by county – ask for details.

  • Occupancy: The property must be utilized as your primary residence only.

Local Expertise You Can Trust

Navigating USDA eligibility maps and county-specific income limits requires a local expert. A Mortgage Loan Originator will provide you with additional information to help you determine if you qualify.

Call to learn more!

Contact The Jeff Anklam Team Today:

  • Branch Manager: Jeffrey Anklam (NMLS #279966)

  • Phone: 920.750.5001 or 920.362.0159

  • Email: JAnklam@WaterstoneMortgage.com

  • Website: WMCFoxValley.com

  • Office Location: Waterstone Mortgage, 119 N. McCarthy Rd. Suite F, Appleton WI 54913


Disclaimer: A USDA loan is a government-insured loan subject to certain qualifications and restrictions. A Mortgage Loan Originator will provide you with additional information to help you determine if you qualify. USDA loans are subject to an up-front guarantee fee, which may be financed into the loan amount; as well as an annual fee which is included in your monthly payment. Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Licensee Exempt. Waterstone Mortgage Corporation (NMLS #186434) is a wholly owned subsidiary of WaterStone Bank SSB (NASDAQ: WSBF). All loan requests are subject to credit approval as well as specific program requirements and guidelines. For some programs, income and property restrictions may apply. Information is subject to change without notice. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend.

First-Time Homebuyer Grants

Choosing the right loan program is crucial to achieving your homeownership dreams. We offer a variety of first-time homebuyer loans in [state].

Conventional Mortgage Loans

Conventional loans are mortgage loans offered by non-government sponsored lenders.

These loan types include:

  • Fixed Rate Loans
  • Adjustable Rate Loans (ARMs)
  • Jumbo / Construction Loans
  • Reverse Mortgage

FHA Loans

FHA mortgage loans are issued by federally qualified lenders certified by the U.S. Federal Housing Authority, a division of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. FHA loans are an attractive option, especially for first-time homeowners.

FHA Loans:

  • Generally easier to qualify for than conventional loans.
  • Lower down payment requirements.
  • Cannot exceed statutory loan limits.

WHEDA/ First Time Buyer

WHEDA (Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority) offers first-time homebuyer loan programs with competitive rates, down payment assistance, and flexible qualifying guidelines for eligible Wisconsin buyers. Income and purchase price limits apply. Contact us to learn if you qualify.

Reverse Mortgage

A Reverse Mortgage (HECM) allows eligible homeowners age 62 or older to convert home equity into accessible funds, with no required monthly mortgage payments. Repayment is deferred until the home is sold or the borrower moves or passes away. FHA-insured. HUD counseling required

USDA Loans

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a variety of programs to help low to moderate-income individuals living in small towns or rural areas achieve homeownership. The Rural Housing Service (RHS) helps qualifying applicants, who cannot receive credit from other sources, purchase modestly priced homes as their primary residence.

USDA Loans are an attractive option because:

  • Minimal closing cost
  • Low or no down payment

USDA loans can be used toward the purchase and renovation of a previously owned home or a new construction. Families must be able to pay their monthly mortgage, homeowner’s insurance and property taxes.

VA Mortgage Loans

Designed to offer long-term financing to American veterans, VA mortgage loans are issued by federally qualified lenders and are guaranteed by the U.S. Veterans Administration. The VA determines eligibility and issues a certificate to qualifying applicants to submit to their mortgage lender of choice. It is generally easier to qualify for a VA loan than conventional loans.

Here’s how it works:

  • 100% financing without private mortgage insurance or 20% second mortgage.
  • A VA funding fee of 0 to 2.15% for first time use or 0-3.3% for subsequent use (this fee may be financed) of the loan amount is paid to the VA.
  • When purchasing a home, veterans may borrow up to 100% of the sales price or reasonable value of the home, whichever is less.
  • When refinancing a home, veterans may borrow up to 100% of reasonable value in order to refinance where state law allows.

Estimate Your Monthly Payments

Understanding your potential mortgage payments is a crucial step in the home-buying process. Our easy-to-use Mortgage Calculator helps you estimate your monthly payments, so you can plan your finances with confidence. Simply enter your loan details and let our calculator do the rest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Is Appleton eligible for USDA loans?

    • A: Most of the city of Appleton is considered “urban” and is ineligible. However, nearby areas like Greenville, Freedom, and Wrightstown are often eligible for USDA 0% down financing. Check our eligibility map for specific addresses.

  • Q: What is the maximum income for a USDA loan in Outagamie County?

    • A: For a household of 1-4 people, the 2025 income limit is approximately $119,850. Larger households (5-8 people) can earn up to $158,250.

Waterstone Mortgage Corporation – Appleton Branch 119 North McCarthy Road, Suite F, Appleton, WI 54913

Proudly serving homebuyers in Appleton, Green Bay, the Fox Valley, and throughout Wisconsin (Outagamie & Brown Counties).

Core Local Programs: VA Home Loans | WHEDA & First-Time Buyer Grants | FHA | Conventional | USDA financing.Licensing & Compliance: All loan requests are subject to credit approval as well as specific program requirements and guidelines. For some programs, income and property restrictions may apply. Information is subject to change without notice.
Corporate NMLS ID #186434
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Waterstone Mortgage Corporation (NMLS #186434) is a wholly owned subsidiary of WaterStone Bank SSB (NASDQ: WSBF). © 2026 Waterstone Mortgage Corporation. All rights reserved.© 2026 Waterstone Mortgage Corporation. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy