USDA and FHA Pro and Con in Ames, Story County, IA

In 2026, the USDA loan ceiling for Ames, within the bounds of Story county, IA, is $336,500. Comparatively, the FHA cap for a single-family home is $472,030.

Utilize the Lendersa® USDA loan calculator to assess today’s leading USDA and FHA rates, establishing the income, credit score, reserves, and documentation required for qualification. Our sophisticated mortgage calculator offers a side-by-side view of USDA, FHA, Conforming, and VA loans, aiding your decision on the optimal program for your financial needs in .

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2026 Loan Ceilings and Down Payment Essentials in Ames, Story County, IA

Loan Type Loan Ceiling Initial Payment
USDA $336,500 0%
FHA $472,030 3.5%
Conventional Conforming $726,200 3%

Exploring USDA and FHA Loan Paths in Ames, IA

The objective of Lendersa® is to help you secure the most suitable USDA or FHA loan swiftly and with ease. Choose from three initial approaches that align you with lenders and USDA loan options.

Match outcomes from Lendersa USDA loan requests

Understanding USDA Loans in IA

A USDA home loan, guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is frequently referred to as a USDA rural development mortgage and is exclusively available in rural locations. Unlike FHA loans requiring at least a 3.5% down payment, a USDA mortgage needs no down payment.

Enter your location to find out if it qualifies for USDA rural housing loan?



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