Why does USDA offer a 90% guarantee to lenders?

The USDA offers a 90% guarantee to lenders primarily to encourage them to provide 100% financing to eligible borrowers. This significant guarantee mitigates the risk that lenders face, enabling them to afford the opportunity to finance the full purchase price of a home without requiring a down payment from the borrower.

By backing a substantial portion of the loan amount, the USDA helps lenders feel more secure in making loans to individuals in rural areas who might not otherwise qualify for traditional financing, due to a lack of down payment or other financial challenges. This 100% financing option is crucial for many low to moderate-income families seeking homeownership for the first time, making it possible for them to access housing in rural communities.

The other options, while related, do not directly correlate with the primary motivation behind the USDA's guarantee. For instance, reducing processing time, offering lower interest rates, and covering closing costs are potential benefits that might arise as a result of the program, but they are not the primary purpose of the 90% guarantee. The core intent is to ensure lenders can confidently extend loans that promote homeownership in underserved areas.