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How to Buy a USDA Home or Farm

How USDA Rural Development and Farm Service Agency sell homes, apartment complexes and farms they own, who can buy, and how REO listings differ from foreclosure sales.

What USDA sells

USDA Rural Development sells single-family homes and multifamily housing it acquired through its rural housing loan programs. The Farm Service Agency sells farms and ranches it acquired through farm loans. All are listed on USDA's official resales site.

Listings are either REO properties that USDA owns and sells through agents or brokers, or foreclosure sales that are auctioned on a set date.

How to buy

  1. 1Search the USDA resales site by state and property type and open the details for price, sale type and contacts.
  2. 2For REO homes, work with a real estate agent or broker to submit an offer.
  3. 3For foreclosure sales, follow the sale notice for the date, place, deposit and payment terms.
  4. 4For farm property, beginning farmers and ranchers may get priority for some FSA sales. Contact the FSA office handling the sale.

Frequently asked questions

Can anyone buy a USDA home?
Yes. USDA homes for sale are open to the public, and some can be bought with USDA Rural Development financing if the buyer qualifies.
Are USDA homes sold as is?
Yes. Properties are sold as is, and buyers are responsible for inspections and repairs.

This guide explains general rules and is not legal or financial advice. Sale terms are set by each agency and county, so read the official terms before you bid.