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    Buying a New Construction Home in Severance, CO with 0 Down, USDA vs CHFA Loans Explained for Buyers

    Mark Leavitt
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    Buying a New Construction Home in Severance, CO with 0 Down, USDA vs CHFA Loans Explained for Buyers

    Exploring New Construction Homes in Severance, Colorado

    If you’re exploring new construction homes in Severance, Colorado, you may be surprised to learn that some buyers are moving into brand-new homes with zero money down.

    This isn’t a loophole. It’s a government-backed mortgage program designed specifically for rural and small-town communities — and Severance qualifies.

    Builders like LGI Homes are actively using this program right now to help buyers purchase new homes with 0% down, often making it a stronger option than traditional low-down-payment programs like CHFA.

    Let’s break it all down in plain English.


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    What Is the USDA Loan and Why Does Severance Qualify?

    The USDA Rural Development Loan was created to encourage homeownership in rural and small-town areas — even those close to fast-growing cities.

    Despite Weld County’s growth, Severance still meets USDA eligibility requirements, which means buyers can:

    • Buy with 0% down
    • Secure competitive interest rates
    • Pay lower mortgage insurance than FHA
    • Use the loan for brand-new construction

    That last point is huge — and it’s exactly why new-build buyers should be paying attention right now.


    How Builders Are Using USDA Loans in Severance

    Builders like LGI Homes structure many of their Severance offerings to work seamlessly with USDA financing.

    The benefit for buyers is simple:

    • Less cash needed upfront
    • Easier entry into homeownership
    • Predictable monthly payments
    • A brand-new home instead of settling for resale

    For many buyers, USDA is what turns “someday” into “now.”


    USDA vs CHFA Loans: Side-by-Side Comparison

    Here’s where things really start to click.

    Down Payment

    • USDA: 0% down
    • CHFA: Typically 3% down

    Location Limits

    • USDA: Must be USDA-eligible (Severance qualifies)
    • CHFA: Statewide in Colorado

    Income Limits

    • USDA: Yes (often higher than expected)
    • CHFA: Yes

    Mortgage Insurance

    • USDA: Lower monthly cost
    • CHFA: Higher monthly cost

    Best For

    • USDA: New builds in small towns
    • CHFA: Buyers needing flexibility on location

    Cash Needed Upfront

    • USDA: Minimal
    • CHFA: Moderate

    Builder Friendly

    • USDA: Very (especially LGI Homes)
    • CHFA: Varies

    The Big Buyer Takeaway

    If you’re buying new construction in Severance, USDA is often the lowest cash-to-close option available — and in many cases, it’s more affordable month-to-month than CHFA.


    Which Loan Is Better for You?

    USDA loans tend to work best if you:

    • Want little to no money out of pocket
    • Are buying in Severance or nearby qualifying towns
    • Are open to new construction
    • Want to keep your monthly payment as low as possible

    CHFA can still be a great option — especially for buyers purchasing outside USDA zones — but in Severance specifically, USDA often wins the comparison.


    A Local Perspective

    Severance is in a unique position right now. Buyers get:

    • Small-town eligibility
    • Modern new-build communities
    • Access to financing options many people don’t realize exist

    The biggest mistake buyers make is assuming 0% down means compromise.

    In Severance, it often means more house, less stress, and a smarter path to ownership.


    Ready to See What You Qualify For?

    Every buyer’s situation is different — income, household size, and goals all matter.

    If you’re curious whether USDA or CHFA makes the most sense for you — or which Severance communities qualify right now — I’m happy to walk you through your options.

    No pressure.
    No sales pitch.
    Just clear answers.

    Mark Leavitt

    Mark Leavitt

    Northern Colorado Real Estate Broker

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