If you’re considering getting a USDA loan, it’s important to do your due diligence and talk to a variety of lenders to make sure you not only understand the process, but also get the best deal on your loan.

But what, exactly, do you need to ask those lenders?

A recent article from realtor.com outlined key questions to ask lenders when inquiring about USDA loans, including:

• Does your company offer USDA loans — and if so, do you underwrite these types of loans regularly? Not all lenders offer USDA loans, so the first question you want to ask any potential lender is if getting a USDA loan through their company is even an option. If it is, you’ll also want to ask about how often they underwrite USDA loans; USDA loans have a specific set of guidelines and procedures, so working with a lender that knows the ins and outs of the process can help to make sure you get the most out of the program.
• What’s the income limit for USDA loans in my area? USDA loans have an income limit which varies based upon location. Make sure to ask your lender for the income limit on your target area so you can confirm that you fall within those limits and can qualify for a loan.
• What terms are you offering? While income limits for USDA loans will stay the same, the terms different lenders offer — including interest rate and loan processing time — can vary. Make sure to ask about each lender’s terms; that way, you can compare and go with the lender with the most competitive offer.