USDA Extends Pilot Program to Help Montanans Access Affordable Financing to Build Manufactured Homes in Rural Communities

BOZEMAN, MT, Oct. 24, 2024 – USDA Rural Development in Montana, under the leadership of State Director Kathleen Williams, is pleased to announce the extension of a pilot program aimed at helping rural Montanans access affordable financing to build manufactured homes. This extension supports the Administration’s Housing Supply Action Plan, which is designed to increase housing options in rural areas like those across Montana.

Financing for the pilot program is available through USDA’s Single Family Housing Direct Loans and Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan programs, providing opportunities for rural Montanans to build or purchase affordable, high-quality manufactured homes.

The pilot program, originally launched in 2016 and renewed in 2022, is now extended until May 1, 2025. During this time, USDA will continue to waive certain regulatory requirements, allowing applicants in Montana to use loans to finance not only new, energy-efficient manufactured and modular homes but also existing manufactured homes. Additionally, loans can be used for homes built on leased land, offering more flexibility for Montanans looking to achieve homeownership.

Montana is one of 23 states benefiting from this pilot, and USDA is expected to make these waivers permanent by issuing a final rule in 2025. More information on the program’s extension can be found on page 82484 of the Oct.11, 2024, Federal Register.

For rural Montanans, USDA’s Single Family Housing Direct Loan program offers low- and very-low-income applicants the chance to own safe and affordable homes. Meanwhile, the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan program works with approved lenders to help low- and moderate-income families purchase or build homes in eligible rural areas.

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if any questions, contact your local RD office at https://www.rd.usda.gov/mt/montana-contacts