Do USDA Loans in Florida Allow Homes with a Mother-in-Law Suite?

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Do USDA Loans in Florida Allow Homes with a Mother-in-Law Suite?

Do Florida USDA Loans Allow Mother-in-Law Suites? What Realtors & Homebuyers Should Know.

As we continue with our series on USDA property eligibility, USDA properties with “mother-in-law suites”, also know as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), are eligible for a USDA loan if they meet the right criteria.

With affordability top of mind, multigenerational living is on the rise across Florida, and that’s why we often get asked if a USDA loan can be used to buy a home that has a mother-in-law suite or accessory dwelling unit (ADU)?

In this video, we break down the details on how a USDA loan can be used to purchase a home with an ADU in Florida.

But first, don’t forget to download our free USDA Blueprint for Success, a step-by-step guide for homebuyers and Realtors that will walk you through the USDA loan process from initial qualification through closing.



USDA Loan Mother-In-Law Suite Guidelines in Florida

A USDA eligible property must be predominantly residential in use, character, and appearance. Properties (or buildings) primarily used for income-producing purposes aren’t eligible.

USDA recognizes that a single family residence with a mother-in-law suite with can be consistent with single-family housing. especially for multigenerational households, as long as is not designed or set up as an income-producing rental.

Specifically, the guidelines state:

“An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) refers to a habitable living unit, within, or detached from a single family dwelling, which together constitute a single interest in real estate. The presence of a single ADU does not automatically render the property ineligible."

“The appraiser will determine if the ADU represents a second single family housing dwelling unit. The appraiser must document the highest and best use considering all property characteristics, including the status of the utilities if they are separate, when making this determination. The appraiser will include their evaluation in the site analysis and highest and best use section of the appraisal report, as applicable.”

"ADU’s which function in support of the household members, such as multigenerational households are consistent with SFH, however those designed to create a potential rental income stream are not.”

When Does an ADU Work for USDA in Florida?

Use this practical checklist before writing the offer:

✅ Typically OK (supports household members)
• One ADU (attached or detached) that, together with the main home, is a single real-estate interest
• No separate utility meters and no separate mailing address
• Layout and features consistent with household support (multigenerational living), not tenant rental
• Comply with local zoning/building codes

🚫 Red Flags (may trigger ineligibility)
• Space designed to generate rental income (e.g., obvious multi-family or tenant-ready)
• Separate meters/address indicating independent income unit
• Outbuildings or improvements principally used for income-producing purposes

If the listing mentions “rental income” or “house hack,” that’s often a sign the ADU is set up as a separate rental, which can derail USDA eligibility.

Why Work with the #1 Ranked USDA Lender in Florida

Working with a USDA-approved lender who understands both guidelines and appraisals can make all the difference in ensuring your loan closes smoothly.

At Metroplex Mortgage Services, we’ve been helping homebuyers since 2001, and as Florida’s #1 Ranked USDA Lender, our team specializes in USDA loans and guiding you through the entire process from qualification to closing.

Here’s why so many homebuyers and Realtors trust Metroplex:

🏆 #1 Ranked USDA Lender in Florida for 2017, 2023, 2024, and 2025

💼 Over 24 years of experience helping rural homebuyers navigate the mortgage approval process

🧭 Recognized government lending experts in USDA, VA, and FHA loan programs

🔍 Specialized knowledge of USDA Single Family, Modular, Manufactured Home and Land financing

🤝 Dedicated support team that helps Realtors and buyers structure deals for USDA eligibility

🏡 Personalized guidance from application through closing with a focus on long-term success

Let’s Connect:

Email: [email protected]
Call/Text: (863) 593-2001
Office: (800) 806-9836 Ext. 280

As always, make it a great day, and I look forward to seeing you right here for next week’s USDA Video Tip!

P.S. Don't forget to download our USDA Blueprint for Success!

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