Have a question that you can't seem to find the answer to? Check out some frequently asked questions and their answers below. If you still can't find an answer to your question, click here to contact us!
- 1. Who is eligible to borrow from Farm Credit of Central Florida?
Our mission is to serve farmers and agribusinesses, but also those who appreciate living in rural areas. No background or tie to agriculture is required if you are wanting to finance your land or home purchase with Farm Credit of Central Florida.
However it is recommended to speak with a loan officer about your particular situation. They will be able to tell you if your request is eligible.
- 2. Do you offer loans for land only? Is there minimum acreage?
Yes, we do offer loans for land only and have no minimum acreage requirement. Farm Credit finances Farms, Homes and Land. However, if the land is not for farm/production purposes it must meet our rural zoning requirement to be eligible for financing through Farm Credit of Central Florida. Please refer to the USDA site to check if your zip code is zoned rural.
Here are additional resources to help you get started:
How do land loans work in Florida?
How many acres are needed to get a farm loan
- 3. What counties does Farm Credit of Central Florida serve?
Farm Credit of Central Florida proudly serves agricultural and rural communities in Brevard, Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Seminole, Sumter, and Volusia counties.
- 4. How do I apply for a land loan?
You can apply by following this link. Ready to apply for a loan
- 5. Do you offer construction to permanent home loans?
Yes, we do offer construction to permanent home loans. Our construction to perm loans offer fixed rates and up to 30 years after completed construction. No additional costs or fees. At Farm Credit of Central Florida, we know the ins and outs of building your dream home. Please reach out to one of our loan officers or visit one of our branch locations for more information.
- 6. Can I make my loan payment online?
Yes! Log in to Digital Banking to make your payment online. Digital Banking is available 24/7 and along with making payments you can view your account information. If you have a line of credit, you can also request disbursements through Digital Banking. Farm Credit provides this free service to make accessing your account simple and convenient.
- 7. Does Farm Credit of Central Florida offer loans for Barndominiums?
Yes, we offer financing for Barndominiums. However, the requirements are slightly different from a regular home loan. Please speak with a loan officer about your plans.
Check out this valuable Barndo Blog: https://farmcreditcfl.com/resources/article/barndominium-home-basics
- 8. Are hobby farmers eligible to apply for a loan?
Yes! At Farm Credit of Central Florida we work with borrowers of all levels of experience and size of operation to help make their rural lifestyle dream become a reality.
- 9. Can beginning farmers get financing through Farm Credit of Central Florida?
Farm Credit is committed to the future of agriculture. Therefore, we are very responsive to the needs of young, beginning and small (YBS) farmers and have a dedicated program for them. Our YBS program provides alternate financing for those who may not qualify under normal lending requirements. Check our YBS page for more information on eligibility. Please reach out to a loan officer at your local branch for more information.
- 10. Does Farm Credit of Central Florida offer equipment financing?
Yes! We can help you finance new or used equipment, as well as title equipment for your operation. If you are heading to the dealership, ask for Farm Credit Express or visit www.farmcreditexpress.com page for more information.
- 11. Does Farm Credit of Central Florida offer crop insurance?
Yes! We can help you tailor a policy to fit your own specific needs.
Visit our crop insurance page for more information
- 12. What is your down payment requirement?
For agriculture real estate purchases, 20% down is the typical requirement. For lot loans, Farm Credit of Central Florida can lend up to 75% of the purchase price or the appraised value, whichever is less.
- 13. How is Farm Credit of Central Florida different than a traditional bank?
Farm Credit of Central Florida is a member‑owned cooperative, which allows us to return patronage to our borrowers. A patronage refund is a way of distributing the association’s net income to its stockholding members. A member's refund is based on the proportion of interest earned on his or her loan to the total interest earned by the association. A patronage refund may be paid in cash, allocated surplus, stock, or any combination of these items.
Check out the Benefits of Membership for more information.
- 14. What is the current rate?
Interest rates vary depending on what is happening in the marketplace, credit risk and the financing options you choose, such as term or Amortization. Call our office for a rate quote!
- 15. What kind of loans does Farm Credit of Central Florida make?
Farm Credit of Central Florida provides specialized financing for agricultural operations and rural living, including loans for farms, rural land, homes, and equipment. We offer operating loans, farm real estate loans, construction financing, and leasing options to support both farmers and rural property owners.
- 16. Can I qualify for an ag loan if my farm income is seasonal?
Yes. Farm Credit of Central Florida understands that agricultural income is often seasonal and variable. Loans are structured to account for cash‑flow fluctuations, including options such as operating lines of credit that allow repayment when income is received. Flexible financing options are also available for small, part‑time, and beginning farming operations, helping borrowers manage seasonal income while planning for long‑term success.
- 17. How long does it typically take to get approved for a Farm Credit loan?
Loan approval timelines at Farm Credit of Central Florida vary based on the type and complexity of the loan. Larger agricultural or land loans typically take 5-10 business days after a complete application is submitted, while smaller or more specialized loans may receive decisions in as little as 24 hours to a few days. Pre‑approval is often available within 1–2 business days.
- 18. What collateral does Farm Credit of Central Florida require?
Farm Credit of Central Florida typically requires collateral for operating and real estate loans, which may include crops, equipment, inventory, and land. For lot loans, a minimum 25% down payment is required. Collateral is inspected for value, and specific requirements vary based on the loan purpose.
- 19. How much can I borrow with a Farm Credit loan?
- Farm Credit of Central Florida loan amounts are customized to each borrower’s needs and vary based on the purpose of the loan. While the average loan amount is approximately $1 million, there is no set maximum loan size.