Strom Center Blog

Crystalizing Both Method and Products – European Rural Development

A curious feature of European rural development initiatives stresses the importance not only of profit and physical gains but also the preservation on traditional ways and means. Throughout European history, rural development almost always means agricultural development. Amidst the high level of industrialization of many of the members of the European Union (EU), the importance of rural development occupy still one of the community’s top priorities. The considerably large size of population that resides in rural areas constitutes an object of concern for policy makers alongside with the question of food security and increased agricultural production.

Eileen Wang in her article explored the recent features and concerns in European rural development initiatives and provided a broad picture of recent developments. The significance of agriculture in EU has nevertheless manifested by the provision of the Community Agricultural Policy (CAP) which consumes a relatively large amount of EU budget allocation.

Agricultural states benefit on this policy in terms of financial assistance and both domestic and international aids from EU as a whole. Because of its significance furthermore, the CAP issue has been object of debates and controversy.

According to Wang, the CAP is instrumental in the evolution of rural development in Europe. Its provisions not only stress the importance of production but also the quality of life of farmers. Recently, an additional provision, the Second Pillar of the CAP was introduced in order to further enhance the utility of the CAP. This Second Pillar highlights the importance of food security, environmental concerns, and the preservation of traditions and culture of agricultural areas.

The main topic addressed by this Second Pillar pertains to the Rural Development Regulation (RDR). Such regulation provides opportunities for nations with agricultural sectors to choose from menus of devices, programs and mechanisms in their own contexts, in order to meet national agricultural and rural development priorities. This idea of a bottom-up approach is a reaction to the perceived ineffectiveness of a government-driven top-down approach considering the diversity of European states. A mandate at the Community level is seen to be inapplicable confronted with variations in the state level of EU members.

The introduction of alternative enterprises in the rural areas is yet another development says Wang. Provisions on Alternative Farm Enterprises (AFEs) contribute largely to the continuation of the farming tradition because farmers now can have additional sources of income. Interestingly enough, the idea of agri-tourism has already been exploited in Italy in their program entitled “agro-torismo.” Among others, EU has also established a non-elected local agency in states to aid agricultural programs and increase the level of awareness among farmers.

Despite these developments however, major issues still hinder the total efficiency of rural development initiatives. The preservation of tradition and culture, although remains a top priority, is still threatened by the effects of globalization. Issues related to repopulation of rural areas, loss of community identity and the rising prices of properties also adds to the loads of disadvantages that come along rural development configurations.

Florida USDA Rural Development Loan – Helping Borrowers Find Affordable Housing

The Florida USDA Rural Development home loan program allows home buyers the chance for affordable housing. What’s more – this program allows for true 100 percent home loan financing. Though the program is focused on rural areas, many eligible areas actually feel more urban or metro.

This is especially true for areas of Central Florida, as the housing boom stopped here last, leaving many new homes vacant in areas that have not yet been annexed by cities or municipalities.

Could a Florida USDA Rural Development Home Loan Be For You?

Let’s take a look at some of the basics of this great program:

Qualified home buyers receive 100% Financing
Unlike many traditional home loan programs, this program has no cash reserve requirements
You are allowed to receive up to as much as 6% of the agreed upon purchase price from the seller to help cover any remaining closing costs
There are no FICO credit score limitations – though reasonably steady payment history on your bills is advisable
The USDA Sets no limits on the price of the home, as long as your income fits within the allowed limits and you can still afford to make your loan payments
All buyers are allowed to apply – not just first timers! (Income and geographic limitations must be met)
These loans come with very competitive interest rates – no artificially high mortgage rates just because you’re using a special program!
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) is Not Required – Meaning you don’t have to pay the lender an insurance fee to hedge against you defaulting on your loan – The USDA Backs them up instead!

This program is one of the very few remaining true 100 percent home loan financing option out there.

If you feel you might qualify, you should really take a look into it. Here are some of the main stipulations you’ll need to meet if you wish to qualify for the Florida USDA Home Loan program:
Borrowers must be US citizens or a legal permanent residents
Your chosen home must be in an eligible rural area
The home you buy can only be used for residential purposes – no business use
Your targeted mortgage payment should be no more than 29% of your gross monthly income
You should have reasonably good credit – or zero credit history
The income your family earns per year can be no more than 115% of the US median income
You cannot already be a home owner. You must be purchasing this home as your primary and only residence.
Other eligibility rules factor in as well. However, if you meet the above stipulations, there’s a good chance you will qualify for a Florida USDA Rural Development Loan