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DSCR loans for rental properties

Qualify based on the propertyโ€™s cash flowโ€”not your personal income. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are designed for investors buying or refinancing 1โ€“4 unit rentals and small portfolios.

Exterior of a modern residential rental property at dusk
How it works

What DSCR means

Simple ratio

DSCR compares monthly rental income to the monthly housing payment (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA when applicable).

Cash flow focus

Many programs emphasize the propertyโ€™s ability to cover the payment, which can help investors with complex income or multiple properties.

Flexible documentation

Often less paperwork than traditional loansโ€”documentation varies by lender and scenario.

Investor reviewing documents and cash flow numbers
Use cases

When DSCR loans fit

DSCR financing can be a strong option for investors who want to scale while keeping the process straightforward.

Purchase a rental

Buy a 1โ€“4 unit investment property using projected or current rents (program rules vary).


Refinance a rental

Rate/term refinance or cash-out options may be available to reposition your portfolio (guidelines vary).


Self-employed or variable income

If your personal income is hard to document, DSCR may help shift the focus to the property.


Multiple properties

For investors building a portfolio, DSCR programs can reduce friction compared to traditional underwriting.

Every lender is different, but these are common DSCR loan factors weโ€™ll review with you.

DSCR ratio

The propertyโ€™s rent-to-payment coverageโ€”requirements vary by program and property type.

Credit & reserves

Credit profile and available reserves to support the investment.

Down payment / equity

Loan-to-value limits depend on occupancy, property type, and DSCR strength.

Rent documentation

Lease agreements and/or market rent estimates (such as an appraisal rent schedule) may be used.

FAQ

DSCR loan questions

Answers vary by lender and property type. Weโ€™ll help you compare options across 100+ lending partners.

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