What is a DSCR loan and how does it work?+
A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan is a business-purpose investment property loan that qualifies you based on the property's cash flow rather than your personal income. Lenders divide the property's gross monthly rent by its total monthly debt payment (PITIA: principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA fees). If the resulting ratio meets the program minimum, the deal can qualify without traditional income documentation.
Who qualifies for a DSCR loan?+
Real estate investors, LLCs, partnerships, and corporations who own or are purchasing non-owner-occupied rental properties typically qualify. Borrowers are qualified on the property's projected or actual rental income, not personal pay stubs or W-2s. Personal credit, liquid reserves, and property type also factor into approval.
Do DSCR loans require tax returns or personal income verification?+
No. DSCR loans are underwritten as business-purpose loans on investment properties, so personal tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs are generally not required. The loan approval focuses on the property's ability to generate rental income and the borrower's overall credit and assets.
What is the minimum DSCR required?+
Minimum DSCR requirements vary by program and can start as low as 0.75 in some cases, though most programs prefer a DSCR of 1.0 or higher. A higher DSCR often means stronger loan terms and better pricing. We can review your specific scenario and recommend the right program.
Can I close a DSCR loan in an LLC or business entity?+
Yes. LLC, LP, S-Corporation, C-Corporation, and Series LLC vesting are all standard on eligible programs at no additional rate premium. Closing in a business entity helps protect personal assets and is a common structure for real estate investors.
What types of properties can be financed with a DSCR loan?+
Eligible properties include 1–8 unit residential rentals, single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes, multi-unit buildings, and select portfolio properties. Short-term rentals and Airbnb properties may also qualify under specific investor programs. Commercial and owner-occupied properties are not eligible.
What is the maximum DSCR loan amount and LTV?+
Loan amounts typically range from $100,000 up to $5,000,000, with higher amounts available on portfolio and jumbo DSCR programs. Maximum LTV varies by program and can go up to 80% on purchase and refinance transactions, with lower LTVs for cash-out refinances.
How is the DSCR calculated on a rental property?+
DSCR is calculated by dividing the property's gross monthly rent by the total monthly housing payment. The payment includes principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA dues (PITIA). For example, if a property rents for $2,000 per month and the PITIA is $1,600, the DSCR is 1.25.
How long does it take to close a DSCR loan?+
Most DSCR loans close in 15–21 business days from a complete application. The biggest variable is typically the appraisal and property inspection timeline. Rush closings may be possible in select scenarios when all documentation is submitted quickly.
In which states are DSCR loans available?+
Simply Approved Mortgages is licensed in Florida and Colorado and offers DSCR and business-purpose investor loans as LLC business-purpose transactions in additional states where permitted by law. Contact us to confirm availability for your specific property state.
Can I use a DSCR loan to refinance an investment property?+
Yes. DSCR loans can be used for rate-and-term refinances and cash-out refinances on existing investment properties. Cash-out proceeds can be used to acquire new properties, fund renovations, or reinvest in your portfolio.
Are DSCR loans available for foreign national investors?+
Yes. Foreign National investor loans are available to non-U.S. citizens and permanent residents who want to invest in U.S. rental real estate. These programs use the property's rental income for qualification and do not require U.S. tax returns or traditional U.S. credit reports.
What loan terms and interest rates are available?+
DSCR loans are available as 30-year fixed, adjustable-rate (ARM), and interest-only options. Rates depend on credit profile, DSCR, LTV, property type, and loan program. Interest-only options can improve cash flow during the early years of ownership.
Can a DSCR loan be used for a short-term rental or Airbnb property?+
Yes. Airbnb and short-term rental properties may qualify under dedicated investor programs. Qualifying income may be based on short-term rental history, market rents, or projected income depending on the program and property experience.
How do I apply for a DSCR loan with Simply Approved Mortgages?+
Start by completing our online application or contacting our lending team. We will review the property address, purchase price or estimated value, monthly rental income, and borrowing entity. Once we have the basics, we can price the deal and deliver an initial scenario review (formal pricing after underwriting), often the same business day.