π DSCR Loans vs. Traditional Investment Mortgages
π 5 Ways to Scale Your Portfolio Faster With DSCR Loans
No tax returns. No W-2s. Just smart real estate strategy.
The appeal of DSCR loans is simple:
You qualify based on the income from the property, not your job or personal finances.
But even though DSCR loans are more flexible than traditional financing, theyβre not a free-for-all β and a little prep goes a long way.
π Hereβs what you really need to qualify for a DSCR loan, how the process works, and how to make your next deal an easy yes.
π§ What Lenders Look For in a DSCR Loan
To qualify, lenders want to know three key things:
1. π Does the Property Cash Flow?
- A DSCR of 1.00 or higher is ideal
- Some allow DSCR as low as 0.75 with compensating factors
- Appraisers will use:
- Current lease income
- Market rent estimate
- (Or) short-term rental projection if STR-eligible
We help you calculate this before you apply β so there are no surprises.
2. π³ Is Your Credit Score Strong Enough?
Most lenders require:
- Minimum score of 620β640
- 680+ for best rates and terms
- No recent bankruptcies or major delinquencies
Even though income isnβt used, lenders still want to see youβre responsible with credit.
3. π° Do You Have Enough for Down Payment + Reserves?
DSCR loans require:
- 20β25% down payment (some allow 15% at higher rates)
- 3β6 months of reserves (liquid assets or retirement funds)
- Closing costs (usually 2β5% of purchase price)
Pro tip: Ask us about using gift funds or cross-collateralizing equity from another property.
π Required Documents (Itβs Way Less Than You Think)
Youβll typically need:
- ID and credit authorization
- Lease agreement or estimated rent (from appraisal)
- Proof of down payment and reserves
- Appraisal and title
β No W-2s
β No pay stubs
β No tax returns or DTI calculations
DSCR is cash-flow lending β plain and simple.
π§Ύ Tips to Improve Your DSCR Approval
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Buy in strong rental markets (higher rent = better ratio)
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Increase down payment to lower monthly PITI
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Choose 30-year fixed or interest-only options for lowest payment
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Use an LLC or personal name β weβll help you structure it
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Price properties smart β avoid overpaying just to compete
Weβll help you run DSCR scenarios before you make an offer so you know exactly where you stand.
π’ Why PRMI?
PRMI is a direct lender that:
- Offers flexible DSCR programs
- Works with short-term and long-term rentals
- Helps first-time and seasoned investors get approved
- Underwrites and closes in-house β fast, clear, reliable
Whether you’re building your first door or scaling your 20th, weβll help you qualify with confidence.
π Want to See If You Qualify for a DSCR Loan?
Letβs run your numbers, review the property, and create a funding strategy around your goals.