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Qualification Guide

DSCR Loan Requirements

Simple qualification criteria focused on property cash flow, not your personal income

Essential Criteria

What You Need to Qualify

DSCR loans have straightforward requirements focused on the property's ability to generate income

DSCR Ratio

1.0 or Higher

Property rental income must equal or exceed the mortgage payment (PITIA)

Ratios of 1.25+ get better rates. Some lenders accept 0.75 with larger down payments.

Credit Score

620-640 Minimum

Most lenders require at least 620-640 credit score for approval

Scores above 700 qualify for better rates and terms. Some portfolio lenders accept 600+.

Down Payment

15-25% Required

Varies based on credit score, DSCR ratio, and property type

Strong properties with high DSCR may qualify for lower down payments.

Property Type

Investment Only

Must be an investment property, not a primary residence

Includes single-family, 2-4 units, condos, and some short-term rentals.

No Income Verification

Not Required

No tax returns, W2s, pay stubs, or employment verification needed

Perfect for self-employed investors or those with complex income situations.

Cash Reserves

6-12 Months

Reserves to cover mortgage payments in case of vacancy

Amount varies by lender and number of properties owned.

Complete Breakdown

Detailed Requirements Breakdown

RequirementStandardPreferredNotes
DSCR Ratio1.0+1.25+Higher ratios qualify for better rates
Credit Score620-640700+Impacts rate and down payment
Down Payment20-25%25-30%Varies by property and credit
Cash Reserves6 months12 monthsPer property owned
Property ConditionGood/RentableExcellentMust pass appraisal
Loan Amount$75K - $3M$150K - $2MVaries by lender
Property TypeInvestmentSingle-familyNo primary residences
Income DocsNoneNoneNo tax returns or W2s
Credit Score Impact

How Your Credit Score Affects Terms

Credit Score

620-679

Good
Est. Rate7.5% - 8.5%
Down Payment25-30%
Credit Score

680-739

Very Good
Est. Rate7.0% - 7.5%
Down Payment20-25%
Credit Score

740+

Excellent
Est. Rate6.5% - 7.0%
Down Payment15-20%
Not Required

What You Don't Need

DSCR loans eliminate many traditional mortgage requirements

Tax Returns
W2 Forms
Pay Stubs
Employment Verification
DTI Calculations
Bank Statements
Personal Income Proof
Profit & Loss Statements
Frequently Asked Questions

DSCR Loan Requirements FAQs

Common questions about DSCR loan eligibility and qualifications

What are the basic DSCR loan requirements?
Basic DSCR loan requirements include: minimum credit score of 620-640, DSCR ratio of 1.0 or higher, down payment of 15-25%, investment property (not primary residence), property in good condition, and 6-12 months of reserves. Unlike traditional mortgages, DSCR loans do not require tax returns, W2s, or employment verification.
What credit score do I need for a DSCR loan?
Most DSCR lenders require a minimum credit score of 620-640. However, better rates and terms are available with scores above 700. Some portfolio lenders may accept scores as low as 600 for strong properties with high DSCR ratios. Your credit score impacts your interest rate, down payment requirement, and overall loan approval.
How much down payment is required?
DSCR loans typically require 15-25% down payment, depending on your credit score, DSCR ratio, and property type. Properties with strong cash flow (DSCR above 1.25) may qualify for lower down payments. Single-family rentals often require less down than multi-family or commercial properties. Veterans may have additional options.
Do I need to verify my income for a DSCR loan?
No! The biggest advantage of DSCR loans is that they do NOT require income verification. You don't need to provide tax returns, W2s, pay stubs, or employment letters. Qualification is based entirely on the property's rental income and ability to cover the mortgage payment, making it perfect for self-employed investors or those with complex income situations.
What is a good DSCR ratio?
A DSCR ratio of 1.0 or higher is typically required, meaning the property's rental income equals or exceeds the mortgage payment. However, ratios of 1.25 or higher are considered strong and often qualify for better rates and terms. Some lenders accept DSCR as low as 0.75 with higher down payments, while ratios above 1.5 may qualify for premium pricing.
Can I use a DSCR loan for my primary residence?
No, DSCR loans are specifically designed for investment properties only. They cannot be used for primary residences or second homes. The property must be rented out or available for rent to generate the income used for qualification. This includes single-family rentals, multi-family properties (up to 4 units), condos, and some short-term rentals.

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