Avoid These 4 Credit Score Mistakes for Your DSCR Loan

Categories:

Avoid These 4 Credit Score Mistakes for Your DSCR Loan

DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are a game-changer for real estate investors. However, credit score does play a crucial role in the process. By avoiding some common credit score mistakes it can make all the difference. Let’s dive into four key credit score mistakes that you need to avoid and see how they impact your DSCR loan.

1. Cash Flow

Your credit score directly affects your loan interest rate, which in turn impacts your cash flow.

Example:

For this example we will use a loan amount of $250,000. If you have a good credit score (mid to high 700s), you might get a 30-year fixed rate at 7.375%. The monthly payment would be around $1,727. With taxes and insurance, your total payment would be $2,027. If the rent is $2,100, you have a positive cash flow.

However, if your credit score is lower (around 660), the interest rate might rise to 8.375%. This increases the monthly payment to $1,967, making your total payment $2,267. Now, your expenses exceed your rent, leading to negative cash flow. Therefore, keeping a good credit score is essential for maintaining a healthy cash flow.

2. Loan to Value (LTV)

Your credit score also affects how much you need to put down on a property, which is known as the loan to value ratio (LTV).

Example:

If you have a strong credit score, you might only need to put down 15-20% of the property’s value. For a $300,000 property, this means a down payment of $45,000 to $60,000. But with a lower credit score, your down payment requirement might increase to 25-30%, or $75,000 to $90,000. This higher down payment can limit the number of properties you can purchase and tie up more of your capital.

3. Approval

A higher credit score makes it easier to get your DSCR loan approved. Lenders view you as less risky, increasing your chances of approval.

Example:

Consider a scenario where your DSCR loan application is on the edge of approval. With a good credit score, your lower interest rate ensures your property has a positive cash flow, making it more likely for the loan to get approved. On the other hand, a lower credit score increases your interest rate, potentially leading to negative cash flow, and thus, your loan application might be rejected.

4. Options

A good credit score gives you more options. As a result, more lenders will compete for your business, which results in better loan terms.

Example:

With a high credit score, you will find multiple lenders who are eager to offer you a DSCR loan. This competition can lead to lower origination fees and better interest rates. Conversely, a lower credit score means fewer lenders will be willing to work with you, and those who do may charge higher fees and interest rates, reducing your overall profitability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your credit score is a vital tool in real estate investing. It affects your cash flow, LTV, loan approval, and the options available to you. By avoiding these common credit score mistakes, you can make your investment journey smoother and more profitable. Always remember, maintaining a good credit score is within your control and can significantly impact your success as a real estate investor.

For additional tips and tools that will improve your credit score, visit our website at The Cash Flow Company and check out our Credit Score Checklist.

Finally, watch our most recent video to find out more about how you can:Avoid These 4 Credit Score Mistakes for Your DSCR Loan

by

Why Real Estate Investors Should Compare Lenders

Categories:

Why Real Estate Investors Should Compare Lenders

Today we are going to discuss why real estate investors should compare lenders. In the same way a house, a contractor, or a realtor, loans cost money as well. For this reason, by not finding the best loan, it can impact your bottom line. So, where do you start and how can you shop around for the right one? Let’s take a closer look!

 Understanding Loan Costs.

In a nutshell, loans can be complicated. However, when you break it down, it’s all about simple math. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • Interest Rates: How much you pay to borrow the money.
  • Loan Term: The length of time you’ll be paying back the loan.
  • Fees: These include origination fees, appraisal fees, inspection fees, and more.

Each of these factors affects the total cost of your loan.

Why Use a Loan Cost Optimizer?

A Loan Cost Optimizer helps you compare different loan scenarios. After entering details about your project, you can then see which loan costs you the least. Here’s how it works:

  1. Input Different Scenarios: Enter details like loan amount, interest rate, fees, and loan term.
  2. Compare Costs: See the total cost for each scenario.
  3. Find the Best Deal: Choose the loan that saves you the most money.

Examples

Let’s look at some examples to see how this works.

Example 1: Short-Term Fix and Flip

  • Loan Term: 3 months
  • Interest Rate: 8%
  • Fees: $2,000

Total Cost: $4,000

Example 2: Long-Term Renovation

  • Loan Term: 12 months
  • Interest Rate: 6%
  • Fees: $5,000

Total Cost: $11,000

With this in mind, even though the interest rate is lower in the long-term loan, the fees in addition to the longer term make it more expensive.

Conclusion

Since every project has unique needs, it is important that you find the best loan every time. Therefore, by using a Loan Cost Optimizer you can discover how to keep your costs low, and find the best loan as well. In fact, investors who take the time to understand and compare the total costs, will not only make smarter decisions but more importantly maximize their profits !

Ready to get started? Visit our website and try our Loan Cost Optimizer today! As a matter of fact, it’s free and easy to use. You don’t have to commit to anything, instead, just see how it works and find the best loan for your next project.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Why Real Estate Investors Should Compare Lenders.

by

Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

Categories:

Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

Welcome to the world of real estate investing! Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, it’s essential to understand the different strategies that can help you make money now versus later. Let’s dive into how you can maximize your investments both short-term and long-term.

Making Money Now

Interest-Only Loans

An interest-only loan is a type of mortgage where you only pay the interest on the loan for a set period of time. This means that your monthly payments are lower because you’re not paying down the principal balance yet. By switching to an interest only loan you have an easier time qualifying, improve your cash flow, and can also be approved for higher loan amounts! 

Making Money Later

Long-Term Investment Strategy

Real estate investing isn’t just about making money now; it’s also about building wealth over time. Here’s how long-term strategies can help you achieve that.

Different Philosophies in Real Estate Investing:

Some investors aim to buy properties and pay them off as a retirement plan. Others prefer to keep refinancing and taking out cash to reinvest. It is important to keep in mind that by refinancing, it can help you to take advantage of lower interest rates and property appreciation. It also allows you to pull out cash from your properties to reinvest or cover personal expenses.

Immediate Cash Flow vs. Long-Term Wealth:

  • Immediate Cash Flow:

      • Great for investors who need cash now.
      • Interest-only loans provide more monthly cash flow.

  • Long-Term Wealth:

    • Ideal for investors focusing on future growth.
    • Refinancing and property appreciation build wealth over time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strategy:

  • Personal financial goals
  • Current market conditions
  • Risk tolerance

Combining Both Strategies for a Balanced Portfolio:

  • Use interest-only loans to improve cash flow now.
  • Plan to refinance and invest in long-term properties for future wealth.

Conclusion

Real estate investing offers various strategies that can help you make money now and build wealth for the future. It is important to assess your personal goals, consider market conditions, and choose the right approach for your investment needs. For personalized advice and loan options, contact The Cash Flow Company. We’re here to help you succeed in your real estate investing journey!

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

by

Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

Categories:

Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

Today we are going to discuss our Loan Cost Optimizer! This crucial financial tool helps you find the best loan for your real estate deal. Just like a house, a contractor, or a realtor, loans cost money and, more importantly, impact your bottom line. So, why wouldn’t you shop around and find the right one? 

Understanding Loan Costs.

In a nutshell, loans can be complicated. However, when you break it down, it’s all about simple math. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • Interest Rates: How much you pay to borrow the money.
  • Loan Term: The length of time you’ll be paying back the loan.
  • Fees: These include origination fees, appraisal fees, inspection fees, and more.

Therefore, each of these factors affects the total cost of your loan.

Why Use a Loan Cost Optimizer?

A Loan Cost Optimizer helps you compare different loan scenarios. By entering details about your project, you can see which loan costs you the least. Here’s how it works:

  1. Input Different Scenarios: Enter details like loan amount, interest rate, fees, and loan term.
  2. Compare Costs: See the total cost for each scenario.
  3. Find the Best Deal: Choose the loan that saves you the most money.

Examples

Let’s look at some examples to see how this works.

Example 1: Short-Term Fix and Flip

  • Loan Term: 3 months
  • Interest Rate: 8%
  • Fees: $2,000

Total Cost: $4,000

Example 2: Long-Term Renovation

  • Loan Term: 12 months
  • Interest Rate: 6%
  • Fees: $5,000

Total Cost: $11,000

With this in mind, even though the interest rate is lower in the long-term loan, the fees in addition to the longer term make it more expensive.

Tips for Using the Loan Cost Optimizer

This is an excellent tool that real estate investors can use in order to find the best loan option for their needs. It’s as easy as one, two, three! First, enter accurate details to ensure you get the best comparisons. Second, compare multiple loans to find the best option. Finally, consider the entire cost. This cost includes both the fees as well as the terms. To clarify, the entire cost is not just the interest rate. Additionally, there are a few more things that you need to keep in mind as well. Let’s take a look.

`1. Each Project is Different

Since every project has unique needs, it is important that you find the best loan every time. For example, sometimes you might need 100% financing, while other times, you can put more money down. With this in mind, let’s see how different scenarios can affect your choice:

  • Quick Flips: Higher interest rates along with lower fees might be better.
  • Longer Projects: Lower interest rates in addition to higher fees could be more cost-effective.

2. Keep Your Costs Low

In order to make the most money from your investments, keep your loan costs low. Here’s how:

  • Negotiate Fees: Don’t be afraid to ask for lower fees.
  • Shop Around: Compare offers from different lenders.
  • Match Loans to Projects: Use the Loan Cost Optimizer to find the best fit for each project.

Conclusion

Ultimately, using a Loan Cost Optimizer can help you find the best loan for your deal. In fact, by understanding and comparing the total costs, you can not only make smarter decisions but more importantly maximize your profits as well!

Ready to get started? Visit our website and try our Loan Cost Optimizer today! It’s free and easy to use. You don’t have to commit to anything, just see how it works and find the best loan for your next project.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

by

No Income: Your Best Investment Loan Option

Categories:

No Income: Your Best Investment Loan Option

Today we are going to discuss what your best investment loan option is if you do not have any income! That’s right! There are loan options available to you even if you don’t have a job, just changed jobs, or write everything off on your taxes. What is available to you and how do you get started? Let’s take a closer look!

Your best loan option!

One of the most versatile loan options available for investors is a DSCR loan. A DSCR loan is only available to investors and stands for the debt service coverage ratio. How do you qualify? As long as your rental property will cover the debt, you will be able to qualify for a DSCR loan. Unlike traditional loans, a DSCR loan will not take into consideration when you started your job or how long you’ve been self-employed. Instead, the lender’s primary focus is whether or not the income from the property qualifies for the loan.

Breaking even.

The debt service coverage ratio is what a DSCR loan is based off of and is where your property breaks even. While every property has a different break even point, this is the value that lenders will be looking at to determine whether or not the property qualifies for a DSCR loan. 

Expenses: Expenses include: The mortgage payment (including interest), taxes, insurance, flood, and HOA. 

Income: The rent received from the property.

For example:

If your rent is $1,000, then your expenses need to be $1,000 or less in order to qualify for a DSCR loan. The best scenario would be if your rents were $1,500 and the expenses were $1,000. This would create a $500 cash flow for the property.

Contact us today!

Don’t miss out on this best kept real estate secret! Find the best product today that not only provides ultimate flexibility but meets all of your investment needs as well. Here at The Cash Flow Company we are happy to run through the numbers with you to see what product is best for you. Contact us today to find out more about how you can qualify!

Watch our most recent video: How Can I Qualify for a Loan for My Real Estate Investments? 

by

Maximizing Rental Profits: Ensuring Your Property Makes Money

Categories:

Maximizing Rental Profits: Ensuring Your Property Makes Money

In order to be successful in real estate investing it is crucial that you maximize your profits on rental properties. Previously we discussed the roadblocks in real estate investing and what needed to be done in order to avoid them. Today we are going to focus on the 4th roadblock, which is rentals. How can you ensure your property makes money? Let’s dive in and find out more.

What makes up monthly costs?

In real estate investing it is important to know your numbers. What exactly does that mean? It all begins by calculating the monthly costs and subtracting them from the rental income. The monthly costs include interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, and flood. Another thing to keep in mind if you plan on using a DSCR loan is the DSCR ratio. This value would be added into the monthly costs as well. Here at The Cash Flow Company we know that numbers are not for everyone! We are happy to help walk you through things to ensure that the property will make money before you dive in! 

Does the property cash flow?

Real estate investors need to make sure that the property will make money before diving into the deal. By taking the time to do the calculations, you can quickly determine if the property will have a positive cash flow. Just to clarify, a positive cash flow is created when the rental income is greater than the monthly costs. It is imperative to determine this before purchasing a property, closing on a loan, or beginning a BRRRR. Don’t get into properties if you can’t afford to take losses. You never know what expenses may come up in the future.

The impacts of today’s market.

In today’s market, you need to break even if not make a little money monthly on the rental property. Predictions indicate that rates will be going back down this year to 5.5%. When rates decrease, it allows you to make even more on your investment property by refinancing. This is the ideal situation for a BRRRR, because you will have the opportunity to refinance. It creates the opportunity to take advantage of a lower rate, while capturing the equity. A DSCR on the other hand has prepayment penalties that could affect your ability to refinance. What do we mean by prepayment penalties? A prepayment penalty is a percentage of the remaining balance that will be charged if you pay off the loan early, refinance, or sell the property. While no one has a crystal ball predicting the future, it is important that you take everything into consideration beforehand.

The fine line between being approved or denied for a loan.

For a DSCR loan as well as many others, loan approvals are becoming more challenging. Whether it’s changes in your credit score or the DTI, investors walk a fine line. Being denied could cost $5K to $10K in earnest money. In looking at a BRRRR, if you have a fix and flip loan, bridge loan, or even a hard money loan, you may not be able to refinance it due to the bank’s requirement changes. The increased interest rates that are associated with the requirement changes could cause your property to have a negative cash flow as opposed to a positive one. When you are looking at investing in rental properties it is imperative that you are approved for financing prior to going shopping.

In conclusion.

Real estate investing is heavily reliant on funding and leverage. It is a high intensity business that is reliant on someone else giving them money at a rate that makes sense. Whether you are just starting out or you are a  seasoned investor, it is important that you understand numbers. In doing so, you will create the wealth you need to  succeed in this business. 

How can you start Maximizing Rental Profits and  Ensuring that Your Property Makes Money? Watch our most recent video to find out more!

Not sure where to begin or how to do the calculations to ensure cash flow? Contact us today! We are happy to walk you through the numbers.

by

What is an Interest-Only Loan?

Categories:

What is an Interest-Only Loan?

Are you a real estate investor looking for ways to boost your cash flow and make your investments more manageable? If so, you might want to consider an interest-only loan. These loans are becoming more popular among investors who want lower monthly payments and more flexibility with their finances.

How Does an Interest-Only Loan Work?

For the first few years (usually 5, 7, or 10 years), you only pay interest. After this period, you start paying both interest and principal. This means your payments will go up, but by then, you might be earning more rent or have other ways to cover the higher payments. Consequently, you can plan your finances better knowing when the higher payments will begin.

When is an Interest-Only Loan a Good Idea?

Interest-only loans can be great for:

  • Investors wanting to improve cash flow: Lower payments mean more money in your pocket each month. Therefore, you can handle your financial obligations more easily.
  • People planning to sell or refinance soon: If you plan to sell or refinance before the interest-only period ends, you can benefit from lower payments without worrying about the higher payments later. Thus, this can be a strategic move to maximize your investment.
  • Short-term projects: If you’re working on a project that will increase your income soon, like renovating a property to increase rent, this can help bridge the gap. As a result, you can complete your projects without financial strain.

Example:

Let’s say you own a rental property, but your current loan payments are too high compared to your rental income. By switching to an interest-only loan, your monthly payments go down. This helps you qualify for more loans, improve cash flow, and even take out more money to invest in another property. Consequently, you can grow your investment portfolio more effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, interest-only loans can be a powerful tool for real estate investors. They offer better cash flow, easier loan qualification, and more flexibility with your money. If you think an interest-only loan might be right for you, talk to a lender or financial advisor to explore your options. Therefore, taking advantage of interest-only loans can help you achieve your real estate investment goals more efficiently.

Ready to explore interest-only loans further? Visit our website, TheCashFlowCompany.com, to learn more. We offer a simple inquiry form where you can share your details. Don’t worry, we don’t do hard credit pulls or make frequent calls. We’re here to provide helpful advice and see if an interest-only loan is right for you. If it works, great! If not, no pressure.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: What is an Interest-Only Loan?

by

Top 3 Benefits for Real Estate Investors

Categories:

Intro to Interest Only Loans: Top 3 Benefits for Real Estate Investors

Interest-only loans are becoming a popular choice for real estate investors. Why? Because they offer unique advantages that can make a big difference in your investment strategy. Today we will explore the top three benefits of interest-only loans and how they can help you qualify more easily, improve your cash flow, and access larger loan amounts. Let’s dive in and see why an interest-only loan might be the right move for your next investment.

What is an Interest Only Loan?

An interest-only loan is exactly what it sounds like. You only pay the interest on the loan for a set period of time. Unlike typical mortgages where you pay both interest and a bit of the principal, an interest-only loan keeps your payments low by only covering the interest.

Benefits of Interest Only Loans

Interest-only loans offer several advantages, especially in today’s market. Here are the top three benefits for real estate investors:

1. Easier Qualification

One of the biggest benefits of an interest-only loan is that it can make it easier to qualify for financing.

Example: Let’s say you want to buy a rental property, but the current rent isn’t high enough to qualify for a regular loan. By switching to an interest-only loan, your monthly payments are lower. As a result, this reduces your expenses and improves your chances of meeting the lender’s requirements.

2. Improved Cash Flow

Next, interest-only loans can significantly boost your cash flow. With lower monthly payments, you have more money available each month.

Example: Imagine you own several rental properties. With an interest-only loan, your payments are smaller, giving you more cash each month. Consequently, this extra money can be used for renovations, paying off other debts, or simply enjoying a higher income.

3. Greater Loan Amounts

Finally, interest-only loans can help you access larger loan amounts. Since your payments are lower, you might qualify for more money.

Example: Suppose you’re an investor looking to cash out on a property to fund another project. By opting for an interest-only loan, you reduce your payments and can pull out more cash. This gives you the capital needed to start your next investment sooner.

How to Get Started with an Interest Only Loan

Ready to explore interest-only loans further? Visit our website, TheCashFlowCompany.com, to learn more. We offer a simple inquiry form where you can share your details. Don’t worry, we don’t do hard credit pulls or make frequent calls. We’re here to provide helpful advice and see if an interest-only loan is right for you. If it works, great! If not, no pressure.

In conclusion, interest-only loans are a fantastic tool in the right market and for the right investor. They help you qualify easier, improve your cash flow, and access more funds. Whether you’re building, renovating, or just want better cash flow, consider if an interest-only loan fits your strategy.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Intro to Interest Only Loans: Top 3 Benefits for Real Estate Investors

 

by

Real Estate Investing: Leverage Explained

Categories:

Real Estate Investing: Leverage Explained

Today we are going to discuss the importance that leverage has in real estate investing. Here at The Cash Flow Company, we see success from the money side because money is the key factor in real estate. The foundation of this business is leverage in order to build portfolios. Learn how it can play a vital role in your investments as well as provide opportunities that accelerate your success. Let’s take a closer look!

The importance of leverage.

Whether there are two properties or 10 properties, it is important to create more leverage over someone else. How can investors take care of their leverage on certain properties or on their portfolio? This can be accomplished by picking one property and focusing on paying it down quickly. In doing so, it will free up the equity in that property, and will provide you with more opportunities as well. 

Let’s look at the numbers!

5 properties

Each  Total for 5 properties
Property Value  $200K $1,000,000
LTV (loan to value) 75% $150K $750K
Equity  $50K $250K

In the world of leverage, an LTV of 75% unfortunately does not free up any equity. This is due to the fact that investors are paying down each property equally as opposed to paying a little more towards a single property. For example, if there was a deal available for $150K, you would not have enough equity available to purchase the property. Just to clarify, lenders will not lend over 75% on an investment property. How can you set yourself up for success while using the equity in your properties? The answer is by focusing on paying one property down faster. In doing so, you will in turn free up the equity Remember, those who will accelerate in this business are those who create financial flexibility. 

Contact us today! 

Use your equity to your advantage and create the leverage that you need to succeed! Do you need some guidance on where to get started? Here at The Cash Flow Company we can help you get on the path to success! Contact us today to find out more about Real Estate Investing: Leverage Explained<b>.

Watch our most recent video to learn more about Real Estate Investing: Leverage Explained</strong>

by

What Does Debt Service Coverage Ratio Mean?

Categories:

What Does Debt Service Coverage Ratio Mean?

Today we are going to discuss what debt service coverage ratio means and how a DSCR loan can help you achieve your investment goals. Thankfully there are a multitude of products that are available for investors to not only purchase new properties, but to refinance as well. Whether or not you have a job, just changed jobs, or write everything off on your taxes, there are products out there for you. How can a DSCR loan help you? Let’s take a closer look!

What does debt service coverage ratio mean?

The debt service coverage ratio is where your property breaks even. Just to clarify, that is when the income from the property and the expenses break even. While every property has a different break even point, this is the value that lenders will be looking at to determine whether or not the property qualifies for a DSCR loan. The expenses that lenders take into consideration are the mortgage payment (including interest), taxes, insurance, flood, and HOA. For example, if your rent is $1,000, then your expenses need to be $1,000 or less in order to qualify for a DSCR loan. The best scenario would be if your rents were $1,500 and the expenses were $1,000. This would create a $500 cash flow for the property.

A DSCR is the best loan option!

One of the most versatile loan options available for investors is a DSCR loan. How do you qualify? As long as your rental property will cover the debt, you will be able to qualify for a DSCR loan. Unlike traditional loans, a DSCR loan will not take into consideration when you started your job or how long you’ve been self-employed. Instead, the lender’s primary focus is whether or not the income from the property qualifies for the loan.

Contact us today!

Here at The Cash Flow Company we are happy to run through the numbers with you to see what product is best for you. Contact us today to find out more about how you can qualify!

Watch our most recent video: What Does Debt Service Coverage Ratio Mean?

by