DSCR: Do Lenders Care More About You or Your Property?

If you’re considering a DSCR loan (Debt Service Coverage Ratio loan), you might wonder, “do lenders care more about you or your property?” It’s a common question, and understanding the process can help you get approved smoothly. Let’s walk through the exact steps.

What YOU Need to Get Approved for a DSCR Loan

Before you even think about a property, start with you. You’ll want to get pre-approved to ensure you’re ready when the perfect deal comes along. Here’s what lenders look at when they evaluate you:

1. Credit Score
   Your credit score is one of the most important factors for getting the best DSCR loan rates. The higher your score, the better your rate. It’s smart to check where your credit stands now and see if there are ways to improve it before applying. For example, if your score is on the lower end, you might work on improving it before buying.
2. Cash to Close
   Do you have enough money for the down payment, closing costs, and reserves? With DSCR loans, you typically need around 20–25% down. For instance, if you’re looking at a $250,000 property, you’ll need at least $50,000 plus closing costs. Make sure the cash is ready in your account, as lenders will check to see if it’s accessible.
3. LLC Setup
   Most investors buy properties under an LLC. So, it’s important to make sure your LLC is set up correctly. Have your EIN, operating agreement, and other paperwork ready. This step will help speed things up when you put a property under contract.

What Your PROPERTY Needs to Get Approved

Now that you’ve got yourself ready, it’s time to think about the property. Lenders also care a lot about the property you’re buying, especially with DSCR loans. Here are the main things they’ll look at:

1. DSCR Ratio
   The DSCR ratio is the most critical factor for your property. This ratio compares the property’s income to its expenses. A ratio of 1:1 means the property earns enough rent to cover its mortgage, taxes, insurance, and other costs. You can calculate this easily using a tool like the one available on the Cash Flow Company website. Make sure the property hits at least 1:1, or you might have to bring more money to the table.
2. Location
   Where is the property located? Properties in rural areas can be tough to finance because lenders struggle to find comps (comparable sales) for the appraisal. If your property is too remote, it may be excluded by some lenders, which could limit your options.
3. Size (Loan Amount)
   Lenders also consider the property’s value and loan amount. For example, if you’re buying an $80,000 property, it might be hard to find a lender because some have minimum loan amounts. Even though smaller properties can cash flow well, make sure the loan amount is big enough for the lender to approve.

Are You Ready to Apply for a DSCR Loan?

Before you start shopping for properties, it’s best to get pre-approved. This way, you’ll know your credit score is in order, you have the right amount of cash, and your LLC is ready to go. After pre-approved, you can focus on finding a property that qualifies based on its DSCR ratio, location, and size.

If the property you want doesn’t quite meet the ratio, don’t worry. There are options — but be aware the rates might be higher, and it could be trickier to get the property cash flowing.

Need Help with Your DSCR Loan?
If you’re unsure about your approval status or need help calculating your DSCR ratio, feel free to reach out to us at The Cash Flow Company. We’re here to help you get the best loan possible so you can build wealth and create the financial freedom you’re after!

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