Tag Archive for: DSCR

Can I Use a DSCR Loan for a Fixer Upper?

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One of the most common questions investors ask is this:
Can I use a DSCR loan for a fixer upper?

The answer is simple: No.

DSCR loans are only for rental-ready properties. That means the property must be in good enough shape for a tenant to move in right away—or at least within a couple of weeks.

What Is a DSCR Loan, Really?

DSCR stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio. This loan is all about the income from the property. In other words, the rental income—not your personal income—determines if you qualify.

Because of this, DSCR loans are a great tool when you’re buying or refinancing a rental property that’s already in move-in condition.

But if the property is missing a kitchen, bathroom, or major systems like HVAC, it won’t qualify for a DSCR loan. Lenders need to see that it’s rentable right away.

What If the Property Needs Work?

If your deal is a value-add property—meaning it needs some fixing up—you’ll need a different kind of loan for the first phase.

Here’s the right approach:

Step 1: Use a Fix-and-Flip or Bridge Loan

These short-term loans are designed to help you buy and rehab a property. Even though they’re called “fix and flip,” they work just as well for “fix and rent” situations.

You can use this type of loan to:

  • Buy the property

  • Fund the repairs

  • Get it ready for rental

Many banks and lenders offer these under the name bridge loans, fix-and-flip loans, or even fix-and-hold loans.

Step 2: Refinance Into a DSCR Loan

Once the rehab is complete and the property is rental-ready, you can refinance into a DSCR loan. Now the lender can base the loan on rental income—and not your tax returns or W-2s.

Use the BRRRR Strategy Instead

This two-loan approach is a part of the BRRRR method: Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat

It’s one of the best ways to build wealth with real estate. But you’ll need to follow the right steps to make it work.

👉 Need help understanding the BRRRR method?
Download our free BRRRR map at TheCashFlowCompany.com. It shows exactly how to use the right loans at each stage.

Reminder: DSCR Is for Rental-Ready Only

To keep things simple:

  • Use DSCR loans for clean, rent-ready properties.

  • Use fix-and-flip or bridge loans for properties that need work.

Then, once your project is finished, refinance into a long-term DSCR loan.

Helpful Tools Just for You

At The Cash Flow Company, we want to make things easier. That’s why we offer:

  • ✅ Free tools and downloads on our website

  • ✅ A detailed BRRRR map to guide your deals

  • ✅ A powerful eBook: “100% Financing 100% of the Time”
    It shows you how to fund your deals even if you don’t have your own money

👉 Visit TheCashFlowCompany.com to grab your free tools today!

Final Thoughts

The best real estate investors choose the right loan for the right stage of the deal.
If the property is ready to rent, go DSCR.
If it’s a fixer-upper, start with a short-term rehab loan.

Then, refinance the smart way.
📈 That’s how you build cash flow and long-term wealth.

Want help choosing the right loan for your next deal?
Reach out to us—we’re here to help you succeed.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: “Can I Use a DSCR Loan for a Fixer Upper?”

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How to Calculate Your DSCR Ratio

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Today we are going to discuss how to calculate your DSCR ratio. Understanding your DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) is key for any real estate investor. This number shows if your property makes enough income to cover its debt payments. Lenders use it to see if your investment is a smart bet. Luckily, calculating it is simple.

Here’s the formula:

DSCR = Net Operating Income (NOI) ÷ Total Debt Payments

Start with your property’s NOI. This is all the income it brings in, minus operating expenses like maintenance, property management, and taxes. For example, if your rental brings in $2,500 monthly and expenses are $500, your NOI is $2,000.

Next, add up your debt payments. This includes your monthly mortgage, insurance, and other loan costs. If these total $1,800, your DSCR is:
$2,000 ÷ $1,800 = 1.11

A DSCR over 1.0 means the property earns enough to cover its debts. Lenders often like to see 1.2 or higher, but it depends on the loan type.

Why does it matter?

Why does this matter? If your DSCR is too low, it might mean you’ll struggle to pay your bills. But a high DSCR shows lenders that you’re a safe bet.

By knowing your DSCR, you can plan smarter. For example, if your DSCR is tight, you might look at lowering expenses or finding a property with stronger cash flow.

So, run the numbers. It’s a small step that helps you, and your lender, see the big picture.

Contact Us Today! 

Do you need help learning how to calculate your DSCR ratio? Contact us today to find out more about DSCR loans!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the DSCR Quick Calculator to see if a DSCR loan is the best option for your investment properties! 

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can get on the fast track to success! 

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Real Estate Investors: How to Control Your Interest Rates in 2025

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Today we are going to discuss how to control your interest rates in 2025. Interest rates play a big role in your real estate success. Whether you’re flipping properties or building your rental portfolio, knowing how to manage interest rates is a game-changer. Let’s dive into how you can make interest rates work for you in 2025 using strategies straight from real-world examples.

How Rates Impact Fix-and-Flips

Interest rates can make or break your ability to sell a property. Here’s how they affect your buyers and your profits:

Example: Rates and Affordability

Imagine a consumer shopping for a home at today’s rate of 7.12%. At that rate, they might afford a $400,000 house. But if rates drop to 6.12%, their affordability jumps to $440,000 — a $40,000 difference. If rates drop further to 5.5%, they could afford a $490,000 home.

The larger the buyer pool that can afford your property, the more competition you create. That competition helps you sell faster or for a higher price.

Strategy: Buy Down the Rate

If rates are high, you can buy down your buyer’s rate to make your property more attractive. For example:

  • A $440,000 property might cost you 2.5% of the loan amount to buy down the rate.
  • With a loan amount of $352,000 (80% of the purchase price), the cost to buy down the rate is around $8,800.

This investment can save you from dropping your price by $20,000 to $40,000 just to attract buyers. You keep your profits high while expanding your buyer pool.

How Rates Impact Rental Properties

For rental investors, interest rates directly affect your cash flow and your ability to qualify for loans.

Example: Local Banks vs. DSCR Loans

Let’s say you need a $250,000 loan for a rental property. At a 7% rate on a DSCR loan, your monthly principal and interest (P&I) would be $1,664.

But local banks and credit unions often offer lower rates, like 5.5%, for short-term fixed loans. At 5.5%, your payment drops to $1,458, saving you over $200 per month. That’s extra cash flow in your pocket or the difference between qualifying for a loan or not.

Strategy: Match Your Loan to Your Market

If you expect rates to drop in a few years, a short-term fixed loan from a local bank can be a great option. You lock in a lower rate now and refinance later if rates improve. This strategy keeps your rental property profitable and cash-flow positive, even in a challenging market.

Crush It in 2025!

2025 might bring steady interest rates between 5.5% and 7.5%. Instead of waiting for rates to drop, you can take control:

  1. For flips: Buy down rates to increase affordability and attract more buyers.
  2. For rentals: Explore local bank options for lower rates and better cash flow.

Understanding interest rates and using these strategies puts you ahead of the game. The bigger your buyer pool or rental margin, the more money you’ll make. Let’s make 2025 your most profitable year yet!

Have questions or need guidance? Reach out to learn how to optimize your rates and deals. We’re here to help!

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Real Estate Investors: How to Control Your Interest Rates in 2025

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Conventional vs DSCR Interest Rates

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When it comes to real estate investing, understanding interest rates can make or break your deals. Whether you’re financing a rental property or a fix-and-flip, it’s essential to know the difference between conventional vs DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) interest rates. Let’s break it all down so you can stay ahead of the game.

What Impacts Interest Rates?

You may have noticed that even when the Federal Reserve cuts rates, mortgage rates don’t always follow. Why? It all comes down to supply and demand in the market.

  • DSCR Rates: These track closely with the 5-year treasury note.
  • Conventional Rates: These are tied to the 10-year treasury note.

Both types of loans adjust based on market conditions, not directly on Fed decisions.

How to Track DSCR and Conventional Rates

Knowing where rates are headed is key to timing your deals. Here’s how you can stay informed:

DSCR Rates

DSCR loans rely on the 5-year treasury rate, with an added margin. For example, if the 5-year treasury rate is 4.2%, and lenders add 2.75%, your DSCR rate would be around 7%.

  • Example: The 5-year treasury peaked at 4.64% recently but is now in the 4.2–4.3% range. If you’re ready to lock in, this can make a big difference in your payment.

Conventional Rates

Conventional loans follow the 10-year treasury rate, with margins that vary. Typically, lenders add about 2–2.5 points, though it can go higher.

  • Example: If the 10-year treasury rate is 4.41%, conventional rates might range from 6.5% to 7% depending on market conditions and lender fees.

Why Timing Matters

Rates don’t stay still—they move up and down daily, sometimes by 10 to 20 basis points. This is why being ready to lock in during a micro dip can save you thousands.

Micro Dips in Action

When the 5-year treasury dips, DSCR rates follow. For instance:

  • September Example: After rates hit a high, a brief drop occurred as the market believed inflation was under control. But when traders realized inflation wasn’t tamed, rates bounced back up.

The same goes for conventional loans, where dips depend on shifts in the 10-year treasury.

Tools to Stay Informed

You don’t need to monitor rates all day. Here’s how to stay in the loop:

  1. Check Online: Search “Today’s 5-year treasury rate” or “Today’s 10-year treasury rate” on MarketWatch or similar sites.
  2. Subscribe to Reports: The Cash Flow Company’s weekly Mortgage Report keeps you updated on DSCR and conventional rates.
  3. Use Alerts: Sign up for tools like our A-List, where you’ll get notified when rates hit your target.

What’s Ahead for Rates?

In the next year, expect fluctuations:

  • DSCR Rates: Likely to hover between the mid-6% to low-7% range.
  • Conventional Rates: May stay between high-5% to low-7%, depending on inflation and the economy.

This means staying proactive and informed is crucial for locking in the best deals.

Final Thoughts

Interest rates are more than just numbers—they’re the key to cash flow, affordability, and the success of your investments. By tracking treasury rates and timing your loans during dips, you can optimize your deals and maximize your returns.

If you’re unsure where to start, tools like our Mortgage Report and A-List we are here to help.

Ready to learn more? Check out our Investor Mortgage Report for the latest investor forecast for 2024.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Conventional vs DSCR Interest Rates

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Real Estate Investing: How Important Is Your Credit Score?

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Many real estate investors ask “how important is your score?” when looking at financing options. In a nutshell, your credit score is like your real estate reputation. It tells lenders how trustworthy you are when it comes to paying back loans. But how much does it really matter in real estate investing? The answer: it depends on your goals and the type of loans you need.

Financing Options:

For example, if you want a traditional mortgage, your credit score plays a big role. A high one could mean lower rates and better terms. But if you’re using a loan like a DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan, lenders focus more on the property’s income than your personal credit.

The Power of Cash Flow:

Let’s say you’re buying a rental property with solid cash flow. Even if your score isn’t perfect, a DSCR loan might still work for you. On the flip side, if you’re planning to fix and flip homes, hard money lenders may prioritize the deal itself over your credit.

Save Money Today:

While your credit score isn’t everything, it can save you money. Higher ones often unlock lower rates, meaning smaller payments over time. But don’t let a low score stop you. Real estate investing has many paths, and you can find one that fits your situation.

So, how important is your credit score? It depends on the path you take, but knowing where you stand is always a smart first step.

Contact Us Today! 

How important is your credit score based on your investment goals? Contact us today to find out more about common mistakes and how you can get back on track.

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Credit Score Checklist to see if your credit score is in the right place for your investment needs.

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can get on the fast track to success! 

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How to Get Ready for Rate Drops

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Today we will be discussing how to get ready for rate drops., and why staying ahead of rate changes is crucial for real estate investors. Whether you’re focused on DSCR loans or conventional loans, being prepared for even small dips in interest rates can save you thousands. Here’s how to stay ready and informed, so you can lock in the best rates at the right time.

Understand What Drives Interest Rates

It’s a common misconception that the Fed Funds Rate directly affects mortgage rates. While it plays a role, investor loans, including DSCR and conventional loans, follow different patterns:

  • DSCR Loans: These are closely tied to the 5-year Treasury rate.
  • Conventional Loans: These track the 10-year Treasury rate.

For example, if the 5-year Treasury rate is at 4.3%, a competitive DSCR loan rate might add about 2.75%, making it just over 7%. Similarly, a 10-year Treasury rate of 4.4% could translate to a conventional loan rate around 6.5% to 7%, depending on lender margins.

Why Rates Fluctuate

Rates are driven by supply and demand in the bond market. When the government issues more treasuries, buyers often demand higher returns, which raises rates. Inflation also plays a big role. If inflation feels out of control, the market adjusts, pushing rates higher.

For instance:

  • In late 2023, inflation concerns caused a jump in 5-year and 10-year Treasury rates, which directly impacted DSCR and conventional mortgage rates.

Monitor Treasury Rates Regularly

To predict mortgage rate trends, keep an eye on Treasury rates. Here’s how:

  1. Search Online: Type “today’s 5-year Treasury rate” or “today’s 10-year Treasury rate” into Google. Look for up-to-date information from sites like MarketWatch.
  2. Review Trends: Check the charts to see recent movements. For example, a drop from 4.6% to 4.3% in the 5-year Treasury could signal a favorable moment to lock in a DSCR loan.
  3. Add the Spread: Use simple math to estimate loan rates by adding the standard spread:
    • DSCR Loan: Add 2.75% to the 5-year Treasury rate.
    • Conventional Loan: Add about 2–3 points to the 10-year Treasury rate.

Be Ready to Act During Micro Dips

Interest rates for DSCR loans often experience brief drops, or “micro dips.” These dips may last only a few days or weeks, so preparation is key.

For example:

  • If DSCR rates dip to 6.5% from 7%, you’ll want to lock in immediately. Waiting could mean missing out on significant savings.

Tools to Stay Prepared

Here are a few strategies and resources to help you stay ahead:

  1. Sign Up for Alerts: Services like The Cash Flow Company’s A-List notify you when rates hit your target. For example, if you’re waiting for a 6.2% DSCR rate, you’ll get an alert when it’s available.
  2. Weekly Mortgage Reports: Subscribe to a weekly update that tracks rate trends for DSCR and conventional loans. This keeps you informed without having to check daily.
  3. Monitor Markets: Use tools like Google and MarketWatch to track 5-year and 10-year Treasury rates. Even small daily changes can make a difference.

What to Expect in 2024

Experts predict rates will remain in a narrow range over the next year:

  • DSCR Rates: Likely between 6%–7.5%.
  • Conventional Rates: Expected to stay between 5.5%–7.5%.

While rates will fluctuate, being prepared to act during a dip will give you the edge.

Ready to Lock in Your Rate?

Taking the time to monitor rates and understand their trends will help you maximize your cash flow. Whether you use tools like our A-List or track Treasury rates yourself, preparation is everything. Remember, even a small dip can make a big impact on your bottom line. Stay informed, act quickly, and get ready for the opportunities ahead.

By staying proactive and monitoring the market, you can ensure you’re always one step ahead. Ready to learn more? Sign up for our weekly mortgage report or join the A-List today!

Watch our most recent video to learn more about: How to get ready for rate drops.

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Real Estate Market: What’s Happening with Interest Rates?

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Today we are going to discuss what’s happening with interest rates. Interest rates are the heartbeat of the real estate market, and they’ve been anything but predictable lately. Whether you’re an investor eyeing DSCR loans or tackling fix-and-flip projects, understanding rate trends is key to making smart moves. Let’s dive into what’s driving these shifts, how to keep track, and what it all means for your next investment.

Why Are Rates So Unpredictable?

You may have heard about the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates. However, those cuts don’t directly lower real estate loan rates. Instead, the real estate market relies heavily on treasury yields.

  • DSCR loans align with the 5-year Treasury note.
  • Conventional loans follow the 10-year Treasury note.

This means your rates depend on how these treasuries perform, not just on what the Fed decides.

What’s Happening Right Now?

DSCR Loans: Small Dips, Then Jumps

DSCR loan rates have seen slight drops, or “micro dips”, lasting a week or two before climbing again. These rates typically start with the 5-year Treasury yield and add about 2.75%.

For example:

  • If the 5-year Treasury is 4.3%, DSCR loan rates may land around 7% for 75-80% loan-to-value (LTV) loans.

Conventional Loans: Higher Add-Ons

Conventional loans, commonly used for fix-and-flip projects, work similarly. Add about 2-3 points to the 10-year Treasury rate to estimate rates.

For example:

  • A 10-year Treasury yield of 4.41% could result in rates around 6.5% to 7.5% for borrowers.

Why Are Rates Moving This Way?

Two key factors drive rate changes:

  1. Inflation Worries
    Investors in treasuries expect higher yields when inflation feels uncertain. This increases borrowing costs for everyone.
  2. US Treasury Supply
    As the government issues more treasury bonds, buyers demand higher interest rates. The market adjusts to balance supply and demand.

What’s Next for 2024?

Experts expect rates to bounce within a predictable range:

  • DSCR Loans: Mid-6% to low-7%.
  • Conventional Loans: High-5% to mid-7%.

If you’re investing, watch for those micro dips. When they happen, it’s time to lock in a rate quickly.

How to Monitor Rates

Want to track interest rates like a pro? Here are two simple ways:

  1. Check Treasury Yields
    Search for “today’s 5-year Treasury rate” or “10-year Treasury rate” on Google. Websites like MarketWatch show up-to-date rates and trends.
  2. Sign Up for Weekly Updates
    The Cash Flow Company offers a free Mortgage Report to help investors track changes. We even notify you when rates hit your target.

Be Prepared for Rate Fluctuations

Interest rates are unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you have to be caught off guard. By tracking trends and understanding the factors, you can make smarter decisions for your real estate investments.

Want to know when rates hit your sweet spot? Join our A-List, and we’ll notify you when they do. Sign up below to stay in the know!

Take Control of Your Investments Today.

Stay informed, act quickly, and secure the best rates for your deals. Let’s make 2024 a successful year together!

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Real Estate Market: What’s Happening with Interest Rates?

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Qualifying for a DSCR Loan

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Qualifying for a DSCR loan can feel a bit different from qualifying for a traditional loan. This is due to the fact that a DSCR loan is based on the properties ability to pay for itself as opposed to being based on your income. Today we are going to walk through a quick guide to qualifying for a DSCR loan in order to help you to see whether or not your property qualifies. 

First: Understand the role of the property income: 

The property’s income must cover the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees and other costs.

Second: Use the DSCR calculator:

The Cash Flow Company offers a free DSCR calculator tool that can see if a property qualifies.

Third: Adjust LTV Ratios if needed:

If your DSCR is below 1, consider adjusting your LTV. Dropping to 75% or even 70% can make a big difference.

Fourth: Use realistic rent numbers:

It is important that you use accurate rent numbers. An appraiser will check the rent for the neighborhood, so you need to be realistic with your calculations.

Fifth: Consider interest rates and how they affect DSCR:

Interest rates impact DSCR. If rates go up, your DSCR might drop below 1, meaning that the property may no longer qualify. 

Finally: Make sure it’s a good investment:

Once you have a DSCR above 1, double check that the property will either make money or cost you monthly. 

Contact Us Today! 

Is a DSCR loan right for you? Contact us today to find out more about DSCR loans!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the DSCR Quick Calculator today to see if a DSCR loan is the best option for your investment properties! 

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can get on the fast track to success! 

 

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DSCR: You Must Own a Property THIS LONG Before Refinancing

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If you’re diving into real estate investing and using DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans, you’ve likely heard the term “seasoning.” Understanding seasoning is essential, especially if you’re following the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) and want to know when you can pull your money back out to fund your next project. What is seasoning and how can it affect you? Lets take a closer look!

What is Seasoning?

In simple terms, seasoning is how long you need to own a property before refinancing it. If you bought a property one month ago, it’s been “seasoned” for one month. Each lender has its own requirements, and they vary depending on the type of loan and lender.

For example:

  • Traditional Lenders: Often require at least 12 months of ownership before allowing a cash-out refinance.
  • DSCR Lenders: Typically require a 6-month seasoning period, though some allow as little as 3 months—or even none!

Why Does Seasoning Matter for DSCR Loans?

With DSCR loans, this affects your ability to use the appraised value of the property rather than the purchase price. This can be a big deal for investors aiming to get back their investment and move on to the next project. Here’s how it works:

  • After Rehab Value: When you’ve put work into a property, it often increases in value. These rules impact whether you can refinance based on this new, higher appraised value.
  • Cash-Out Timing: The sooner you can refinance based on the higher value, the faster you can reinvest in more properties.

Example:
Let’s say you bought a property for $275,000, put $25,000 of work into it, and now it’s worth $400,000. To pull your money out at this new value, you’ll need to meet the lender’s seasoning requirement.

DSCR Loan Seasoning Requirements: What to Expect

While each lender has its own rules, here’s a typical breakdown of the requirements:

  1. 6-Month: Most DSCR lenders require you to own the property for at least six months.
    • Example: If you bought the property on January 1st, you could refinance it as early as July 1st.
  2. 3-Month: Some lenders allow a shorter 3-month seasoning period.
    • Example: If you closed on January 1st, you could potentially refinance by April 1st, depending on the lender.
  3. No Seasoning: A few lenders have no seasoning period at all. These lenders allow you to refinance based on the current appraised value as soon as the rehab is complete.

Tips for Choosing a Lender Based on Seasoning

Every lender has a “box” of rules, and not all lenders are the same. Some are flexible with shorter seasoning periods, while others stick to strict timelines. Here’s how to find the right lender for your goals:

  • Know Your Timeline: If you’re in a rush to get your cash back, look for a lender with shorter seasoning requirements.
  • Shop Around: Different lenders offer various seasoning terms, so it pays to shop around. Brokers can be a big help here, as they have access to multiple lenders.
  • Use Tools Like the Loan Cost Optimizer: A tool like The Cash Flow Company’s Loan Cost Optimizer can help you compare costs and find the best fit for your loan needs.

Why Shorter Seasoning Matters in the BRRR World

If you’re using the BRRR strategy, shorter seasoning periods allow you to:

  1. Get Your Cash Out Faster: Quickly pull your investment back to fund the next deal.
  2. Maximize Profitability: Refine properties quickly, avoid delays, and keep projects moving.
  3. Stay Flexible: Adapt your lending strategy to different project timelines and goals.

Example in Action:
You buy a property in January, renovate it in February, and get it rented by March. If your lender only requires three months of seasoning, you could refinance by April, freeing up your funds for your next purchase.

The Key Takeaway: Find a Lender that Matches Your Needs

When picking a lender, make sure their seasoning period aligns with your goals. Don’t be stuck waiting months to refinance when you’re ready to move on. Whether it’s a 6-month, 3-month, or no-seasoning requirement, the right lender can help you get your cash out faster, keep your BRRRR projects rolling, and ultimately reach your investing goals sooner.

For more guidance, check out The Cash Flow Company’s tools or reach out to talk through your options. With the right lender on your side, you can make the most of your DSCR loan—and your investments!

Watch our most recent video to find out more!

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DSCR Loan: Will My Property Qualify for a DSCR Loan?

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Many investors ask “will my property qualify for a DSCR loan?” The answer depends on the income your property brings in, not on your personal finances. DSCR loans are unique because they focus solely on the property’s ability to pay for itself through rental income. Let’s dive into what makes a property eligible and how you can check if yours qualifies.

What Determines DSCR Loan Qualification?

DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans are all about the income and expenses tied to the property itself. Unlike traditional loans, DSCR loans don’t look at your personal income. Here are the main factors to keep in mind:

  • Property Income Over Personal Income


    DSCR loans focus entirely on whether your property can cover its own costs. That means expenses like the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, and any HOA fees all need to balance out with rental income. If the property can cover these costs, it’s more likely to qualify for a DSCR loan.

  • Key Metric: DSCR Ratio


    To see if your property qualifies, you need to know its DSCR ratio. This ratio measures how well the property’s rental income covers the debt payments. A DSCR ratio of at least 1.0 means the property breaks even, while a higher ratio indicates better cash flow.

Example: Testing Property Qualification with the DSCR Calculator

Let’s go through an example to see if a property qualifies for a DSCR loan. You can use a free DSCR calculator (available at The Cash Flow Company’s website) to follow along with your own numbers.

  1. Input Property DataSuppose you’re looking at a property worth $300,000 and want an 80% loan-to-value (LTV). This would give you a loan amount of $240,000. Now, enter some other property costs:
    • Interest rate: 6.5%
    • Monthly property taxes: $250
    • Monthly insurance: $200
    • Monthly rental income: $1,800
  2. Check Loan ScenariosUse the DSCR calculator to see how different loan options affect qualification:
    • Interest-Only Loan
      In this example, the property qualifies with an interest-only loan since the DSCR ratio is above 1.0. This means rental income can cover the interest payments.
    • 30-Year Amortized Loan
      Here, the DSCR ratio falls below 1.0, meaning rental income doesn’t fully cover the 30-year loan payments.
    • 40-Year Amortized Loan
      Similar to the 30-year, the DSCR ratio is still below 1.0, so the property doesn’t qualify under this setup either.
  3. Adjust and TestIf your first scenario doesn’t qualify, try adjusting the loan-to-value (LTV) ratio. For example:
    • 75% LTV reduces the loan amount to $225,000, but the DSCR ratio may still be under 1.0.
    • 70% LTV brings the DSCR to exactly 1.0. This shows that lowering the loan amount can improve your chances of qualifying.

Understanding the DSCR Ratio and Loan Requirements

When it comes to DSCR loans, lenders usually look for a DSCR ratio of at least 1.0 to 1.1. While a 1.0 ratio is enough for many, aiming for 1.1 or higher gives you a better shot at qualifying and may offer better terms.

  • If DSCR Falls Below 1.0
    If your property’s DSCR ratio is below 1.0, it might not qualify, or it may require a higher interest rate to offset the risk. This affects profitability, so it’s crucial to find a balance where your DSCR ratio meets lender requirements and still provides a good return.

Using the Free DSCR Calculator to Qualify Your Property

You don’t need to guess if your property will qualify. Download the free DSCR calculator from The Cash Flow Company and test your property’s numbers before applying. By adjusting factors like the loan-to-value ratio, you can see where the property stands and avoid surprises.

Conclusion

Knowing whether your property qualifies for a DSCR loan can save you time and effort. Try the DSCR calculator on each potential investment to see if it’s likely to generate positive cash flow. If you have any questions or need guidance on how to use the calculator, reach out to us! With the right prep, you’ll know if your property is set to make you money or if it’s better to pass.

Watch our most recent video to see more about: DSCR Loan: Will My Property Qualify for a DSCR Loan?

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