Tag Archive for: The Cash Flow Company

Does Your Rental Property Fit in a Lender’s Box?

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Understanding whether your rental property fits into a lender’s box is key to getting the financing you need. Each lender has specific requirements, and one of the big ones is seasoning. Let’s dive into what seasoning is, why it matters, and how you can navigate lender requirements for your property.

What Is Seasoning?

In lending, “seasoning” refers to how long you’ve owned a property. From the moment you buy a property, it starts “seasoning” in the lender’s eyes. The longer you own it, the more seasoned it becomes. Lenders often have rules about seasoning, especially when it comes to cash-out refinances.

  • Example: If you bought a rental property two months ago, it has two months of seasoning.

How Seasoning Affects Your Cash-Out Refinance

If you’re planning a cash-out refinance, most lenders want the property to be seasoned for a certain period. For example, many traditional lenders require 12 months of seasoning before they’ll allow you to take cash out. However, some DSCR lenders, who focus on a property’s income potential, have more flexible seasoning requirements.

Typical Seasoning Requirements:

  1. Traditional Loans: Usually require 12 months of ownership.
  2. DSCR Loans: Often require just 6 months of seasoning.
  3. Shorter Terms Available: Some DSCR lenders even go as low as 3 months and, in rare cases, 0 months.

Why Seasoning Matters for BRRRR Investors

For investors using the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) strategy, seasoning plays a huge role. The goal is to buy, fix, and rent a property quickly, then refinance to pull your cash back out for the next deal. A shorter seasoning period lets you access the property’s appraised value sooner, which is ideal for keeping your investment cycle moving.

Example of Why Short Seasoning Matters:

Imagine you bought a fixer-upper for $275,000 and put $25,000 into rehab. After the work, the property appraises at $400,000. Here’s why you want a shorter seasoning period:

  • With 12-Month Seasoning: You’d have to wait a full year to access that $400,000 appraisal value.
  • With 6-Month Seasoning: You could refinance in half the time, freeing up funds to invest in your next project.
  • With 3-Month or No Seasoning: You’re moving even faster, which is ideal for BRRR investors aiming for quick turnaround.

Find the Right DSCR Lender for Your Project

Not all DSCR lenders are the same. Each has its own box of requirements, including different seasoning rules. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Know the Seasoning Requirement: Make sure the lender’s seasoning timeline matches your goals.
  2. Consider a Broker: Brokers often have access to multiple lenders, giving you options that a direct lender might not offer.
  3. Check for Flexible Terms: Some lenders allow for 0-3 months seasoning, which can be a game-changer if you want to move fast.

The Loan Cost Optimizer Tool

At The Cash Flow Company, we understand that finding the right lender box can be challenging. To help, we offer a Loan Cost Optimizer Tool. This tool lets you compare costs and options across lenders to find the best match for your deal, whether it’s a fix-and-flip, DSCR, or traditional loan.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to explore your options, visit The Cash Flow Company and use our Loan Cost Optimizer to see where your rental property fits best. And if you have questions, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you make your investing journey smooth and profitable!

By knowing where your rental property fits in a lender’s box, you can move confidently from one project to the next without delay.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Does Your Rental Property Fit in a Lender’s Box?

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What is BRRRR?

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BRRRR is a game-changer for real estate investors looking to build wealth. It stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat. This strategy not only helps you grow a portfolio of rental properties, but allows you to do so with less money out of pocket.

Here’s how it works:

  • Buy: Start by finding a property that needs some love, usually at a discount. For example, you might find a fixer-upper for $120,000 in a growing neighborhood.
  • Rehab: Fix it up to increase its value. Say you spend $30,000 to renovate—new flooring, updated kitchen, fresh paint, and more.
  • Rent: Once it’s ready, rent it out to a tenant. The rent covers your mortgage and even gives you a little extra each month.
  • Refinance: Here’s the key. Refinance the property based on its new value. If it’s now worth $200,000, you can pull out cash to pay off the original loan and some of the rehab costs.
  • Repeat: Use that cash to buy your next property and repeat the cycle.

It’s a smart way to leverage your money. With each property, you’re creating cash flow, building equity, and scaling your portfolio. Done right, BRRRR can help you grow faster than traditional investing.

Contact Us Today! 

How can you maximize your profits as a real estate investor? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the BRRRR Roadmap today to see if your potential rental property is going to be a good investment!

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize your profits! 

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Building Generational Wealth: A Real Estate Investor’s Path

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Building generational wealth isn’t just for the rich and famous. It’s a way to set your family up for success for today and tomorrow. Real estate investing is one of the best tools to make it happen. Why? Because property creates both cash flow now and long-term value for the future.

Imagine owning a rental property that pays for itself and puts money in your pocket each month. That steady cash flow can help fund your next investment, cover unexpected expenses, or even pay for your child’s education. Over time, as the property value grows, you build equity. This equity is your golden ticket to creating more opportunities for the next generation.

Starting small is okay. The key is thinking long-term and focusing on assets that appreciate while generating income. Whether it’s your first rental or your fifth flip, every deal you make is a step toward building a legacy.

Real estate doesn’t just change your life—it can shape your family’s future. The best time to start? Now.

Contact Us Today! 

How can you begin building generational wealth? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Quick Deal Analyzer to see if your potential rental property is going to be a good investment!

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize your profits! 

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DSCR Loan: What Is Property Seasoning?

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If you’re diving into real estate investing, you’ve likely heard of “property seasoning.” But what is property seasoning, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down simply so you can keep moving forward with your investment goals.

What Is Property Seasoning?

In real estate lending, seasoning means how long you’ve owned a property. Imagine you bought a property a month ago. At this point, your property is “seasoned” for one month. Lenders care about seasoning because it affects when you can access certain types of refinancing, like cash-out refinancing.

Why Seasoning Matters for DSCR Loans

For DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans, seasoning impacts how soon you can refinance a property using its appraised value instead of the purchase price. This difference is crucial, especially for investors who follow the BRRRR (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat) method. Here’s why:

  • Higher Appraised Value: When you invest in a fixer-upper, you add value through repairs or upgrades. Over time, this improves the property’s worth. After a few months of seasoning, many DSCR lenders let you refinance based on this new, higher value.
  • Get Cash Out Faster: With DSCR loans, you want to access the property’s equity sooner so you can use those funds on your next investment.

Typical Seasoning Requirements

Not all lenders have the same seasoning rules. Here’s a quick look at common requirements:

  • Traditional Loans: Many conventional lenders need 12 months of seasoning for a cash-out refinance.
  • DSCR Loans: Most DSCR lenders require at least 6 months of seasoning, but this can vary.

Some DSCR lenders may even allow:

  1. 6 Months – Most DSCR lenders are comfortable here.
  2. 3 Months – A few lenders are more flexible with shorter seasoning.
  3. 0 Months – Rare, but some lenders allow no seasoning if the property appraises high enough.

Example: Seasoning in Action

Let’s say you bought a property in January for $275,000, invested $25,000 in upgrades, and now it’s worth $400,000. If your lender has a 6-month seasoning rule, you’ll need to wait until July to refinance based on the $400,000 value. With a shorter seasoning period, you could refinance sooner, free up cash, and move to your next project faster.

Choosing the Right Lender

Every lender has its own “box” or rules for lending. If one lender’s seasoning requirement doesn’t match your goals, look for others that do. Working with a broker can also help since they connect you to lenders with various seasoning requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Know Your Lender’s Rules: Seasoning requirements vary, especially between traditional and DSCR loans.
  • Aim for Flexibility: Find a lender or broker who can offer the shortest seasoning to match your investment needs.
  • Use Tools: Tools like a Loan Cost Optimizer can help you compare loan options and maximize profits.

Need Help with Your Loan?

For more guidance on finding the right DSCR loan or checking on seasoning requirements, visit our website, The Cash Flow Company. With the right tools and advice, you can make smarter, faster investment moves!

Watch our most recent video to find out more!

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Improve your credit score today!

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There are 8 easy tricks that you can do to improve your credit score as a small business owner. Those who know the rules and how to play the game will be in the best position to win! Let’s take a quick look!

  1. Do Not Open New Credit!
  2. Fix Old Information On Your Credit Report
  3. Fast Inquiry Removal 
  4. Build Local Relationships
  5. Run All Transactions Through Business Accounts
  6. Pay Cards Before Statement Cycle Closing Date
  7. Establish Your Business
  8. Shop Around For The Right Lender

Make a change today to set yourself up for success! Not only is it important that you establish your business correctly from day one, but that you also work on forming positive relationships. In doing so, you will improve your credit score as well as create the leverage you need for future growth. 

Contact Us Today! 

Not sure where to start? Contact us today to find out more about credit score 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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Cash Out Refinance

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Have you considered tapping into your home equity? A cash out refinance can give you the money you need by replacing your current mortgage with a larger one. Just to clarify, you receive the difference in cash. 

Reasons to choose a cash out refinance:

First, You need a large sum of money all at once

Second, Fixed monthly payments

Third, Payments are included within the life of the mortgage

Fourth, Receive up to 75% LTV

Downsides of choosing a cash out refinance:

More paperwork 

Closing in 3-4 weeks

Interest on mortgage will increase

Is this the right financial move for you?

First and foremost, think about your goals. Next, take into consideration how much money you need. Finally determine how quickly you plan to repay the loan. While a cash out refinance is a good choice for some, there are other options that might save you money in the long run. 

Contact Us Today! 

Is a cash out refinance right for you? Contact us today to find out more, as well as learn about your different financing options.

Free Tools For You! 

Most importantly, we also have free tools available! Download the Loan Optimizer what financing would be best for your investment property.

Learn more!

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

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Have you used the Loan Cost Optimizer?

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Have you used the loan cost optimizer and do you know what it is? This is an excellent tool that will help you to find the best loan option for your investment needs. While taking out a loan will cost you money, it is important however that you see the impact it has on your life. This is the perfect tool to have in your real estate investment toolbox! 

Loans can be complicated! 

Loans are complicated, however there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping around. These include the interest rates, loan terms, as well as fees. The loan cost optimizer will not only help you keep things organized, but it will also allow you to compare everything side by side! 

Download this amazing tool for free today!

The loan cost optimizer can help you find the best loan for your deal. In fact, by understanding as well as comparing the total costs, you will be able to make smarter investment decisions. 

Contact Us Today! 

How can you maximize your profits as a real estate investor? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Loan Cost Optimizer to see which loan is best for your investment property.

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize your profits! 

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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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A Step-by-Step Guide to Qualifying for a DSCR Loan

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Getting a DSCR loan can feel a bit different from qualifying for a traditional loan. Instead of looking at your income, lenders focus on the property’s ability to pay for itself. Today we are going to walk through a Step-by-Step Guide to Qualifying for a DSCR Loan. This will help you check if a property qualifies. From understanding property income requirements to using a free DSCR calculator, this guide will walk you through each step to make sure you’re ready to get approved.

What Is a DSCR Loan?

A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan is a little different from traditional loans. It focuses on the income of the property, not your personal income. In short, it’s all about whether the property can cover its own expenses.

Step 1: Understand the Role of Property Income

For a DSCR loan, lenders look at the property’s income compared to its expenses. This includes the mortgage payment, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and other costs. Here’s the key: if the property’s income can cover these expenses, it may qualify.

For example, let’s say your property earns $1,800 in rent each month. You’ll want to compare this income against the costs. If the income covers these costs, you’re on the right track.

Step 2: Use the DSCR Calculator

The Cash Flow Company offers a free DSCR calculator tool that can help you see if a property qualifies. With this tool, you can run through real scenarios. Let’s walk through an example:

  • Property Value: $300,000
  • Loan Amount: $240,000 (80% LTV)
  • Interest Rate: 6.5%
  • Monthly Taxes and Insurance: $450
  • Monthly Rent: $1,800

When you plug in these numbers, you’ll see if the property’s DSCR is over 1, which is the qualifying ratio most lenders look for. If not, don’t worry! You can adjust the numbers.

Step 3: Adjust Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios if Needed

If your DSCR is below 1, consider adjusting your LTV. In our example, at 80% LTV, the property didn’t qualify because the DSCR was below 1. Dropping to 75% or even 70% might make a difference.

When we lowered the LTV to 75%, the loan amount went down to $225,000. At this point, the DSCR is close to or above 1, showing the property could now qualify.

Step 4: Use Realistic Rent Numbers

Be sure to use accurate rent numbers. An appraiser will check the rent for the neighborhood, so you can’t estimate higher rents than what’s realistic. Use a conservative approach to avoid surprises during the underwriting process.

Step 5: Consider Interest Rates and How They Affect DSCR

Interest rates impact DSCR. If rates go up, your DSCR might drop below 1, meaning the property may not qualify. Some lenders may allow a lower DSCR but at a higher interest rate, which affects profitability.

Final Check: Make Sure It’s a Good Investment

Once you have a DSCR above 1, check if the property will make money or cost you monthly. You want a DSCR loan to boost your investment, not drain it. Use the DSCR calculator tool to run numbers for every property.

Get the Free DSCR Calculator

Head to The Cash Flow Company website and download the free DSCR calculator. This tool is your first step to understanding if a property qualifies before reaching out to lenders.

Need Help?

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 find out more about: A Step-by-Step Guide to Qualifying for a DSCR Loan

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Maximize profits on rental properties

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It is crucial to maximize your profits on rental properties in order to be successful in real estate investing! First and foremost, it’s important to know your numbers! It all begins by calculating the monthly costs and subtracting them from the rental income. What exactly are the monthly costs? This includes the interest, taxes, insurance, HOA, and flood. By subtracting the monthly costs from the rental income, you can easily determine if the property cash flows. If so, it’s a keeper! If not, you may want to move on to another investment property. We know that numbers aren’t for everyone! We are happy to walk through everything before you purchase an investment property to ensure that it is a good deal for you! Run through the numbers today to maximize your profits tomorrow! 

Contact Us Today! 

How can you maximize your profits as a real estate investor? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Quick Deal Analyzer to see if your potential rental property is going to be a good investment!

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize profits on rental properties! 

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