1. Property type
Acceptable: SFR, 2-4 unit, condos (warrantable), townhomes, and short-term rentals in most markets. Avoid: rural land, manufactured homes pre-1976, or properties with active code violations.
Investor toolkit · 9-point checklist
DSCR Qualifier Checklist
Run your investment property through the same nine checkpoints we use to pre-qualify a DSCR deal — before you ever submit an application.
2. Minimum DSCR ratio
Most lenders require DSCR ≥ 1.00. Best pricing at 1.20+.
Formula: gross monthly rent ÷ PITIA (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, association dues).
3. Down payment & reserves
- Purchase: 20–25% down minimum.
- Cash-out refinance: keep 70–75% LTV.
- Reserves: 3–6 months PITIA in liquid accounts.
4. Credit profile
- Middle FICO ≥ 680 (best pricing at 720+).
- No bankruptcy in the last 4 years.
- No mortgage lates in the last 12 months.
5. Rent documentation
Either an executed lease at market rent, OR an appraiser's 1007 rent schedule. Short-term rentals: 12 months of AirDNA / booking history.
6. Title vesting
LLC vesting is allowed (and often preferred). The LLC must be in good standing in its state of formation; an operating agreement and EIN are required at closing.
7. Appraisal & valuation
Full appraisal with rent comps. Be prepared for a 1–3% valuation gap in competitive markets.
8. Insurance
Landlord policy (DP-3) with rent-loss coverage. Coastal markets: confirm wind/flood availability before locking the rate.
9. Exit strategy
Define it before you apply: long-term hold, BRRRR refinance, or 1031 exchange. Each path shapes the term, prepayment penalty, and program selection.
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Investor toolkit
DSCR Qualifier Checklist
Run your property through the same 9-point checklist we use to pre-qualify DSCR deals — before you call.
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