Financing

How short-term rental purchases actually get financed

Most qualified buyers are stopped by the down payment and the debt-to-income ratio, not by the mortgage rate. These guides cover both, plus what the purchase actually costs beyond the price.

DSCR Loans

Qualify on the property's income rather than your debt-to-income ratio.

Conventional vs DSCR

Cheaper money with harder qualification, versus easier qualification at a price.

Frequently asked questions

What is the easiest way to finance a short-term rental?

For a first or second property, conventional investment financing is usually cheapest if you qualify. Past that, a DSCR loan qualifying on the property's income rather than your debt-to-income ratio is the standard route, at a rate premium of roughly one to two points.

How much do I need to buy a short-term rental?

Beyond the 20 to 25% down payment, budget 2 to 4% for closing costs, $25,000 to $90,000 for furnishing depending on size and tier, a few thousand for photography and supplies, and six months of carry as a reserve.

Can I use my primary residence equity?

Yes, and a HELOC is the most common source for a first purchase. Because the debt is secured against your home, size the draw so a poor first year for the rental is survivable from income alone.

Tell us what you are trying to do

We screen roughly a thousand deals a week and reject about 98%. A thirty minute call tells you whether this fits.

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