Frequently asked
questions.
Find clear answers about qualification, products, process, and costs.
Qualifying
Can I qualify if my tax returns show a loss?+
Possibly. Non-QM paths such as bank statements, P&L only, 1099, DSCR, or asset depletion may document ability to repay without relying solely on tax returns.
I was declined by my bank. Can you still help?+
Yes. We review alternative documentation and equity-based programs that may fit income, cash flow, or assets not recognized by conventional bank underwriting.
What credit score do I need?+
It varies by product, loan amount, LTV, and compensating factors. Many non-QM programs begin around 620–680, with exceptions and additional requirements depending on the file.
Do I need to show income at all?+
Some programs may use rental cash flow or eligible assets instead of traditional employment income. Every loan remains subject to ability-to-repay and product-specific underwriting requirements.
What is the minimum equity I need to qualify?+
Requirements vary. HELOC and cash-out programs commonly require 20–30% or more equity remaining after the new loan. Reverse mortgage programs use separate age-based LTV structures.
Can real estate investors qualify based on rental income?+
Yes. DSCR programs may qualify an investment property primarily through its rental income and debt service coverage rather than personal income.
The Process
Does starting a review affect my credit score?+
The initial 30-second review does not include a credit pull. Any credit inquiry during a formal application occurs only after separate authorization.
How long does the process take?+
Many complete non-QM files close in about 14–21 days. Reverse mortgages may take around 30–45 days because of counseling and additional processing requirements.
What documents will I need?+
Documents depend on the selected program and may include identification, bank or asset statements, P&L, 1099s, property and rental information, insurance, and title records.
What happens after I start a review?+
A mortgage specialist reviews your information, identifies likely programs and documentation paths, and contacts you with a proposed structure and next steps before a formal application.
Products
What is the difference between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance?+
A HELOC is a revolving second-lien line that preserves the existing first mortgage. Cash-out refinance replaces the existing mortgage with a larger first-lien loan and delivers the difference at closing.
Do I have to refinance my existing mortgage to access my equity?+
No. A HELOC or other eligible second-lien structure may allow access to equity while leaving the existing first mortgage in place.
What is a reverse mortgage and who is it for?+
It is a loan allowing eligible older homeowners to access home equity without required monthly mortgage payments. Proprietary jumbo programs may begin at age 55; FHA HECMs begin at age 62.
What is a DSCR loan?+
A DSCR loan evaluates whether an investment property’s rental income can cover its debt payments, often without using the borrower’s personal employment income.
What is a bank statement loan?+
A bank statement loan calculates qualifying income from typically 12 or 24 months of personal or business deposits, often for self-employed borrowers.
What is an asset qualifier or asset depletion loan?+
It converts eligible liquid assets into a calculated monthly income stream and may serve high-net-worth borrowers with limited traditional monthly income.
Eligibility & Geography
What states do you lend in?+
Availability depends on licensing and individual lender programs. We confirm eligibility using the subject property address during the initial review.
What property types are eligible?+
Eligible property types may include primary homes, second homes, investment properties, single-family homes, condominiums, and certain multifamily properties, subject to program rules.
Can non-U.S. citizens qualify?+
Depending on the program, permanent residents, non-permanent residents, or foreign nationals may qualify. Documentation varies by residency status, assets, income, and property use.
Rates & Costs
Are non-QM loans more expensive than conventional loans?+
They can carry higher rates or costs because of alternative documentation and risk assessment. Actual pricing depends on credit, LTV, assets, product, and market conditions.
Can you tell me my rate before I apply?+
We may provide an initial range based on preliminary information, but a final rate requires a complete application, authorization, appraisal, and lender underwriting.
Investor & Renovation Capital
Do I need tax returns?+
No tax returns are required for eligible business-purpose programs. Other borrower and project documentation is still required, depending on the lender and program.
Can a first-time investor apply?+
Bring us the scenario. Experience requirements and financing terms depend on the program, property and proposed project.
Can my real estate agent or contractor help with the review?+
Yes. Investor-focused agents and general contractors can help provide acquisition details, the scope of work, budget and schedule so everyone starts with the same project information.
Can I use this financing for a home I plan to live in?+
Tell us at the start. An owner-occupied renovation needs a separate financing and eligibility review. The business-purpose investor terms on this page should not be assumed to apply. If you already own the home, explore HELOC and cash-out refinance options through Access Your Equity.
