First-Time Home Buyers
Buying your first home is a big step—and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. As a first-time homebuyer, you might be wondering where to start, how much you can afford, or what kind of mortgage is right for you. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. With the right guidance and a little preparation, you can feel confident every step of the way. From understanding your loan options to planning for upfront costs, you’ll be in a strong position to make smart, informed decisions that help you find the right home—and enjoy the process along the way.
DSCR (Debt-Service Coverage Ratio) loans are an excellent option if you're a real estate investor looking to qualify based on a property’s income rather than your personal income. Instead of using tax returns, W-2s, or pay stubs, these investor loans focus on the cash flow of the investment property itself. Lenders calculate the DSCR by dividing the gross rental income by the total monthly debt payments—a ratio of 1.0 means the property breaks even, while anything above that shows positive cash flow. With DSCR loans, you typically need a minimum ratio of 1.0, a down payment of 20–25%, and a credit score of at least 620–680. You can finance loan amounts up to $5 million, and eligible income-producing properties include single-family homes, condos, townhomes, and 2–4 unit properties. While the interest rates are slightly higher and some loans may include prepayment penalties, the big advantages are no personal income verification, faster approvals, and no limit on how many rental properties you can finance. If you're self-employed or growing your real estate portfolio, a DSCR loan could be the flexible financing solution you need to scale your investments with confidence.
Sometimes your financial profile doesn’t fit the traditional mold, especially if you have irregular income or significant tax deductions. Non-QM loans offer the flexibility to qualify based on alternative documentation, such as profit and loss statements, assets, or rental income. These loans are specifically designed for those who don’t meet the strict criteria of conventional mortgages.
Renovation loans can be a game changer if you're looking to buy a fixer-upper or breathe new life into your current home. Instead of taking out separate loans or dipping into your savings, a renovation loan lets you roll the cost of improvements into your mortgage—so you finance everything with one monthly payment. Whether you’re dreaming of a modern kitchen, updated bathrooms, or energy-efficient upgrades, this type of loan gives you the flexibility to create the space you truly want while potentially increasing your home’s value and comfort at the same time.