DSCR Loan vs Conventional Loan

Side-by-side comparison for real estate investors: rates, LTV, credit, documentation, and which one fits your portfolio strategy.

Quick Verdict

Choose DSCR if…

  • You're self-employed or 1099
  • You own 5+ rentals already
  • You want to borrow in an LLC
  • You're financing an Airbnb / STR
  • You need to close fast (under 21 days)

Choose Conventional if…

  • You have strong W-2 income
  • You own fewer than 10 properties
  • You want the lowest possible rate
  • The property will be your primary or 2nd home

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

FeatureDSCR LoanConventional Loan
Qualification basisProperty rental income (DSCR ≥ 1.0)Personal income, W-2s, tax returns, DTI
Income documentationNone required2 yrs W-2s, 2 yrs tax returns, pay stubs
Minimum credit score620+620+ (best rates 740+)
Max LTV (purchase)80%85% (investment) / 95% (primary)
Cash-out refi LTV80%70–75%
Number of propertiesUnlimitedCapped at 10 financed (Fannie Mae)
VestingIndividual, LLC, LP, TrustIndividual only
Short-term rentalsYes — STR income acceptedRare; underwritten as 2nd home
Self-employed borrowersEasy — income irrelevantDifficult — requires 2 yrs tax returns
Close time13–21 days30–45 days
Typical rate (Nov 2025)Mid-7% rangeLow-7% range

Not sure which fits your deal? Run the numbers first.

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