Non-Traditional Loan Programs

A Non-traditional home loan program is a type of mortgage that doesn't conform to the standards and criteria set by government-sponsored enterprises like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These loans are often designed to cater to borrowers who may not meet the strict criteria of traditional loans but are still creditworthy and capable of repaying their mortgage.


Flexible Underwriting:These loan types have more flexibility in underwriting, allowing them to consider various factors beyond the typical credit score and debt-to-income ratios. This can be advantageous for self-employed individuals, retirees, or those with irregular income sources.

Alternative Documentation: Borrowers may provide alternative documentation to verify their income, such as bank statements, assets, or business financials, rather than the standard W-2 forms and tax returns required for other loans.

Higher Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratios: These loans often allow for higher DTI ratios, which means borrowers can qualify even if their monthly debt obligations are relatively high compared to their income.

Interest-Only or Deferred Payment Options: Some Non-Traditional loans offer interest-only payment options or allow borrowers to defer a portion of their payments, making homeownership more accessible in certain situations.

Non-Traditional Property Types: These loans can be used for unconventional property types, such as investment properties, vacation homes, or mixed-use properties, which may not qualify for conventional financing.

Jumbo Loans: These programs often include jumbo loans, which exceed the conforming loan limits set by GSEs, making them suitable for higher-priced properties.

Credit History Flexibility: Non-Traditional lenders may be more lenient regarding credit history, making it possible for borrowers with past credit issues to qualify.

Shorter Waiting Periods: Non-Traditional loans may have shorter waiting periods for borrowers who have experienced significant credit events like bankruptcies or foreclosures.


A bank statement mortgage is a type of home loan that allows borrowers to qualify for a mortgage based on their bank statements and financial history rather than traditional income verification methods, such as tax returns or pay stubs. These loans are sometimes referred to as "stated income" or "self-employed" mortgages. Here's an overview of bank statement mortgages, who they are best for, and their benefits:

Who is a Bank Statement Mortgage Best For?

Self-Employed Individuals: Bank statement mortgages are well-suited for self-employed individuals, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who may have variable income or difficulty documenting their income through traditional means.

Seasonal Workers: People with seasonal employment or irregular income patterns may find it easier to qualify for a mortgage using bank statements.

Investment Property Buyers: Investors looking to finance rental properties or real estate investments may benefit from bank statement mortgages, especially if their rental income is a significant part of their cash flow.

Benefits of a Bank Statement Mortgage

Flexibility: Bank statement mortgages offer flexibility in income verification, allowing borrowers with non-traditional income sources to qualify for a loan.

Quick Approval: Since these loans rely on bank statements and financial history, the approval process can be quicker than traditional loans that require extensive income documentation.

Higher Loan Amounts: Some bank statement mortgage programs may allow borrowers to qualify for higher loan amounts than they could with traditional loans, depending on their financial situation.

Tax Efficiency: For self-employed individuals who aim to reduce taxable income, a bank statement mortgage can be advantageous as it doesn't require the disclosure of detailed tax returns.

It's important to note that bank statement mortgages may come with higher interest rates and down payment requirements compared to conventional loans, as lenders perceive them as higher-risk due to the reduced emphasis on income verification. Additionally, borrowers should expect to provide several months of bank statements and other financial documentation to demonstrate their ability to repay the loan.


A DSCR (Debt-Service Coverage Ratio) loan, also known as a debt coverage ratio loan, is a type of commercial real estate loan used for income-generating properties such as apartment buildings, office complexes, or shopping centers. It focuses on the property's ability to generate sufficient income to cover its debt payments, including principal and interest. Here's an overview of DSCR loans, who they are best for, and their benefits:

Who is a DSCR Loan Best For?

  • Commercial Real Estate Investors: DSCR loans are primarily designed for real estate investors and developers looking to finance income-producing properties.
  • Income-Generating Properties: These loans are ideal for properties that generate rental income, as the loan's approval is based on the property's ability to cover its debt payments.
  • Investment Property Expansion: Investors seeking to expand their real estate portfolios or purchase larger income-generating properties can benefit from DSCR loans.

Benefits of a DSCR Loan:

  • Property-Centric Approval: DSCR loans primarily assess the income potential of the property rather than the borrower's personal income or credit history. This can be advantageous for investors with strong properties but limited personal income.
  • Larger Loan Amounts: DSCR loans may allow investors to qualify for larger loan amounts compared to traditional loans because they are based on the property's income potential.
  • Flexible Repayment Terms: Lenders may offer flexible repayment terms tailored to the property's cash flow, such as longer amortization periods.
  • Portfolio Growth: Investors can use DSCR loans to acquire additional income properties and expand their real estate investment portfolios.

It's important to note that DSCR loans typically require a higher down payment and may have slightly higher interest rates compared to residential mortgages. Additionally, lenders will still consider the borrower's creditworthiness and financial stability, even though the loan approval is primarily property-based.

Before pursuing a DSCR loan, real estate investors should conduct a thorough analysis of the property's income potential, expenses, and the local real estate market