Below 1.0 DSCR? We Say Yes.

Most lenders require a 1.0 DSCR minimum. We have programs down to 0.75 — and even no-ratio options for deals that don't fit the box. No tax returns, 15% down, 620 FICO*.

*Borrowers with credit scores between 620-659 may be subject to additional LTV restrictions and higher down payment requirements.

<1.0

DSCR OK

2 Wks

To Close

40+

Programs

100%

Appraisal Transfers

Tanner Zac

Down to 0.75 DSCR

No-Ratio Programs

No Tax Returns

Why Your DSCR Might Be Below 1.0

High HOA or Insurance

Condo fees, flood insurance, or high property taxes can push your ratio below 1.0 even with strong rental income.

Vacant or Value-Add Property

Purchasing a vacant property or one that needs renovation means no current rental income — but the deal still makes sense long-term.

Short-Term Rental Seasonality

STR income can fluctuate by season. A low period might drop your DSCR on paper even though annual income is strong.

Market Rent vs. Actual Rent

If your current tenant is paying below market rate, the appraised DSCR might be lower than what you'll actually earn.

We've Closed These Deals

“My DSCR was 0.92 and everyone said no. Zac found a way to make it work with a slightly higher down payment. Closed in 14 days.”

David K.

Buy & Hold - Austin, TX

“I was buying a property that cash-flows but not on paper yet (vacant). Tanner found a no-ratio program that worked perfectly.”

Angela S.

Value-Add Investor - Atlanta, GA

“My ratio was 0.85 because of high HOA fees. Two lenders turned me down. These guys got it done — no income docs needed.”

Ryan C.

Condo Investor - San Diego, CA

How We Make Low DSCR Work

Tell Us Your Scenario

Answer 3 quick questions. We need to understand your property, rental income, and target DSCR to find the right program.

We Find a Program That Fits

Not all lenders are the same. We shop 40+ programs — some accept 0.75 DSCR, others offer no-ratio options entirely.

Close in as Little as 2 Weeks

Higher down payment or credit score can offset low DSCR. We structure the deal so it works for both you and the lender.

Free Quote in 60 Seconds

Get Your DSCR Loan Quote

3 quick questions + your contact info

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What's your loan purpose?

Select the option that best fits your needs

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Low DSCR Loan FAQ

What's the lowest DSCR ratio you accept?

We have programs that go as low as 0.75 DSCR. For ratios between 0.75 and 1.0, you'll typically need a credit score of 680+ and a down payment of 25% or more. We also offer no-ratio programs where the DSCR isn't calculated at all.

What is a no-ratio DSCR loan?

A no-ratio program means the lender doesn't calculate or require a specific DSCR ratio. This is useful for vacant properties, properties under renovation, or deals where the rental income is hard to document. Requirements are typically stricter on credit and down payment.

Why do most lenders require 1.0 DSCR minimum?

A 1.0 DSCR means the rental income exactly covers the mortgage payment. Below 1.0 means negative cash flow on paper. Most lenders see this as too risky, but specialized programs mitigate the risk with higher down payments and credit requirements.

Can I improve my DSCR before applying?

Yes. Common strategies include: increasing rent (especially if below market), reducing expenses (shop insurance, contest property taxes), making a larger down payment to reduce the loan amount, or buying down the rate to lower the monthly payment.

What if my DSCR is below 0.75?

For ratios below 0.75, a no-ratio program is typically the best path. These require stronger compensating factors — usually 30%+ down and 700+ credit. We can also explore interest-only options that lower the payment and improve the effective ratio.

Told “no” by another lender?

Our low-DSCR specialists are available Mon-Fri 8am-6pm MST

Call Tanner: (480) 420-4918 Call Zac: (480) 406-2016

NMLS #2090424 & #2111496 | Cornerstone First Mortgage | Equal Housing Lender

EHO

©2026 Cornerstone First Mortgage, LLC supports Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS ID# 173855. This is informational only and is not an offer of credit or commitment to lend. Interest rates, products, and loan terms are subject to change without notice. DSCR loans are for investment properties only, not primary residences.

*Borrowers with credit scores between 620-659 may be subject to additional LTV restrictions and higher down payment requirements.