CalculateRealEstateROI

BRRRR · Guide

DSCR Refinance Strategy

DSCR lenders unlock BRRRR refis without W-2 income — but their underwriting still has rules.

Reviewed by Keiron Brown, Founder & Editor, CalculateRealEstateROI · Educational estimates only — not investment, financial, tax, or legal advice

Key takeaways

  • DSCR 1.20+ required by most lenders.
  • 75% LTV typical ceiling.
  • Rate 75–125 bps over conventional.
  • Seasoning 0–90 days.
  • Closing in 21–30 days.

Core concepts

DSCR formula

Property NOI ÷ debt service. 1.20+ approved.

LTV options

65/70/75 — higher LTV = higher rate.

Seasoning

Some lenders 0-day; most 3–6 month.

Step-by-step framework

  1. 1Pre-qual 2 DSCR lenders.
  2. 2Document lease and rent.
  3. 3Order appraisal.
  4. 4Close.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not optimizing for DSCR (rent too low).
  • Choosing lender with onerous PPP.
  • Ignoring escrow setup.

Frequently asked questions

Min loan size?

Typically $100k.

Prepayment penalty?

1–5 year step-down standard.

Self-employed OK?

Yes — that's the point of DSCR.

Foreign national?

Yes — many DSCR lenders accept.

Action checklist

  • Two DSCR quotes.
  • Lease executed.
  • DSCR ≥ 1.20.
  • PPP terms reviewed.

More from BRRRR Investing