Free DSCR Deal Scorecard

Rent divided by PITIA (principal, interest, taxes, insurance, dues). Most DSCR programs look for around 1.00-1.25+, though some allow lower with a bigger down payment or extra reserves.

Max leverage varies by lender, property type, and loan purpose. Purchases typically allow more than cash-out refis. Know your credit score(s) going in — stronger credit generally means better pricing and higher leverage.

Plan to show liquid reserves left in the bank after closing — commonly several months of PITIA. Exact requirements depend on the program, property count, and loan size.

Tenant-occupied with a signed lease? That can support your DSCR calculation. Vacant or buying it now? The appraiser completes a Form 1007 to establish market rent instead. Know which one applies before you gather docs.

Airbnb/VRBO income isn't treated like a standard lease. Many programs require a trailing rental history or apply a discount to projected STR income before it counts toward your ratio. Confirm how it'll be documented before you count on it.

Rent-to-PITIA math only holds up if PITIA is accurate. Watch for flood-zone determinations, higher landlord premiums, HOA dues, and post-purchase tax reassessments — get a real insurance quote before you count on an estimate.