
Non QM mortgage brokers can be a game-changer for home buyers who don't fit traditional lending criteria.
They specialize in connecting borrowers with alternative lenders that offer more flexible underwriting guidelines.
Non QM mortgage brokers often work with private lenders, community banks, and credit unions that have more lenient requirements.
These lenders may consider factors like income from self-employment, rental income, or even gift funds when evaluating loan applications.
What Are Non-QM Mortgages?
Non-QM mortgages are a type of loan that doesn't follow the strict guidelines set by government-backed mortgage programs like FHA and VA.
They often cater to borrowers who can't qualify for traditional mortgages due to factors like self-employment income or recent credit issues.
Non-QM mortgages can have more flexible credit score requirements, sometimes as low as 500.
These loans typically require a larger down payment, often 20-30% of the purchase price.
Non-QM mortgage brokers can help borrowers navigate the application process and find the right loan for their situation.
These loans often have higher interest rates compared to traditional mortgages to compensate for the increased risk.
Non-QM mortgage brokers can provide valuable guidance to borrowers who are unsure about their options or how to apply for a non-QM mortgage.
Who Qualifies for Non-QM Mortgages?
If you have an inconsistent income, you might qualify for a non-QM mortgage. This type of loan is designed for individuals with non-traditional income sources, such as freelancers.
Non-QM mortgages cater to individuals with incomes that don't meet the traditional qualifications of government-backed loans, like VA, FHA, and USDA loans. These loans are less risky and have more stringent requirements.
Freelancers, contract workers, and small business owners often benefit from non-QM mortgages, as they can provide a more flexible application process.
Who Qualifies for Non-QM Mortgages?
Non-qualifying loans cater to individuals with inconsistent incomes like freelancers, contract workers, and small business owners.
These individuals often struggle to meet traditional loan requirements, which typically demand stable income and employment history.
Freelancers and contract workers may have varying monthly income, making it difficult to qualify for a traditional mortgage.
Small business owners may also experience fluctuations in income, depending on the success of their business.
Non-qualifying loans offer a more flexible application process, which can be a game-changer for these types of borrowers.
Foreign National
As a foreign national, you're not alone in seeking homeownership in the United States. Non-QM loans offer a path to achieving this dream.
Foreign nationals can secure financing with a minimum 25% down payment, making it a viable option for those with sufficient funds. Non-QM loans allow for asset utilization as eligible documentation, which can be a smoother process for those with assets but a limited credit history.
Non-QM Mortgage Options
Non-QM mortgage options are designed to cater to borrowers who don't fit the traditional mold. These loans employ non-standard mortgage terms to help borrowers qualify, including loan terms longer than 30 years, interest-only loans, and higher debt ratios.
Some popular non-QM loan options include bank statement loans, which use a 12-month average of business-related deposits to qualify self-employed borrowers. Stated income loans allow borrowers to declare their income without traditional methods, and investor cash flow loans operate on an interest-only basis, ideal for those who want to manage their cash flow.
Non-QM loans can be used for primary residence mortgages, refinance loans, cash-out refinances, and investment property loans. They also offer flexible underwriting criteria, faster approval times, and higher borrowing limits for those looking to purchase more expensive properties or access more substantial cash.
Here are some lenders that offer non-QM mortgage options:
- North American Savings Bank offers 11 types of non-QM loans, including beneficial options for self-employed borrowers and investors.
- CrossCountry Mortgage offers home loans based on bank statements, loans using assets to qualify, and loans for foreign nationals.
Alternative Documentation
Alternative Documentation Loans offer flexibility for borrowers who don't fit traditional mortgage guidelines. They can be a game-changer for self-employed individuals who struggle to prove income through conventional means.
Bank statement loans, for instance, use monthly bank statements to prove income, making them ideal for self-employed borrowers. These loans are an alternative to traditional documentation, which requires tax returns, W2s, and pay stubs.
Non-QM loans take a more holistic approach to an applicant's financial situation, factoring in credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and other financial metrics. This means that income verification may not be necessary in some cases.
Some lenders, like North American Savings Bank, offer a range of non-QM loan options, including beneficial options for self-employed borrowers and those with past financial mistakes on their records. These lenders offer flexible underwriting criteria, which can cater to borrowers who don't qualify for traditional mortgage guidelines.
Here are some key benefits of alternative documentation loans:
- Faster approval times
- Higher borrowing limits for more expensive properties
- More options for proving income, making it easier for self-employed individuals to secure financing
- Lower interest rates in some cases
However, it's essential to note that non-QM loans are considered higher risk, which may result in higher interest rates. Borrowers should carefully consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
To apply for a non-QM loan, you'll need to connect with a lender, collect required documents, submit your application, and attain pre-approval. With pre-approval in hand, you can begin searching for a property that suits your needs and budget.
DSCR for Investors
DSCR loans, also known as investor cash flow loans, are a non-QM loan option that evaluates eligibility based on the fair market rent value equal to or greater than the total housing payment.
With no income or job requirements, these loans are ideal for seasoned investors.
A 20% down payment is all you need to qualify for a DSCR loan.
These loans are designed to provide efficiency and flexibility for investors seeking to finance rental properties.
You'll only need to make payments on the loan's interest during the initial years, making it a great option for managing cash flow.
Alternatives to Home
If you're exploring non-QM mortgage options, it's essential to know that you have alternatives to consider.
Conventional loans are one of the most popular alternatives to non-QM home loans. They have more lenient credit score requirements and offer a range of loan options.
FHA loans are another viable option, offering more flexible credit requirements and lower down payments compared to conventional loans.
USDA loans are designed for borrowers purchasing homes in rural areas, offering favorable terms and lower mortgage rates.
VA loans are exclusively for veterans, active-duty military personnel, and surviving spouses, offering zero down payment options and lower interest rates.
Non-QM Mortgage Lenders
Non-QM mortgage lenders are not as hard to find as you might think, but it's essential to choose a legitimate lender with a reputation for handling complex loan programs. Direct Mortgage Loans offers a variety of nonqualifying loans and expert loan officers well-versed in these programs.
Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions is a nationwide lender that specializes in non-QM lending, offering four main non-QM options with competitive rates. North American Savings Bank (NASB) has closed on 100,000 mortgages since 2010, accounting for $30 billion loaned, and advertises 11 types of non-QM loans. CrossCountry Mortgage is a top home lender in the U.S., offering home loans based on bank statements, loans using assets to qualify, and loans for investors.
Here are some key features of top non-QM lenders:
Best Lenders
If you're looking for non-QM mortgage lenders, you're in luck - they're not as hard to find as you might think. Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions is a top choice for flexible mortgage options, making them a great fit for borrowers with unique financial situations.
Here are some top lenders to consider:
- Best for Flexible Mortgage Options: Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions
- Best for Refinancing: New American Funding
- Best for Non-Conforming Loans: North American Savings Bank
- Best for Self-Employed Borrowers: CrossCountry Mortgage
- Optimal for Online Mortgages: Rocket Mortgage (formerly Quicken Loans)
These lenders have extensive experience issuing non-QM loans, and are well-equipped to handle the complexities of these loans. Don't be afraid to shop around and find the lender that best fits your needs.
Carrington Services
Carrington Services offers a flexible mortgage option through its Carrington Flexible Advantage Series. This program has a fixed rate and flexible requirements, making it ideal for self-employed borrowers, freelancers, and those working to rebuild their credit.
Credit scores of 550 and above are accepted, thanks to Carrington's lenient policies. This means that borrowers with lower credit scores may still qualify for a mortgage.
The Carrington Flexible Advantage Series has a maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of 90%. This means that borrowers can finance up to 90% of the purchase price of the property.
Here are the key features of the Carrington Flexible Advantage Series:
The maximum loan amount for this program is $2.5 million, making it a viable option for borrowers who need a larger mortgage.
Deephaven
Deephaven Mortgage is a standout in the non-QM mortgage lender space, ranking first among the top ten lenders.
They're not just a non-QM lender, but a pro-borrower lender, which means they consider more than just credit scores when evaluating borrowers.
Deephaven takes into account your personal and business bank statements and asset utilization to give you a fair shot at securing a mortgage.
This approach makes real estate more accessible to individuals from all walks of life, removing the difficulties that often come with traditional mortgage applications.
Deephaven's focus on accessibility is a breath of fresh air in the mortgage industry, where many lenders still rely on outdated credit scoring models.
Non-QM Mortgage Considerations
Non-QM mortgage considerations are crucial to understand before pursuing this type of loan. A reputable lender with experience dealing with non-QM loans is essential to ensure a smooth process.
Lender's reputation is vital, as non-QM loans don't fall under governmental regulation by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. This means you need to research and choose a lender that has a good track record with non-QM loans.
Different terms apply to non-QM loans, and it's essential to review each lender's terms before choosing where to finance your loan. This will help you understand the rates, loan durations, and fees associated with the loan.
Non-QM loans can be riskier for both the borrower and the lender. While they offer flexibility, they may come with higher interest rates or other terms compared to traditional mortgages.
Here are some key things to consider when determining whether a non-QM loan is right for you:
- Lender's reputation
- Different terms
- Buying power
It's essential to weigh the pros and cons of non-QM loans before making a decision. While they offer flexibility and accessibility, they may come with higher costs, stricter repayment terms, and a higher risk of default if not managed carefully.
FAQs
Non-QM mortgage brokers can help borrowers who don't meet traditional qualification standards, such as self-employed individuals or those with non-traditional income.
They often work with alternative lenders who offer more flexible underwriting guidelines.
Borrowers with non-traditional income, such as freelancers or independent contractors, may qualify for non-QM loans.
These loans can also be a good option for borrowers who have experienced a recent income drop or have gaps in their employment history.
Non-QM mortgage brokers typically charge higher fees than traditional mortgage brokers.
They may also require more documentation from borrowers, such as tax returns or business financial statements.
Borrowers should carefully review the terms and conditions of a non-QM loan before signing, as they can be more complex than traditional loans.
Non-QM loans often have higher interest rates than traditional loans, which can increase the borrower's monthly payments.
Borrowers should also be aware that non-QM loans may have prepayment penalties, which can limit their ability to refinance or sell the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do you need for a non QM loan?
For a non-QM loan, you'll need a credit score of at least 620. However, the credit score requirements may vary depending on the lender and loan terms.
Sources
- https://www.ascensionmortgagebrokers.com/loan-programs/non-qm-loans
- https://fbchomeloans.com/non-qm-loans-for-non-traditional-borrowers/
- https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-non-qm-mortgage-lenders
- https://www.besmartee.com/blog/top-non-qm-lenders/
- https://www.directmortgageloans.com/mortgage/what-are-non-qm-loans-exploring-mortgage-alternatives/
Featured Images: pexels.com