Innovation Mortgage

Investors

Buying Your First Investment Property

March 2025 · 5 min read

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Real estate can be a powerful way to build wealth, and your first rental purchase is a big milestone. Investment property financing has its own rules that are smart to learn before you make an offer.

What to expect

  • Larger down payments, commonly 20% to 25%
  • Rates that are typically a bit higher than for a primary home
  • Reserve requirements, meaning savings left after closing
  • Rental income that can help you qualify on some programs

Loan options for investors

You can use a conventional loan and qualify on your personal income, or use a DSCR loan that qualifies based on the property's rental income instead of your tax returns. DSCR is popular for scaling a portfolio.

Run the numbers first

Before buying, estimate rent, expenses, vacancy, and the mortgage payment to confirm the property cash flows the way you expect.

Whether you qualify on personal income or the property's cash flow, we can structure the loan to help you grow your portfolio.

This article is general education, not financial, legal, or tax advice, and not a commitment to lend. Loan programs, rates, and requirements vary by lender, county, and borrower and can change. Talk with a licensed loan officer about your specific situation.

Have questions about your situation?

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