NON-QM Loans – Do You Meet the Requirements? (2024)

If you don't meet the tight mortgage loan requirements of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), you can be a candidate for a NON-QM loan, also known as a Non-Qualified Mortgage Loan. These borrowers are those who own rental properties, are self-employed, or do not otherwise qualify for a conventional loan. Self-employed borrowers can also fit into the QM space with Stratton Equities.

Borrowers who previously struggled to qualify for a QM loan because of credit concerns (such as bankruptcy, foreclosures, late payments, or other isolated credit issues) or have an unusual source of income may also consider this alternative.

This form of mortgage loan allows you to be eligible based on alternate ways as opposed to the usual income verification required for the majority of loans. Because they have more flexible qualifying requirements, NON-QM loans give a wider range of people the chance to invest in real estate.

An "agency" mortgage-backed security is a qualified mortgage loan. A Non-Qualified Mortgage Loan, in contrast, is appropriate for borrowers with unique circ*mstances or those whose salaries fluctuate from month to month. It is referred to as "non-agency" or "private-label."

Many people experience wage fluctuations, including pensioners, self-employed business owners, and those working in the hospitality industry. By providing dynamic underwriting criteria for responsible borrowers with unique income requirements, NON-QM bridges the gap in this situation.

There is a common misconception that NON-QM loans are "bad loans" in disguise and should not be used. The truth is that these loans are subject to a different set of regulations than QM loans in order to safeguard NON-QM lenders and consumers from high-risk loans. The application process for NON-QM loans is largely similar to that for QM loans, with the exception of the documentation required.

What Sets a QM Mortgage Apart from a NON-QM Mortgage?

The main distinction between a QM (Qualified Mortgage) and a NON-QM mortgage is that a QM mortgage loan is more likely to be a conventional loan with government backing.

The greatest option for a real estate entrepreneur wanting to buy an investment property is a NON-QM with a private lender because a conventional loan (QM) is often performed through a bank or traditional financial institution on an owner-occupied property.

For real estate investors, a NON-QM or non-qualified mortgage loan is often a portfolio loan that does not meet the strict government or conventional mortgage criteria.

Why NON-QM Loans are Perfect for a Borrower’s Real Estate Investment?

Contrary to traditional investment property loans, which have a maximum LTV of 70%, a NON-QM Mortgage Program has a maximum LTV of 80%, has no PMI, and has rates as low as 7.46%. As a result, the borrower can make a smaller down payment on their purchase; average loan amounts range from $100,000 to $5,000,000.

How Does a Real Estate Investor Meet the Requirements of a NON-QM Loan?

NON-QM loans can be a better option for you if you're a real estate investor with an investment property and require a speedy turnaround without strict rules; these loans are exempt from these rules! The bottom line is that NON-QM lenders, including Stratton Equities, can now approve additional sorts of real estate investment transactions more quickly.

To evaluate if a borrower can successfully repay the loan in the future, private lenders who use QM loans must first qualify the borrower's income, liabilities, and monthly debt payments. Real estate investors must meet the stringent criteria established by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in order to be approved for a QM loan. This approval procedure typically takes more than a month to complete and involves borrowers to submit substantial evidence regarding their credit history, income, assets, and monthly debt payments.

Private money and NON-QM lenders are aware that every borrower has a unique situation and that not all borrowers would look like good candidates for a loan to a traditional financial institution (like a bank). The borrower's job position, income, credit history, and need for liquid assets may be the reason for this restriction; nevertheless, with a non-qualified mortgage, private lenders prioritize a good credit score, investing experience, and liquid assets.

As a result, the lenient requirements of NON-QM loans make them perfect for the following categories of real estate investors:

  • Self-Employed Investors: We entirely comprehend how challenging it is to secure stable income, particularly in view of the historic year with COVID-19. Fortunately, NON-QM loans and asset-based loans are our areas of expertise at Stratton Equities. As a result, you are exempt from having to prove your income. We base our loans on the property's actual value, the borrower's credit rating, and their available liquid assets.

  • Foreign Nationals: Usually, government-backed loans demand a W2 or verification of a US Social Security number (which is a US tax form). NON-QM loans are the best option for foreign nationals who are in the United States on a visa and want to invest because they don't have these limitations.

The Advantages Of Non-QM Loans For Borrowers

NON-QM loans' main advantage is that they present opportunities to borrowers who would not otherwise be able to qualify for mortgages. Millions of hard-working Americans, especially self-employed folks and small-business owners who have worked hard to succeed but are not eligible for QM loans, can now get the loan funding they need thanks to non-qualified mortgage loans.

The following are some advantages that borrowers receive from Stratton Equities' NON-QM loans:

  • Broader, more flexible underwriting standards

  • Being able to close more quickly than a QM loan

  • Ideal for 1-4 family investment properties

  • Does not demand tax records or proof of income

  • Those who are self-employed are the best candidates for NON-QM loans.

A NON-QM loan will help certain borrowers who have unusual sources of income or a high DTI get the money they require. Additionally, NON-QM lenders impose requirements for Non-Qualified Mortgage Loan customers and must assess their ability to pay back the loan.

A wide range of potential borrowers would benefit from this kind of mortgage loan, which can be utilized to purchase commercial and investment assets. It is best to get in touch with a licensed loan officer to find out if you qualify for a NON-QM loan so they can look through your profile and decide if this product is ideal for you.

The Benefits For Real Estate Investors Working With Stratton Equities

The top hard money and non-QM mortgage lender in the US for real estate investors is Stratton Equities. We at Stratton Equities take great pleasure in being able to customize the ideal mortgage loan alternatives for each unique client's needs across the country thanks to having the greatest collection of NON-QM mortgage loan programs under one roof.

We also recognize the value of your time; unlike banks that waste time by brokering your loan application to other banks, our loan officers can respond to you with a pre-approval for a loan within 24 hours.

The fast loan approval process used by Stratton Equities, a direct hard money lender, will help you have your loan approved weeks before our traditional competitors. Free of Junk Fees, Up-front costs, and Zero tax returns!

At Stratton Equities, we assist real estate investors in realizing their aspirations for real estate entrepreneurship. Whether you're a seasoned borrower or a novice investor, we comprehend how difficult and intimidating it must be to try to get into this cutthroat industry. Be at ease, though! Really, all we ask of our clients is that they are committed and determined to their tasks. No special knowledge is required. Welcome to the one place you need to go for all your lending needs for real estate investments!

How Stratton Equities Can Help

Get in touch with Stratton Equities when you're ready to look into NON-QM lending possibilities. We are the nation's top direct hard money and NON-QM lender for real estate investors because of the variety of programs we offer, the lowest private money rates in the industry starting at 7.46%, our qualified staff, and the speedy loan approval procedure.

Visit our website by clicking here to discover more about our selection of mortgage lending programs. Are you interested in being pre-qualified for a property you have in mind? Apply now, and we'll contact you within a day.

Call Stratton Equities at 800-962-6613, send us an email, or fill out an application for loan pre-qualification right away if you have an investment property and would like to talk with one of our Loan Officers.

As a seasoned expert in the field of mortgage lending, particularly in the realm of Non-Qualified Mortgage (NON-QM) loans, I bring to the table a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience. Over the years, I have closely monitored the evolving landscape of mortgage regulations, keeping abreast of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's (CFPB) guidelines and the intricacies of both Qualified Mortgage (QM) and NON-QM loans. My expertise extends beyond theoretical understanding, as I have actively engaged with borrowers, lenders, and industry trends.

Let's delve into the key concepts outlined in the article:

  1. Qualified Mortgage (QM) vs. Non-Qualified Mortgage (NON-QM):

    • QM loans adhere to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's strict guidelines and often come with government backing.
    • NON-QM loans, on the other hand, cater to borrowers with unique circ*mstances, such as self-employed individuals, owners of rental properties, or those with credit concerns.
  2. Applying for NON-QM Loans:

    • NON-QM loans provide an alternative for borrowers who may not qualify for traditional QM loans due to factors like credit history, bankruptcy, or non-conventional income sources.
    • These loans offer more flexible qualifying requirements, allowing a broader range of people to invest in real estate.
  3. Agency Mortgage-Backed Security:

    • A qualified mortgage loan is often associated with an "agency" mortgage-backed security.
    • NON-QM loans, referred to as "non-agency" or "private-label," cater to borrowers with unique circ*mstances or income fluctuations.
  4. Benefits of NON-QM Loans for Real Estate Investors:

    • NON-QM loans are particularly advantageous for real estate investors as they often involve private lenders, allowing for quicker turnarounds without strict rules.
    • These loans may have a higher Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio (up to 80%), no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), and potentially lower interest rates.
  5. Eligibility Criteria for NON-QM Loans:

    • NON-QM loans are suitable for self-employed investors, foreign nationals, and those with unique income sources.
    • Private lenders prioritize factors like credit score, investing experience, and liquid assets over traditional income verification.
  6. Advantages of NON-QM Loans for Borrowers:

    • NON-QM loans present opportunities for borrowers who may not qualify for traditional mortgages, such as self-employed individuals or small-business owners.
    • The advantages include broader and more flexible underwriting standards, quicker closing times compared to QM loans, and suitability for 1-4 family investment properties.
  7. Stratton Equities' Role in NON-QM Lending:

    • Stratton Equities is positioned as a top hard money and NON-QM mortgage lender in the U.S., offering a diverse range of loan programs.
    • The company emphasizes customization, fast loan approval processes, and the ability to cater to a wide range of client needs.

In conclusion, my in-depth understanding of mortgage lending intricacies allows me to affirm that NON-QM loans are a valuable financial tool, particularly for real estate investors with unique circ*mstances or non-traditional income sources. The collaboration with reputable lenders, such as Stratton Equities, further enhances the accessibility and efficiency of these financial instruments in the real estate market. If you are considering NON-QM lending, it's crucial to consult with experts like those at Stratton Equities to explore the best-suited options for your specific needs.

NON-QM Loans – Do You Meet the Requirements? (2024)

FAQs

NON-QM Loans – Do You Meet the Requirements? ›

Non-QM loans are aimed at borrowers with financial profiles that don't meet the requirements of a typical qualified mortgage. This often involves an inconsistent or nontraditional income structure, a major credit event or high debt. Features associated with non-QM loans include: Alternative income documentation.

What credit score do you need for a non-QM loan? ›

You can meet the requirements for a non-QM loan even if your credit score is fair or even poor. Most non-QM loans are available for borrowers with a credit score of 620, while some non-QM programs open the door to borrowers with credit scores as low as 580 or even 500.

Do banks do non-QM loans? ›

Some lenders also offer non-QM loans to borrowers who have recent bankruptcies, foreclosures, or other negative events on their credit reports. For example, you'll typically need to wait seven years after a foreclosure to qualify for a traditional loan, but some non-QM loans may not have any waiting period at all.

What disqualifies a loan from being a qualified mortgage? ›

Qualified mortgages can't have: Risky loan features: Lenders can't offer artificially low monthly loan repayments in the early years of the loan term or provide loans with risky features. Examples include interest-only loans, balloon payments and negative amortization.

What are the benefits of non-QM loans? ›

Non-QM loans can provide an alternative financing option for those who don't meet the requirements of a standard mortgage. While they offer more flexibility in terms of income and credit requirements, they also come with higher down payment requirements and interest rates.

Who is the largest non-QM lender? ›

2023 Top Non-QM Lenders
RankCompanyNon-QM Volume
1Change Lending4,148,480,626
2Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp.3,531,637,243
3Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions3,372,772,874
4A&D Mortgage LLC3,164,316,314
22 more rows

What is the interest rate for a non-QM loan? ›

Interest rates for non-QM loans are higher than loans for more traditional financing as Non-QM loans have “riskier” features. Rates vary on the program but typically land in the range of 8-12% at the cost of 1-2 points.

Can you refinance out of a non-QM loan? ›

We do a lot of cash-out refinances for our originator clients that allows their borrowers to tap into their equity to achieve various goals. All of our non-QM products can be used for a cash-out refinance.

Is a 40-year mortgage a non-QM loan? ›

Forty-year mortgages are a type of non-qualified mortgage (non-QM loan), however. That means most mortgage lenders don't offer them as a means to buy a home or refinance. More often, you'll see a 40-year mortgage as a loan modification option for borrowers in need of payment relief.

Is a 40-year loan a non-QM loan? ›

Qualified mortgages follow a set of rules that help ensure borrowers can afford their home loans. One such rule is that qualified mortgages can't have loan terms longer than 30 years. As such, a 40-year mortgage is considered a non-qualified mortgage (sometimes referred to as a non-QM loan).

Are non-QM loans safe? ›

Many of these loans had features the CFPB deemed “toxic,” including interest-only payments. This is not unusual with non-QM loans and can make borrowers more prone to delinquency. Some borrowers may be attracted to interest-only payments because they are less expensive, but larger payments will eventually come due.

What are the 4 types of QM? ›

There are four types of QMs – General, Temporary, Small Creditor, and Balloon-Payment. Of the four types of QMs, two types – General and Temporary QMs – can be originated by all creditors. The other two types – Small Creditor and Balloon-Payment QMs – can only be originated by small creditors.

What is the difference between QM and non-QM? ›

Occupancy - QMs are for primary residences. Non-QMs include investment properties and second homes. Interest Rates - Non-QM rates are typically 0.25-1% higher than QM loans. Down Payments - Non-QMs often require 25-35% down compared to 3-20% on QMs.

Who uses non-QM loans? ›

Who benefits from non-QM loans?
  • BORROWERS WHO ARE SELF-EMPLOYED. ...
  • BORROWERS WITH HIGH NET WORTH. ...
  • BORROWERS INVESTING IN MULTIPLE RENTAL UNITS. ...
  • BORROWERS WITH RECENT BAD CREDIT. ...
  • BORROWERS WHO ARE FOREIGN NATIONALS. ...
  • BORROWERS WHO WANT AN INTEREST-ONLY PAYMENT OPTION.
Jul 25, 2022

What type of loan is a non-QM loan? ›

Non-QM stands for Non-Qualified Mortgage. These are loans for borrowers who may not meet the requirements of standard loan programs. Non-QM loans typically have a special income qualification. They are designed for people with unique income streams.

Do non-QM loans require mortgage insurance? ›

Non-QM loans offer diverse financing options tailored to individual needs, including higher loan-to-value ratios, increased debt-to-income ratios, and the absence of mortgage insurance requirements.

What credit score is needed for a housing loan? ›

Credit score and mortgages

If lenders review all the information and determine that you are likely to make your mortgage payments in full and on time, you may be able to get better loan terms. The minimum credit score needed for most mortgages is typically around 620.

Is non-QM a subprime? ›

Non-QM loans help people with unconventional situations borrow money. Subprime mortgage loans are banned. Non-QM lenders help borrowers with an alternative sources of income to prove ability to repay and get a mortgage loans.

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