Pre-qualify

Bank statement program.

For self-employed borrowers whose tax returns do not tell the whole story. Income documented through bank statements, with the trade offs explained before anything is offered.

Bank statement program, at a glance.

What it is

A mortgage that calculates your income from deposits into your personal or business accounts over a period of months, instead of from tax returns.

Often used for

Business owners, contractors and freelancers whose deductions lower their taxable income below what they actually earn.

Keep in mind

These loans usually ask for more down and price higher than a standard mortgage. Your loan officer shows you the difference.

How it works

  1. 1

    Tell us about your business and the home

    How long you have been self-employed, the accounts you use and the home you have in mind.

  2. 2

    Your loan officer calculates your income

    From your statements, and compares the program against a conventional loan if your returns support one.

  3. 3

    You choose, then we close

    Underwriting on the statements, appraisal and closing. Support continues after.

Who it tends to fit.

Self-employed

You own a business, contract or freelance.

Write-offs that lower taxable income

Your returns show less than you earn.

Consistent deposits

Your accounts show a steady pattern over a year or two.

Savings for the down payment

You have what these programs ask for.

If your tax returns support the loan on their own, a conventional mortgage may price better. Your loan officer checks both.

Questions about bank statement loans.

How many months of statements?

Usually twelve or twenty-four. More months can mean better terms. Your loan officer tells you what applies.

Personal or business accounts?

Either, with different expense factors applied to business accounts. Your loan officer explains how income is calculated from each.

Do I need to be self-employed for a set time?

Typically two years, though some programs allow less with related experience.

Can I use it for an investment property?

Some programs allow it. Your loan officer tells you which do.

Will the rate be higher?

Usually, compared with a conventional loan. Your loan officer shows you the difference side by side.

Other investment and specialty loans