If you are ready to apply for a mortgage and you’ve been doing your research, you are likely aware that proof of income is a major factor in the approval process. If you are self-employed, it is reasonable to wonder how you might verify your income without the traditional paystubs. One option in this scenario is approval based on bank statements. Generally speaking, lenders will want to see two to three years of personal bank statements and three months of business bank statements. Verifying income based on bank statements rather than pay stubs and W-2s is an option available to you, and there are programs that can streamline this process.
Who Is A Bank Statement Loan Right For?
Bank statement loans are the right fit for anyone who needs to verify their income without a W-2. This might include entrepreneurs, investors, business owners, or freelancers. People who have a W-2, but are maximizing deductibles for business expenses, may also benefit from a bank statement loan because these write-offs make their income appear lower than it is. It may also be the right fit for you if yours is a multiple-income household where some of the income is verifiable with a W-2, but other streams of income are not and are essential to qualify for the loan amount you are seeking.
What are the Benefits of a Bank Statement Loan?
Other than the obvious benefit of not requiring pay stubs or a W-2, a bank statement loan requires less information, which means the approval and escrow process are more streamlined. Altogether, a bank statement loan requires less paperwork, which tends to result in a faster escrow, since there is less information to collect, process, and verify.
How Can I Qualify for a Bank Statement Loan?
While different scenarios and lenders will vary, generally speaking, a lender who approves you for a bank statement loan will want to see two to three years of personal bank statements, and three months of business bank statements (where applicable). These will help verify debt to income ratio, consistency of income, and income history.
Can I Get A Bank Statement Loan for My Refinance?
The short answer is: yes! A refinance is very much like a new mortgage, and bank statement loans are possible for it. Working with us will mean a more customized approach in comparison to a big box lender.
What Terms Can I Expect with a Bank Statement Loan?
Bank statement loans do come in a variety of types, so you can speak with your mortgage broker about which might suit your needs best. You will likely come across 30-year fixed and ARMs with a range of terms. Interest rates do tend to be slightly higher on a bank statement mortgage, and as a non-QM loan they are not regulated the way other mortgage programs are. This makes shopping around even more important.
To read a little more about what a bank statement loan is, and how we can help, check out this article. Not all lenders will be able to offer a bank statement loan, so you’ll need to work with the right lender, who will be well informed about and experienced with bank statement loan programs.
For more information on mortgages and home loans in Roseville CA or refinancing services for the entire Placer County California area or tips on buying a home, contact my office below or call me any time at (916) 847-7263
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