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Taft's rental market is drawing investor attention as Kern County's median household income of $67,660 supports steady tenant demand.
DSCR loans let investors qualify based on the property's rental income, not personal W-2s. This matters in Taft where a modest rental can generate strong cash flow relative to purchase price.
620
Minimum FICO
20–25%
Typical Down Payment
1.25x or higher
DSCR Ratio Required
30–45 days
Underwriting Timeline
$832,750
2026 Conforming Limit
DSCR Loans in Taft
DSCR loans require the property's net rental income to cover the mortgage payment by a set ratio—typically 1.25x or higher. Credit scores usually start at 620, though 680+ is safer. Down payments range from 20% to 25% depending on the lender.
Taft's median household income of $67,660 (Kern County figure) means rental properties here often cash-flow well. A modest duplex or single-family rental can easily meet DSCR thresholds when purchase prices align with local rents.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect dscr loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Taft.
Taft's rental market is drawing investor attention as Kern County's median household income of $67,660 supports steady tenant demand.
DSCR loans let investors qualify based on the property's rental income, not personal W-2s. This matters in Taft where a modest rental can generate strong cash flow relative to purchase price.
DSCR loans require the property's net rental income to cover the mortgage payment by a set ratio—typically 1.25x or higher. Credit scores usually start at 620, though 680+ is safer. Down payments range from 20% to 25% depending on the lender.
DSCR lending in California has tightened since 2023 but remains available through portfolio lenders and some non-QM specialists. Brokers can access a smaller pool than conventional, so rates and terms vary more by lender.
Underwriting takes 30–45 days. Most lenders want two years of rental history or a lease agreement. Bank statements and tax returns matter more than W-2s. Portfolio lenders typically offer better flexibility than retail banks on property type and occupancy.
DSCR makes sense in Taft when the rental income is solid and the purchase price is under $832,750 (the 2026 conforming limit). Above that, jumbo DSCR rates spike and down-payment requirements climb to 25%+.
The real win is for W-2-light investors—self-employed landlords, business owners, 1099 earners. If you have strong rental cash flow but messy tax returns, DSCR bypasses the income-documentation maze that kills conventional deals.
Conventional investment loans require full personal income documentation and typically 25% down. DSCR lets you put 20% down and skip the W-2 maze if the property cash-flows. The tradeoff: DSCR rates run higher and underwriting takes longer.
Cash-out refinancing is another path for landlords who already own property. But if you're buying new, DSCR wins when rental income is strong and your personal tax returns are complicated.
Downtown Bakersfield is adding dining options—Hoagies and new restaurants at The Marketplace open in 2026. That foot traffic and economic activity spill into nearby Taft, supporting rental demand and property appreciation.
The Bakersfield Sound Music and Brew Fest returns May 31, 2026. These events signal a region investing in lifestyle and tourism, which attracts renters and keeps vacancy low for landlords.
Most lenders start at 620 FICO, but 680+ is safer and gets better rates. The property's cash flow matters more than your personal credit, so even a 640 score can work if the rental income is strong.
Some portfolio lenders allow 15% down, but 20% is standard and locks in better pricing. Below 20%, rates jump and underwriting gets tighter. Most investors find 20% the sweet spot.
Two years is ideal, but a signed lease or letter of intent can work for new purchases. If you're buying a vacant property, lenders use market-rent estimates. Call for specifics on your deal.
Most lenders want 1.25x or higher—meaning the property's net income covers the mortgage payment by 25%. Some portfolio lenders go as low as 1.0x, but rates are higher and down payment climbs to 25%.
Expect 30–45 days from application to clear-to-close. DSCR takes longer than conventional because lenders verify rental income more carefully. Having tax returns and lease agreements ready speeds the process.