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in Montebello, CA
Both bank statement and P&L loans solve the same problem for self-employed Montebello buyers. Traditional lenders want tax returns, but your tax returns show lower income than what you actually bring home.
The difference comes down to documentation and how lenders calculate your qualifying income. One uses your bank deposits, the other uses CPA-prepared financials.
Bank statement loans use 12 or 24 months of personal or business bank statements. Lenders calculate income by averaging your deposits and applying an expense factor, typically 25-50%.
This works well for business owners with consistent deposits who don't want CPA involvement. You need decent cash flow showing in your accounts and at least 10% down for most programs.
P&L loans require a CPA-prepared profit and loss statement covering 12-24 months. Your accountant signs off on your business income and lenders use that number to qualify you.
These loans often allow higher debt-to-income ratios because the income documentation is more formal. You typically need 15-20% down and a CPA willing to prepare and sign your P&L.
Bank statement loans are faster because you're just gathering statements you already have. P&L loans take longer since your CPA needs to prepare financials, but they often get better pricing because the documentation is stronger.
The biggest split is revenue consistency. If your deposits fluctuate month to month, bank statement averaging hurts you. If your CPA can show steady profit, the P&L route gives cleaner numbers.
Choose bank statements if you have consistent deposits, want to close quickly, or don't use a CPA. This works for contractors, consultants, and small business owners with straightforward cash flow.
Go with P&L if you have an accountant relationship, irregular deposit patterns, or want the strongest approval odds. Montebello buyers with multiple income sources or seasonal businesses usually do better this route.
Yes, most programs accept either personal or business accounts. Some lenders let you combine both to show maximum income.
No, any licensed CPA can prepare your P&L. They just need to sign and provide their license number on the statement.
P&L loans typically price 0.25-0.50% better because lenders view CPA-prepared financials as stronger documentation. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Bank statement programs average deposits, so irregular income gets smoothed out. P&L lets your CPA explain the fluctuations and show overall profitability.
Most programs want 12 months minimum, 24 months preferred. Longer history strengthens your file and sometimes improves pricing.