Question 1

What's the minimum down payment for an investor loan in Larkspur?

Accepted Answer

20% down is the standard minimum. Some lenders go to 15% for strong DSCR and reserves, but 20% is the safe floor. Anything less signals risk to underwriters.

Question 2

How does DSCR work on an investor property?

Accepted Answer

DSCR divides the property's annual rental income by the annual loan payment. A 1.25x DSCR means the rent covers the payment 1.25 times over. Lenders require at least 1.20x to 1.25x.

Question 3

Can I use my primary home's equity to fund the down payment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — a cash-out refinance on your primary home can fund the investor down payment. Lenders will verify the source of funds and may require a seasoning period (30–60 days) before closing.

Question 4

What credit score do I need for an investor loan?

Accepted Answer

680 FICO is the typical floor. Some lenders go to 660 for strong DSCR and reserves. Above 740, you'll see better rates and faster approval.

Question 5

How long does an investor loan take to close?

Accepted Answer

Plan on 30 to 45 days. Investor loans take longer than primary-residence loans because lenders order appraisals, verify rental comps, and stress-test the income.

Investor Loans in Larkspur: Build Your Portfolio in Marin