Last Updated: January 25, 2025
When it comes to financing your real estate investments, Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans offer an attractive solution for scaling your rental portfolio. These loans are unique because they evaluate the property’s income rather than your personal finances. For real estate investors like you, DSCR loans simplify the approval process, making them a great choice.
A DSCR loan (Debt Service Coverage Ratio loan) qualifies borrowers based on property cash flow rather than personal income. Lenders assess whether the Gross Rental Income divided by PITIA (Principal, Interest, Taxes, Insurance, and HOA) meets the required threshold — usually 1.0 or higher. OfferMarket specializes in DSCR loans that prioritize investment property income, not W-2s or tax returns, making it easier for real estate investors to scale.
Two prominent players in the DSCR loan space are Kiavi and OfferMarket. Kiavi markets itself as a tech-savvy lender with flexible options, while we at OfferMarket focus on transparency, cost savings, and investor-first policies. Let’s dive into the differences between the two lenders, so you can choose the one that’s best for your next investment.
Kiavi is a private lender specializing in real estate investment loans, including DSCR loans, fix-and-flip loans, and rental property financing. With a reputation for being tech-forward, Kiavi simplifies the loan process by eliminating manual paperwork and replacing it with an easy-to-use online platform.
1.Competitive Rates:
2.Flexible Loan Terms:
3.Streamlined Processes:
4.Property Types:
5.BRRRR-Friendly:
Kiavi is a go-to lender for tech-savvy real estate investors looking for flexible options and the convenience of a streamlined online process. However, the costs associated with their loans—such as interest rate markups and additional fees—can make a significant dent in your profits.
At OfferMarket, we take a different approach. As a private lender specializing in DSCR loans, we focus on transparency, cost savings, and making the lending process straightforward for real estate investors like you. Unlike many lenders, we don’t pad our fees or add hidden charges. Instead, we prioritize giving you the best possible deal upfront.
We require a minimum credit score of 660, and the amount you can borrow depends on your credit tier, property’s DSCR, and desired leverage (LTV). OfferMarket DSCR loans are available for non-owner-occupied investment properties only and are not permitted for rural-designated properties, unless specific exceptions apply.
1.Transparent Rates:
2.Low Fees:
3.Faster Closings:
4.Simplified Documentation:
5.Wide Reach:
Minimum Down Payment: Typically 20–35%, depending on credit score and property type.
Maximum LTV: Up to 80% for purchases and rate/term refinances; up to 75% for cash-out refinances.
Minimum Credit Score: 660; higher scores (720+) qualify for higher LTV and better rates.
Minimum DSCR: Typically 1.1; may be 1.2+ for lower credit scores or cash-out deals.
Eligible Properties: Single-family homes, 2–4 unit properties, condos, short-term rentals (e.g., Airbnb). Properties flagged as rural on appraisal reports are generally ineligible.
Interest Rate Structure: Based on 5-Year Treasury + Credit Spread. Spread is determined by credit score, LTV, DSCR, property type, location, and prepayment terms.
Category | Kiavi DSCR Loans | OfferMarket DSCR Loans |
---|---|---|
Interest Rates | Starting at 6.75%, may include a rate spread | 6.5%–8.5%, no rate spread |
Origination Fees | 2–4 points | 0.5–2 points, $2,000 minimum |
Additional Fees | Underwriting, processing, servicing fees | No junk fees |
Funding Speed | 30–45 days | 15–30 days |
Documentation | Moderate, requires credit checks and property income | Low-doc: credit check, liquidity verification, appraisal |
Loan Products | Fixed-rate, ARMs, and interest-only options | Fixed-rate only |
Geographic Reach | 32 states + D.C. | 45+ states |
Specialty Loans | Short-term rentals, non-warrantable condos | Focused on long-term rental properties |
Kiavi offers competitive starting rates at 6.75%, but they often include a rate spread. This markup can increase your overall borrowing costs, making the loans less appealing in the long run. Additionally, their rates depend on borrower qualifications, property types, and market conditions.
We take pride in our no rate spread policy. This means the rate you’re quoted is the actual rate from our capital providers, with no additional markups. Our rates range from 6.5% to 8.5%, depending on your credit score and the specifics of your deal.
Our rates are based on the 5-Year US Treasury yield + a credit spread. The credit spread reflects your credit score, LTV, DSCR ratio, property type, location, and whether a prepayment penalty is selected. A stronger borrower profile means a lower spread and a more competitive interest rate.
With no hidden rate spreads, we save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.
Kiavi charges 2–4 points in origination fees, which is above the industry average. You’ll also encounter additional costs like underwriting, processing, and servicing fees. These fees, while common, can significantly increase the total cost of your loan.
Our fee structure is simple and investor-friendly. You’ll only pay:
Our low fees and transparent pricing make us the clear choice for cost-conscious investors.
Kiavi typically funds loans within 30–45 days, which can feel slow in today’s competitive markets. Delays often occur due to third-party reports or additional document requests.
We know that speed is critical for real estate investors. That’s why we close DSCR loans in as little as 15–30 days. Our tech-driven platform and dedicated loan managers ensure a smooth, fast process.
Our faster funding timeline gives you a competitive edge.
Kiavi offers a range of loan products, including:
We focus exclusively on fixed-rate DSCR loans, providing stability and predictability for long-term investments. While we don’t offer interest-only options, our fixed rates help you build equity faster.
Eligible property types include single-family rentals, 2–4 unit multifamily, condos, and short-term rentals. OfferMarket does not support DSCR loans for owner-occupied properties or properties designated as rural on the appraisal report, unless CFPB or USDA exceptions apply.
If you need short-term cash flow flexibility, Kiavi’s ARMs and interest-only options may appeal to you. But for long-term stability and lower overall costs, OfferMarket is the better choice.
Kiavi lends in 32 states and Washington D.C., which limits your ability to expand into certain regions.
We lend in over 45 states, including major markets like California, Texas, Florida, and New York. Whether you’re investing locally or nationally, we’ve got you covered.
Our wider geographic coverage ensures you can seize opportunities anywhere in the U.S.
While Kiavi has built a strong reputation with its tech-forward platform and flexible loan options, we at OfferMarket deliver more value across the board.
Here’s why you should choose OfferMarket:
Here’s how you can secure your DSCR loan with us:
When evaluating DSCR lenders, consider:
Minimum Credit Score
Maximum LTV for Purchase and Cash-Out
Minimum Required DSCR
Down Payment Range
Eligible Property Types (including rural and short-term)
Interest Rate Structure (rate spread vs. no spread)
Fee Transparency (origination, underwriting, servicing)
Prepayment Penalty Options
Closing Speed and Documentation Requirements
Both Kiavi and OfferMarket offer strong DSCR loan programs, but the differences are clear: OfferMarket gives you lower costs, faster funding, and a transparent, investor-first approach. If you’re ready to grow your real estate portfolio with confidence, we’re here to help.
Let’s make your next investment a success!
How does OfferMarket determine DSCR loan interest rates?
Your rate is based on the 5-Year US Treasury rate plus a credit spread, which reflects your credit score, LTV, DSCR ratio, and property risk profile. No rate padding or hidden markup — just true capital market pricing.
Can I use a DSCR loan for Airbnb or short-term rentals?
Yes, OfferMarket supports DSCR loans for short-term rentals like Airbnb, provided the projected income meets DSCR thresholds and the property has a verifiable rental estimate or history.
Does OfferMarket offer no-money-down DSCR loans?
No. A minimum 15–20% down payment is required, and higher leverage (80% LTV) is available only for qualified borrowers.
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