Thinking About a Loan for Investment Property? 7 Questions Real People Are Asking

Table of Contents

• Is it still a good time to get a loan for investment property in 2025?
• What if I don’t have a traditional job or W-2 income?
• How much do I need for a down payment?
• Can I buy property under an LLC?
• What credit score do I need to get approved?
• How fast can I close if I get pre-approved now?
• I’m new to investing. Is this even possible for me?

As more people look to diversify their income, real estate investing continues to gain traction — and so do questions about how to finance it.

If you’ve found yourself asking things like “Can I even qualify for a loan if I’m self-employed?” or “Is it too late in the year to get started?”, you’re not alone.

This week, we’re answering the top questions real people are asking in September 2025 about getting a loan for investment property—whether you’re buying your first rental or planning to scale your portfolio.

1. Is it still a good time to get a loan for investment property in 2025?

Yes — especially in September.

Here’s why:

• Rental demand remains high, especially in mid-sized cities and suburbs
• Rates are steady right now, but small increases are forecasted before year-end
• Inventory is up, which means more options and more motivated sellers

If you get your financing in place now, you can close before Q4 ends — and take advantage of holiday-season deals or lock in tenants before winter.

2. What if I don’t have a traditional job or W-2 income?

You are in luck — you don’t need a traditional job to get approved.

If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, a business owner, or managing income through an LLC, you can explore:

✅ Bank Statement Loans

These use 12–24 months of business or personal bank deposits instead of pay stubs or tax returns.

✅ DSCR Loans (Debt-Service Coverage Ratio)

These qualify you based on the rental income the property produces, not your personal income at all.

Both are great options for entrepreneurs and full-time investors.

3. How much do I need for a down payment?

Most investment property loans require:

• 20–25% down for standard properties
• More if you’re using private or hard money lenders
• Some lenders offer lower down payments if you have strong reserves or income

Pro Tip: Having 6–12 months of mortgage payments in reserve can strengthen your application and help you negotiate better terms.

4. Can I buy property under an LLC?

Yes — and it’s a smart move for asset protection and tax planning.

Many of our clients apply for loans under their LLC or business entity, and we work with lenders who are comfortable underwriting those types of applications.

Just make sure:

• Your LLC is properly registered
• You have an operating agreement
• Your bank accounts are set up and active

5. What credit score do I need to get approved?

While exact requirements vary, here’s a general guideline:

If your credit is lower, we can still help — especially if you have strong cash flow or collateral.

6. How fast can I close if I get pre-approved now?

Some investors close in as little as 10–15 days, especially with DSCR or bridge loans.

Here’s how to speed up the process:

• Get pre-approved this week
• Submit your financials early (bank statements, lease agreements, etc.)
• Have your property picked out and ready for underwriting

Getting ahead now means you’re ready to act when the right deal hits.

7. I’m new to investing. Is this even possible for me?

Absolutely. Many first-time investors start with:

• A duplex or fourplex
• A turnkey single-family rental
• A live-in flip where they renovate and resell
• A short-term rental in a growing market

The key is partnering with a team that can help you not only get financing — but pick the right structure and timeline for your goals.

We work with first-time investors every day, helping them understand their numbers, choose the right loan, and close with confidence.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Know Everything — You Just Need the Right Partner

Getting a loan for investment property may sound intimidating — but when you break it down, it’s a lot like any other smart financial move: you just need guidance, options, and timing.

Whether you’re working a 9–5, building a business, or buying your second rental property this year, we’re here to help you take the next step.

✅ Ready to See What You Qualify For?

At Investment Property Loan Exchange, we help everyday people become confident investors by offering:

• Fast pre-approvals (24–48 hours)
• Investor-focused loans like DSCR, bank statement, and bridge
• Support for first-time and full-time investors
• Nationwide lending options for single-family, multi-unit, and mixed-use properties

👉 Click here to start your pre-approval now