How much house can I afford?

A general guideline is that your total monthly housing payment should not exceed 28-31% of your gross monthly income, and your total debt (including mortgage) should stay below 43% of income. However, affordability depends on your complete financial picture — income stability, existing debts, down payment, and lifestyle priorities. Our team can help you calculate a comfortable budget that works for your situation, not just the maximum a lender will approve.

What credit score do I need to get a mortgage?

Credit requirements vary by loan type. FHA loans accept scores as low as 580 with a 3.5% down payment. Conventional loans typically require 620-640+. VA loans have no official minimum, though most lenders prefer 620+. Higher credit scores generally qualify for better interest rates. If your score needs improvement, we can recommend steps to boost it before applying.

What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Pre-qualification is an informal estimate of what you might afford based on self-reported financial information. Pre-approval is a formal process where the lender verifies your income, assets, and credit to issue a conditional commitment for a specific loan amount. Pre-approval carries more weight with sellers and shows you're a serious buyer ready to move quickly.

How much down payment do I need?

Down payment requirements range from 0% to 20%+ depending on the loan type: VA Loans offer 0% down for eligible veterans, USDA Loans offer 0% down in eligible rural areas, FHA Loans require 3.5% minimum, Conventional Loans require 3-5% minimum for first-time buyers (5-20% typical), and Investment Properties typically require 15-25%. A larger down payment reduces your monthly payment and may eliminate mortgage insurance requirements.

What types of mortgage loans are available?

We offer a full range of loan products including Conventional loans for standard purchases, FHA loans for buyers who need flexible credit requirements, VA loans for veterans and active military with zero down payment, USDA loans for rural properties, Jumbo loans for high-value properties, and DSCR loans for real estate investors. Each program has unique benefits — we help match you with the right fit.

What is an FHA loan and who qualifies?

FHA loans are government-insured mortgages designed for buyers who may not qualify for conventional financing. They offer lower down payments (3.5%), more flexible credit requirements (580+ score), and competitive rates. FHA loans are popular with first-time buyers, though anyone who meets the requirements can apply. The tradeoff is mandatory mortgage insurance for the life of the loan.

Do you offer VA loans for veterans?

Yes. As a veteran-owned company, we're proud to serve fellow veterans and active-duty service members with VA loans. VA loans offer zero down payment, no private mortgage insurance, competitive interest rates, and flexible credit guidelines. Eligible borrowers include veterans, active-duty personnel, National Guard members, reservists, and surviving spouses.

What is a DSCR loan and how does it work?

A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan is designed for real estate investors. Instead of qualifying based on your personal income or tax returns, you qualify based on the rental income the property generates. If the property's rental income covers the mortgage payment and expenses (typically a ratio of 1.0 or higher), you may qualify. This makes DSCR loans ideal for self-employed investors, those with complex tax situations, or anyone looking to scale a rental portfolio without traditional income documentation.

Can I get a mortgage for an investment property?

Absolutely. We specialize in investment property financing including conventional investor loans, DSCR loans based on rental income, and specialty programs for multi-unit properties (2-4 units), short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO), and fix-and-hold strategies. Investment properties typically require 15-25% down and may have slightly higher rates than primary residences.

How long does the mortgage process take?

A typical mortgage takes 30-45 days from application to closing, though timelines vary based on loan type, property complexity, and how quickly documentation is provided. Some loans can close in as few as 21 days with a responsive borrower and clean file. We keep you informed throughout the process so there are no surprises.

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

Standard documentation includes: recent pay stubs (30 days), W-2s and tax returns (2 years), bank statements (2-3 months), government ID, and information about your assets and debts. Self-employed borrowers may need additional business documentation. For DSCR loans, personal income documents are not required — we focus on the property's rental income instead.

What are closing costs and how much should I expect?

Closing costs typically range from 2-5% of the loan amount and include lender fees, appraisal, title insurance, escrow deposits, and prepaid items like property taxes and homeowners insurance. We provide a detailed Loan Estimate upfront so you know exactly what to expect. In some cases, closing costs can be negotiated with the seller or rolled into the loan.

What does it mean to lock my interest rate?

A rate lock guarantees your quoted interest rate for a specific period (typically 30-60 days) while your loan is processed. Without a lock, your rate could change before closing. We recommend locking when you're comfortable with the rate and confident in your closing timeline. If rates drop significantly, some programs offer "float-down" options.

When should I consider refinancing my mortgage?

Refinancing may make sense when you can lower your interest rate by at least 0.5-1%, want to shorten your loan term to pay off faster, need to switch from an adjustable to fixed rate, want to eliminate mortgage insurance, or need to access home equity for improvements or debt consolidation. With rates adjusting in today's market, many homeowners are finding refinancing opportunities.

What is a cash-out refinance?

A cash-out refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new, larger loan — allowing you to receive the difference in cash. This can be used for home improvements, debt consolidation, investment opportunities, or other major expenses. You'll need sufficient equity in your home (typically at least 20% remaining after the cash-out) to qualify.

Can I refinance an investment property?

Yes. Investment property refinancing is available through both conventional and DSCR loan programs. With DSCR refinancing, you can qualify based on the property's rental income rather than personal income — making it easier for investors with multiple properties or complex tax situations to access equity or improve loan terms.

Why choose Mortgage Go for my mortgage?

Mortgage Go is part of the Veracor Group ecosystem, combining the expertise of experienced mortgage professionals with the resources of a diversified investment firm. As a veteran-owned company partnered with Nexus Funding 123 — a direct lender and mortgage banker — we offer competitive rates, a wide variety of loan programs, and personalized service from application to closing. We're not just processing loans; we're building long-term relationships.

What areas do you serve?

Through our partnership with Nexus Funding 123, we serve borrowers across multiple states with operations centers in California, Arizona, and expanding. Contact us to confirm availability in your area.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy. You can request a free consultation to discuss your goals, get pre-qualified to understand your options, or apply directly if you're ready to move forward. Our team is available to answer questions and guide you through every step of the process.

How much house can I afford on my salary?

A common guideline is that you can afford a home priced at roughly 3-4x your annual household income. However, the more accurate measure is your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio — lenders typically want your total monthly debt payments (including your new mortgage) to stay below 43% of your gross monthly income. For example, if you earn $6,000/month, your total monthly debts shouldn't exceed $2,580. Keep in mind that lenders calculate what you CAN borrow, not what you SHOULD borrow. Factor in your lifestyle, savings goals, and future expenses before committing to a maximum loan amount.

What credit score is needed for a mortgage in 2026?

Credit score requirements vary by loan type: FHA Loans require 580 minimum (500-579 with 10% down), Conventional Loans require 620-640 minimum, VA Loans have no official minimum (most lenders require 620+), USDA Loans typically require 640 minimum, Jumbo Loans typically require 700+, and DSCR Loans require 660+ for most lenders. Higher credit scores unlock better interest rates and loan terms. If your score is below 620, consider spending 3-6 months improving it before applying — even a 20-point increase can save thousands over the life of your loan.

Is it better to put 20% down on a house?

Putting 20% down has advantages: you avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI), have lower monthly payments, build instant equity, and may qualify for better rates. However, it's not always the best strategy. If saving 20% delays homeownership for years, you could miss out on appreciation and continue paying rent. Many buyers successfully purchase with 3-5% down using FHA or conventional loans. The "right" down payment depends on your financial situation, local market conditions, and how long you plan to stay in the home. We can help you compare scenarios.

How long does it take to close on a house?

The typical mortgage closing timeline is 30-45 days from accepted offer to keys in hand. Here's a general breakdown: Days 1-7 involve loan application and document submission, Days 7-14 the appraisal is ordered and completed, Days 14-30 underwriting review and conditions are cleared, Days 30-45 final approval, clear to close, and closing day. Some loans can close in as few as 21 days with a well-prepared buyer and clean file. Delays often occur due to missing documents, appraisal issues, or title problems. Being responsive and organized speeds up the process significantly.

What is the difference between FHA and conventional loans?

FHA Loans offer 3.5% minimum down payment, 580+ credit score accepted, mandatory mortgage insurance for life of loan, and are government-insured with more flexible guidelines — best for first-time buyers, lower credit scores, or limited savings. Conventional Loans require 3-5% minimum down (20% to avoid PMI), 620+ credit score, PMI is removable at 20% equity, and are not government-backed with stricter guidelines — best for strong credit, higher down payment, or if you want to remove PMI later. Neither is universally "better" — the right choice depends on your credit profile, savings, and long-term plans.

Can I get a mortgage without showing income?

Yes — DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans allow real estate investors to qualify based on the rental income a property generates, not personal income. No W-2s, pay stubs, or tax returns are required. The lender evaluates whether the property's rental income covers the mortgage payment and expenses. This makes DSCR loans ideal for self-employed investors, business owners with complex tax situations, or anyone who wants to scale a rental portfolio without traditional income documentation. Minimum requirements typically include a 660+ credit score and 20-25% down payment.

What is a DSCR loan and how does it work?

A DSCR loan is a type of non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) designed specifically for real estate investors. Instead of qualifying based on your personal income, the lender calculates the property's Debt Service Coverage Ratio: DSCR = Monthly Rental Income ÷ Monthly Debt Obligations. For example, if a property generates $2,500/month in rent and the mortgage payment (including taxes, insurance, and HOA) is $2,000/month, the DSCR is 1.25. Most lenders require a minimum DSCR of 1.0-1.25 to qualify. Key benefits include no personal income verification required, no limit on number of financed properties, ability to close in an LLC to protect personal assets, availability for long-term and short-term rentals, and faster approval process than conventional loans.

How do real estate investors qualify for mortgages?

Real estate investors have several financing options: Conventional Investment Loans require personal income verification, tax returns, and W-2s, are limited to 10 financed properties, with 15-25% down payment. DSCR Loans qualify based on property rental income, not personal income, have no limit on number of properties, ideal for scaling portfolios, with 20-25% down typical. Portfolio Loans are held by the lender (not sold to Fannie/Freddie) with more flexible underwriting for unique situations. Hard Money/Bridge Loans offer short-term financing for fix-and-flip or value-add projects with higher rates but fast closing. For most buy-and-hold investors looking to scale, DSCR loans offer the best combination of flexibility, speed, and minimal documentation requirements.

Can I finance an Airbnb or short-term rental property?

Yes. DSCR loans are available for both long-term and short-term rental properties, including Airbnb and VRBO listings. Lenders may use actual rental history (12 months of income statements), market rent analysis from an appraiser, or AirDNA or similar platforms for projected STR income. Short-term rentals can qualify if the projected or actual income covers the debt service. Some lenders specialize in STR financing and understand seasonal income fluctuations. Investment properties used as short-term rentals typically require 20-25% down and a credit score of 660+.

How many investment properties can I finance?

With conventional loans, most lenders cap investors at 10 financed properties total. However, DSCR loans have no such limit — you can finance unlimited investment properties as long as each property meets the DSCR requirements and you have sufficient down payment and credit. This makes DSCR loans the preferred choice for serious investors looking to scale portfolios beyond the conventional lending caps. Each property is evaluated independently based on its own cash flow, so your personal income and existing debt don't limit your growth.

Can I get a mortgage for a property held in an LLC?

Yes. One of the key advantages of DSCR loans is the ability to close in the name of an LLC, corporation, or trust. This provides asset protection (separates personal and investment assets), liability insulation, potential tax benefits, and privacy (property owned by entity, not individual). Conventional loans typically require personal ownership, but DSCR and portfolio lenders routinely work with entity-held properties. You'll still need to personally guarantee the loan in most cases, but the property title can remain in the LLC.

Do VA loans require a down payment?

No. One of the most significant benefits of VA loans is the zero down payment option. Eligible veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, and surviving spouses can purchase a home with no money down — something no other major loan program offers. While no down payment is required, you can still choose to put money down if you prefer lower monthly payments or want to reduce the VA funding fee. But for most eligible borrowers, the ability to buy with 0% down makes VA loans the most powerful homebuying tool available.

What are the benefits of a VA loan vs. conventional?

VA loans offer several advantages over conventional mortgages: zero down payment required, no private mortgage insurance (PMI) — ever, competitive interest rates (often lower than conventional), more flexible credit requirements, no prepayment penalties, limits on closing costs charged to the borrower, and available for life (can be reused). Conventional might be better if you have 20%+ down and want to avoid the VA funding fee, for investment properties (VA requires owner-occupancy), or if you've already used your VA entitlement and haven't restored it. For most eligible borrowers purchasing a primary residence, VA loans are the best option available. As a veteran-owned company, we're proud to help fellow service members maximize these benefits.

Who is eligible for a VA loan?

VA loan eligibility is based on military service. You may qualify if you are: an active-duty service member (90+ days of service during wartime, 181+ days during peacetime), a veteran (honorably discharged after meeting service requirements), a National Guard member (6+ years of service, or 90+ days of active duty), a Reservist (6+ years of service, or 90+ days of active duty), or a surviving spouse of a veteran who died in service or from a service-connected disability. To confirm eligibility, you'll need a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. We can help you obtain this — it's often available instantly through the VA's online portal.

Can I use a VA loan more than once?

Yes. VA loan benefits can be used multiple times throughout your life. Your VA entitlement can be restored when you sell a home and pay off the VA loan, or in some cases, you can have multiple VA loans at once if you have remaining entitlement. Common scenarios include: sell and buy again (full entitlement restored after payoff), PCS move (may qualify for second VA loan while keeping first property), and refinance (VA IRRRL streamlines the process). There's no limit to how many times you can use VA loan benefits over your lifetime — it's a benefit you've earned through service.

Can I use a VA loan for an investment property?

VA loans require owner-occupancy — you must intend to live in the property as your primary residence. However, there are strategies to build a rental portfolio with VA financing: house hacking (purchase a 2-4 unit property, live in one unit, rent the others — VA loans allow this), PCS and rent (when you receive orders and move, you can convert your VA-financed home to a rental and potentially use your entitlement again at your new duty station), and refinance later (after living in the home for the required period, you can refinance to a conventional or DSCR loan and use VA benefits for your next primary residence). For pure investment properties where you won't live, DSCR loans or conventional investor loans are the appropriate financing options.

What is the VA funding fee and can it be waived?

The VA funding fee is a one-time fee paid to the VA to help sustain the loan program. It ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% of the loan amount, depending on: down payment amount (higher down = lower fee), first-time vs. subsequent use, and type of service (Regular military vs. Reserves/Guard). The funding fee is waived entirely for: veterans receiving VA disability compensation, surviving spouses of veterans who died in service, and active-duty Purple Heart recipients. The funding fee can be paid upfront at closing or rolled into the loan amount. Even with the fee, VA loans often cost less than conventional loans when you factor in zero PMI and competitive rates.

Family walking toward their dream home at sunset

Real Estate & Business Financing Made Simple

Part of the Veracor Group ecosystem, Mortgage GO connects individuals and investors with competitive mortgage solutions backed by decades of industry expertise.

Get Pre-Qualified

Partnered with Nexus Funding 123
Direct Lender & Mortgage Banker

Your Partner in Property Financing

Mortgage Go is Veracor Group's real estate and business financing division, providing access to a comprehensive suite of mortgage products through our strategic partnership with a direct lender and mortgage banker with multiple operations centers nationwide.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, seasoned investor, or business owner seeking capital, we deliver personalized financing solutions with the speed and service you deserve.

Veteran-Owned & Operated

Mortgage Go Loan Partner ready to help you

Expert Guidance

From application to closing

Loan Programs

Comprehensive financing solutions for every real estate need

Conventional Loans

Traditional financing with competitive rates for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties. Flexible terms from 15 to 30 years.

FHA Loans

Low down payment options starting at 3.5% with flexible credit requirements. Ideal for first-time homebuyers.

VA Loans

Zero down payment options for veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses. We're veteran-owned — we understand your needs.

USDA Loans

No down payment financing for eligible rural and suburban properties. Income-based qualifications.

Investment Property / DSCR

Qualify based on rental income, not personal income. Perfect for real estate investors building portfolios with no limit on financed properties.

Jumbo & Specialty Loans

Financing for high-value properties, condos, manufactured homes, vacation properties, and unique circumstances requiring flexible underwriting.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate your monthly payment and see how different factors affect your mortgage costs.

Home Price

Down Payment

0%No PMI50%

Interest Rate

Loan Term

Property Tax (% per year)

Home Insurance ($/year)

Estimated Monthly Payment

$2,522.62

Loan Amount: $320,000

Principal & Interest

$2,022.62

Property Tax

$400.00

Home Insurance

$100.00

Loan Summary

Loan Amount$320,000

Total Interest Paid$408,142

Total Cost of Loan$728,142

Get Your Personalized Quote

This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual rates and payments may vary.

The Mortgage GO Advantage

Fast Pre-Approval

Know your buying power quickly with streamlined pre-qualification and pre-approval processes.

Direct Lender Access

As partners with a direct lender, we offer competitive rates and flexible solutions without middleman delays.

Expert Guidance

Our team works with you every step of the way — from application to closing and beyond.

Solutions for Every Borrower

First-Time Homebuyers

Move-Up Buyers

Real Estate Investors

Self-Employed Professionals

Veterans & Military Families

Business Owners

Refinance Seekers

What is a DSCR Loan?

A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan is a type of mortgage designed for real estate investors that qualifies borrowers based on rental property income rather than personal income. Unlike traditional mortgages that require W-2s, tax returns, and employment verification, DSCR loans focus on whether the property generates enough rental income to cover its debt obligations.

How DSCR is Calculated

DSCR = Annual Rental Income ÷ Annual Debt Obligations

(mortgage payment, taxes, insurance, HOA fees)

A DSCR of 1.0 means the property breaks even. Most lenders require a minimum DSCR of 1.0-1.25 to qualify.

Who Benefits from DSCR Loans?

Self-employed investors with complex tax returns
Real estate investors scaling their portfolios
Airbnb and short-term rental operators
Investors who want to close in an LLC
Anyone seeking faster approval without income documentation

Learn If DSCR Is Right for You

First-Time Homebuyer Checklist

Buying your first home requires preparation. Here's what you need before applying for a mortgage.

Financial Preparation

Credit score of 580+ (620+ for best rates)
Down payment of 3-20% depending on loan type
2-3 months of cash reserves after closing
Stable employment history (2 years preferred)
Debt-to-income ratio below 43%

Documents to Gather

Pay stubs from the last 30 days
W-2s and tax returns from the last 2 years
Bank statements from the last 2-3 months
Government-issued ID
Information on existing debts and assets

Ready to take the first step toward homeownership?

Get Pre-Qualified Today

Refinance & Unlock Your Equity

Already own property? Refinancing can help you lower your monthly payment, reduce your interest rate, shorten your loan term, or access your home equity for renovations, investments, or debt consolidation.

With rates adjusting in today's market, now may be the ideal time to explore your refinance options.

Check Refinance Rates

Calculating mortgage payments and finances

Integrated Infrastructure

Mortgage Go operates within the Veracor Group ecosystem, providing seamless financing solutions that complement our real estate development, healthcare, and investment initiatives.

Our clients benefit from cross-portfolio expertise and a network built on trust, service, and long-term relationships.

Learn more about Veracor Group

Your Mortgage Questions Answered

From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, we're here to guide you.

Getting Started

Loan Types

The Process

Refinancing

Working With Mortgage Go

Have more questions? We're here to help.

Contact Our Team

Common Questions from Homebuyers

Answers to what you're searching for

Questions from Real Estate Investors

Financing solutions for building your portfolio

Looking to scale your rental portfolio?

DSCR loans let you qualify on property income — no tax returns required.

Get Pre-Qualified

Questions from Veterans & Military Families

We're veteran-owned. We understand your needs.

Mortgage Go is a veteran-owned company. We've served — and now we serve you.

Ready to use your VA benefits?

We're here to help fellow veterans navigate the VA loan process.

Get Started

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you're buying your first home, expanding your investment portfolio, or refinancing an existing property, Mortgage Go is here to help you move forward.

Get Pre-Qualified

Contact Our Team

[email protected]

Financing as easy as 1-2-3

Professional mortgage advisor meeting with happy clients

100% Support

From start to close

Real Estate & Business Financing Made Simple

Your Partner in Property Financing

Loan Programs

Conventional Loans

FHA Loans

VA Loans

USDA Loans

Investment Property / DSCR

Jumbo & Specialty Loans

Mortgage Calculator

Loan Summary

The Mortgage GO Advantage

Fast Pre-Approval

Direct Lender Access

Expert Guidance

Solutions for Every Borrower

What is a DSCR Loan?

How DSCR is Calculated

Who Benefits from DSCR Loans?

First-Time Homebuyer Checklist

Financial Preparation

Documents to Gather

Refinance & Unlock Your Equity

Integrated Infrastructure

Your Mortgage Questions Answered

Getting Started

How much house can I afford?

What credit score do I need to get a mortgage?

What's the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

How much down payment do I need?

Loan Types

What types of mortgage loans are available?

What is an FHA loan and who qualifies?

Do you offer VA loans for veterans?

What is a DSCR loan and how does it work?

Can I get a mortgage for an investment property?

The Process

How long does the mortgage process take?

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

What are closing costs and how much should I expect?

What does it mean to lock my interest rate?

Refinancing

When should I consider refinancing my mortgage?

What is a cash-out refinance?

Can I refinance an investment property?

Working With Mortgage Go

Why choose Mortgage Go for my mortgage?

What areas do you serve?

How do I get started?

Common Questions from Homebuyers

How much house can I afford on my salary?

What credit score is needed for a mortgage in 2026?

Is it better to put 20% down on a house?

How long does it take to close on a house?

What is the difference between FHA and conventional loans?

Questions from Real Estate Investors

PopularCan I get a mortgage without showing income?

What is a DSCR loan and how does it work?

How do real estate investors qualify for mortgages?

Can I finance an Airbnb or short-term rental property?

How many investment properties can I finance?

Can I get a mortgage for a property held in an LLC?

Looking to scale your rental portfolio?

Questions from Veterans & Military Families

Do VA loans require a down payment?

What are the benefits of a VA loan vs. conventional?

Who is eligible for a VA loan?

Can I use a VA loan more than once?

Can I use a VA loan for an investment property?

What is the VA funding fee and can it be waived?

Ready to use your VA benefits?

Ready to Get Started?

Cookie Preferences