The One Home Loan Program Many Buyers Overlook 

By Andre Enriques | Mortgage Banker – VA Loan Expert

When it comes to buying a home, most buyers focus on the big-name loan options Conventional, FHA, or VA loans (if eligible). But there’s one powerful loan program that’s often overlooked and can make a huge difference, especially in today’s market: the Bank Statement Loan.

What is a Bank Statement Loan?

This loan is a game-changer for self-employed buyers, entrepreneurs, freelancers, or anyone who doesn’t receive traditional W-2 income. Instead of relying on tax returns, a Bank Statement Loan uses 12–24 months of your bank statements to verify income and determine your ability to repay.

That means if you write off a lot on your taxes or your income doesn’t look “typical” on paper—this loan sees your real income.

Why Do So Many Buyers Overlook It?

Most buyers and even some lenders don’t bring it up because it falls under the category of “Non-QM” (non-qualified mortgage). These loans don’t follow the strict guidelines of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, but that doesn’t mean they’re risky or unreasonable. They’re flexible and in the right hands, incredibly effective.

Who Can Benefit?

Self-employed borrowers with solid cash flow

Small business owners who reinvest in their companies

Gig workers and freelancers with 1099 or fluctuating income

Retirees with strong liquid assets but no paycheck

Real estate investors who need an alternative way to qualify

Key Features:

No tax returns required
Loan amounts up to $3M
Competitive interest rates
Can be used for primary residence, second homes, or investment properties
Available for purchase or refinance

Why This Loan Deserves a Closer Look

Too often, I speak with buyers who were told they “don’t qualify” because their income is too complex. But in reality, they just need the right program and the right lender who knows how to navigate these waters.

If you’ve been told “no” by a bank, or you’re frustrated that your business income doesn’t qualify you for the home you really want this could be your solution.

Let’s Talk About What You Qualify For

With over 25 years in the industry, I’ve helped countless buyers especially self-employed professionals get into homes they love using smart, flexible programs like this. If you’re in San Diego, Chula Vista, or anywhere in Southern California and want real answers, I’m here to help.

Call or message me today and let’s explore your options. You might be closer to homeownership than you think.

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Buying a property now before the summer months and the future rate reductions is a smart move. Now is the best time to buy to avoid the flood of buyers once the rates pull back.

Here are several advantages to buying now:

Avoiding Bidding Wars: During the summer months, when the real estate market tends to be more active, there can be increased competition among buyers, leading to bidding wars. By buying before this period begins, you will more than likely have less competition and potentially negotiate a much better deal.

Access to Inventory: Sellers might be more motivated to sell before the summer rush, which could mean more inventory and potentially more negotiation leverage for buyers.

Interest Rate Stability: Since interest rates are expected to decrease in the near future, buying before this takes place can help get you into a home at a much lower price point. We can always refinance you once rates improve, which will put you in a much better financial position.

Less Stress: Buying a property can be stressful, especially when there’s high competition. Buying before the summer rush might result in a smoother, less stressful purchasing process.

Market Conditions: The market may fluctuate based on various factors. By purchasing before the summer months, you may be able to take advantage of more favorable market conditions before they potentially change.

However, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider your individual circumstances before making any decisions. Real estate markets can vary significantly depending on location and other factors, so what’s best in one situation may not be the same in another. Consulting with a trusted real estate agent or financial advisor can also provide valuable insights tailored to your specific needs and goals. When it comes to mortgage questions, I’m here to help.

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Hot off the press!!! FHA just announced the reduction of the monthly mortgage insurance premium!! This is great news for FHA buyers because this will give homebuyers more home buying power and monthly savings. FHA monthly mortgage insurance premium will be reduced from .85% down to .55% for loan amounts at or below $726,200. Now for FHA high balance loans with loan amounts between $726,200 and $977,500 in San Diego County, the monthly mortgage insurance premium will also be reduced from 1.05% down to .75%. These changes are set to take effect on FHA loans submissions registered on or after March 20th, 2023 however, we will implement these changes on February 27th, 2023. These reductions are based on the minimum of 3.5% down payment but below is the full list of other MIP amounts depending on down payment and term of the loan. FHA’s annual MIP is calculated as a percentage of the outstanding loan balance. For example, an outstanding loan balance of $200,000 with a 50 basis point (0.5%) annual MIP, would yield an annual MIP amount of $1,000.

Contact me to learn more about FHA loans or any other loan products that I offer. I’d be happy to help.

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Is now a good time to buy

I have been asked this question many times recently and can honestly say, it’s never a bad time to buy real estate. Due to many recent interest rate hikes in 2022, it has pushed many qualified buyers to put their interest in purchasing a home on hold. Yes, interest rates have climbed, and we have no control over this but rent payments have also increased. As a homeowner, you have the tax benefits and build equity as the years pass making it one of the soundest investments one can make. The name of the game is buying your home now, enjoy it, and you can always refinance in the future if and when interest rates improve (marry the home, not the rate). Let’s be real…The interest you’re paying your landlord is 100% because you have absolutely no ownership or tax benefits when renting. In this market I am seeing more flexibility lately from sellers willing to entice buyers in the way of price reductions and seller concessions to help buyers cover a good portion of interest rate buydowns and closing costs. Many wealthy Americans have built wealth in real estate, and you can too. Qualifying nowadays is a lot easier than one would think and I promise to make the process seamless and as stress free as possible. Do not believe the myths floating around that you need 20% down to buy a home, we offer the VA program to qualified Veterans with no money down and other loan programs with as little as 3-5% down payment. If a down payment is required, the down payment can come from a 401K or TSP retirement account, a gift from an immediate relative, a savings account, a combination of all these, or even a grant from an employer. Feel free to reach out anytime for a free consultation and begin building real estate wealth!

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Towards the end of each year, the lender will complete an audit of the escrow/impound account to ensure they are not over collecting or under collecting. If there is any surplus of funds, the funds will be refunded to the borrower(s). Many borrower(s) opt to waive impounds in an effort to have a lower monthly payment however, they will be required to pay their taxes and insurance on their own whenever they are due.

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