All Forum Posts by: Jaypee Pau

Hey! If you’ve got good credit and solid W-2 income, there are some options that might let you get in with less than 25% down.

Some investor-friendly lenders offer rental loans (like DSCR loans) starting at 15% or 20% down, especially if the property cash flows well and you have reserves. You could also look into house hacking with a 2–4 unit using an FHA or conventional loan, which can get you in with as little as 3.5–5% down if you live in one unit.

Happy to connect you with a lender who does lower-down rental loans if you want to explore that route further.

Great question, Alan. It’s definitely a common challenge for investors using LLCs.

Most conventional lenders won't do 30-year terms under an LLC [they typically require personal guarantees], which is why many investors go the route of refinancing in their personal name to get the best rates and terms, then transfer the property back into the LLC via a quitclaim deed [just be aware of potential due-on-sale implications].

Alternatively, some portfolio or DSCR lenders allow 30-year fixed loans under the LLC directly, but rates may be slightly higher. If flexibility and growth are your goals, it could be worth exploring both paths to see what fits best.

Let me know if you want a lender rec who's investor-friendly. Happy to share!

Great question! First step is to connect with a lender who works with real estate investors. They’ll walk you through what you can qualify for based on your income, credit, and goals.

If it's your first deal, you might look into FHA (if you're living in it), conventional, or even DSCR loans if it's purely an investment.

Happy to DM you a lender I know who’s great with beginners if you want!

That sounds like a great opportunity, especially with the seller open to holding a second! In terms of long-term lending, there are options out there beyond just bridge loans some portfolio lenders or credit unions might be flexible, especially if the deal pencils out strong on cash flow and you're bringing in seller financing as part of the capital stack.

If you're open to it, I recently connected with someone who works with investor-friendly lenders on deals like this

Hey Payson, really solid foundation you're working from nice job stacking cash and planning smart while still in school.

Given your situation, you might want to look into low-down-payment options like FHA (for 2–4 units) or HomeReady/Home Possible if your fiancé’s income qualifies. Some lenders are more comfortable with student co-borrowers than others, so choosing the right one matters. Since your credit is strong and you have reserves, that definitely helps your case.

Also worth exploring:

• DSCR loans (if rental income can support the property)

• Seller financing (especially for off-market deals)

• Local credit unions or niche lenders that work with new investors or student-owner-occupants

Hey Ian! That's awesome you're on the right track starting young and looking to house hack with an FHA loan. Those areas you mentioned [especially Berwyn and Portage Park] have some great multifamily opportunities. I'm also exploring 100% financing options that work for primary residence purchases, even on 2–4 unit properties, which might be something to consider as you're saving up.

Would love to connect and swap notes on what you’re finding in the Chicagoland market!

Hey William! Great question, there are actually a few different ways to acquire a home depending on your situation and goals.

FHA loans are a solid option if you're a first-time buyer or have a lower down payment [minimum 3.5% down with a 580+ credit score]. It’s also more flexible with credit and debt-to-income requirements compared to conventional loans.

Other options to explore:

• Conventional Loans [often require 5%–20% down, but better long-term if you have strong credit]

• VA Loans [for veterans and active-duty service members – 0% down, no PMI]

• USDA Loans [0% down if you're buying in a qualifying rural area]

• 100% Financing Programs [some local and private lenders offer these with no income limits if it’s your primary residence – worth looking into!]

Your best strategy really depends on your credit, income, savings, and the area you're buying in. If you're open to chatting, happy to share more based on your situation!

Hey all!
I just recently bought my first home and wanted to share a bit of the journey in case it helps anyone who's in the early stages. It was definitely overwhelming at times, but I ended up using a financing option that required zero down payment and had no income limits [as long as the home is your primary residence]. I only needed a 620+ credit score and got approved for around 4.5x my income.

It was a game changer for me since saving for a full down payment was the hardest part. If anyone’s in the same boat or thinking of jumping into homeownership soon, I’m happy to share what I learned, what I wish I knew earlier, and how I found this option.

Feel free to drop a comment or message me. Always down to connect with others going through it!

Thanks! Definitely do it’s a game changer if you qualify. Let me know if you find anything similar in your area, always down to compare notes. Wishing you luck too!

Hey Edward, sounds like a solid investment! Some lenders do offer cash-out refi options even on commercial properties in rural areas. You might want to check with local credit unions or community banks they’re often more flexible. I also know of a few lenders who work with rural commercial deals if you’d like to connect!