Investment Property · The Process

The Investment Property Loan Process

From pre-approval to funding, financing a rental follows clear steps — with a rent analysis instead of (or alongside) your income.

MBReviewed by Mike Basti, Mortgage Broker & Founder · NMLS #377740
Quick Answer

Steps: 1) pre-approval & strategy; 2) property under contract; 3) appraisal with rent schedule; 4) underwriting (income or DSCR); 5) closing; 6) funding.

Pre-approval to appraisal

We pre-approve you and set the strategy (conventional vs DSCR). Once you’re under contract, the appraisal includes a market rent schedule that supports DSCR qualification and helps you underwrite the deal’s cash flow.

Underwriting to funding

Underwriting verifies your income (conventional) or the property’s DSCR, plus credit, down payment, and reserves. After clear-to-close, you fund and take ownership of the rental.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take?

Commonly 30–45 days; DSCR files can move quickly since there’s no personal-income review.

What is a rent schedule?

An appraiser’s estimate of market rent for the property, used to support DSCR and your cash-flow analysis.

Can I close in an LLC?

Many DSCR and portfolio lenders allow closing in an LLC — useful for asset protection. We’ll confirm options.

Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766). Figures are illustrative for 2026 and not an offer of credit.

Ready to finance your next rental?

Talk to a licensed California mortgage broker for a free, no-obligation consultation.