If you think that obtaining investment property financing will be as easy as getting your home mortgage, think again. Prepare for funding your first investment property with these tips.

The default rates for borrowers on investment property loans is higher than home mortgages. Because of this, lenders require higher down payments and rely on strict underwriting for Arizona Investment property financing.  This means that, if you’re purchasing an investment property, be prepared to put down at least 20 percent of the purchase price.  There are, however, exceptions and percentage rates are often based on the type of property. For instance, anywhere from 25 to 40 percent may be required for multi-unit properties.

The advantage of a commercial loan is that the borrower is not required to carry mortgage insurance.  Conventional loan programs allow 80% LTV and, for investment properties, this is a best-case scenario.  You will also want to explore crowdfunding websites for real estate. While these tend to be more expensive, they are often more flexible than conventional loans. Before entering into an investment property, you should have at least three months payments as reserves.

Both interest rates and upfront lender fees are higher than conventional mortgage lenders.  Lenders advertise that their rates will be 0.25% to 0.5% higher than their homeowner loans. You should expect 1 to 3% points higher than owner occupied loan rates. If the lender charges 4% interest for their homeowner loans, you can guestimate an interest rate of 5%-7% for investor loans.

In addition to the interest rates, you will be charged up front points for a mortgage loan.  One-point equals one percent of the total amount of the loan. You can see how these fees add up quickly. Make sure you have reviewed your credit report and credit score. If your credit score is below 740, you will have higher interest rates, higher lender fees, and lower LTVs for your investment property.  If you have a mid-level score, then a conventional loan may not be an option. However, the collectable (property) is reviewed more than you as a borrower. As we mentioned earlier, homeowners are far less likely to default than investors. Lenders have built in loan programs with lower LTVs as caution to default.

The Effects of Multiple Mortgages on Investment Property Financing

If you are carrying multiple mortgages on your credit report, your options are dwindling.  Once you hit the threshold of four mortgages on your credit report, you may be untouchable by conventional lenders.  Fannie May has established a program to help investors that allows 5 to 10 mortgages. Fannie May’s program requires 6 months payments in liquid reserves at the time of settlement.  The program requires 30% down for 2 to 4 units and 25% down for single family homes. You are persona non-grata if there are any foreclosures or bankruptcies or late mortgage payments.  You will need a credit score no less than 720+ if you have 6 or more mortgages.

If you have 10 or more properties, you have slim options.  A good starting place is community banks. Blanket loans issued by commercial lenders are secured against multiple properties.  Be sure to ask what happens if you want to sell a property in the package.

Hard money lenders are an option that many investors turn to.