For Self-Employed Borrowers and Real Estate Investors
From Florida to California, we have alternative lending options
for self-employed and investor borrowers that requires little to no income documentation
As a W-2 employee, your consistent paychecks and verifiable employment make qualifying for a mortgage faster and easier. Discover loan options designed for salaried professionals today!
With over 20 years of mortgage experience, and countless scenarios, our one goal is to provide smarter financing solutions, regardless
of your real estate experience
Low Down Payment Mortgage Miami
A low down payment mortgage in Miami is a home loan that requires less than the traditional 20 percent down payment, making homeownership accessible to borrowers who have the income and creditworthiness but may not have accumulated a large lump sum for a down payment. Horizon Lending Services specializes in helping Miami residents and investors across Florida access these alternative financing solutions, particularly for borrowers whose income doesn't fit conventional lending boxes.
Miami's real estate market moves fast. Whether you are a self-employed professional, a real estate investor building a portfolio, or a W-2 employee with non-traditional income, finding the right mortgage partner matters. Horizon Lending Services understands that Miami buyers often have circumstances that traditional banks struggle to accommodate. Our experience across Texas, California, Florida, and beyond means we know how to structure loans that work for Miami's diverse borrower base.
What Down Payment Options Are Available in Miami?
Down payments in Miami range from as low as 3 percent for conventional loans to zero down for qualified VA borrowers. Horizon Lending Services works with several pathways depending on your situation. For self-employed borrowers, we use bank statement loans that examine your actual deposits rather than tax returns, which can mean putting down 10 to 20 percent while still qualifying. Real estate investors using DSCR loans (debt service coverage ratio loans) can finance investment properties with as little as 15 to 25 percent down, since the property's income, not your personal income, supports the loan. For jumbo loans in Miami reaching up to 5 million dollars, down payments typically start at 20 percent, but we often find creative ways to structure these for high-net-worth borrowers.
Think of your down payment as a partnership signal. The lower your down payment, the more your lender wants to see stability elsewhere, whether that is cash reserves, a strong credit history, or income documentation. Because Horizon Lending Services focuses on borrowers outside the traditional system, we know which paths make sense for your profile.
Who Qualifies for a Low Down Payment Mortgage in Miami?
Qualification depends on the loan type you are pursuing. For conventional low down payment mortgages in Miami, you generally need a credit score around 620 or higher, proof of income, and employment history. For bank statement loans aimed at self-employed professionals and 1099 contractors, we examine 12 to 24 months of bank statements to verify income, which often reveals a stronger financial picture than tax returns alone show.
Real estate investors qualify for DSCR loans based on the property's rental income rather than personal income, which opens doors for borrowers building their portfolio. VA borrowers in Miami and throughout Florida may qualify for zero down financing if they have an active Certificate of Eligibility. Freelancers, business owners, and entrepreneurs who previously thought they could not qualify often find that Horizon Lending Services has a loan structure designed specifically for them.
How Do I Compare Down Payment Options?
Loan Type
Typical Down Payment Range
Best For
Documentation Focus
Conventional Low Down
3 - 10 percent
W-2 employees, first-time buyers
Tax returns, pay stubs, employment verification
Bank Statement / 1099
10 - 20 percent
Self-employed, freelancers, business owners
Bank statements (12-24 months)
DSCR Investment
15 - 25 percent
Real estate investors
Property lease agreement, rental history
VA Loan
0 percent
Qualified military veterans
Certificate of Eligibility, income verification
Jumbo Loan
20 - 30 percent
High-net-worth buyers, luxury properties
Comprehensive financial review
The right choice depends on your income documentation, timeline, and property type. Horizon Lending Services reviews your complete situation and presents the path that minimizes your down payment while keeping your rate and terms favorable.
What Makes Miami's Market Different?
Miami's competitive real estate environment means buyers often need to move quickly and decisively. Property values appreciate steadily, and investors from across the country are actively purchasing rentals and fix-and-flip projects. Because of this, many Miami borrowers benefit from the speed and flexibility that alternative lending provides. A self-employed entrepreneur closing a business deal may not have finalized tax returns yet, but can close a home purchase using bank statement documentation within weeks. An investor purchasing a second or third property needs financing that depends on the property's income, not a delay while personal tax returns are reviewed.
Horizon Lending Services operates across Texas, California, and Florida, meaning we understand regional market dynamics and have relationships with lenders who specialize in your state's requirements. When you work with us on a low down payment mortgage in Miami, you are not talking to a national call center, but rather specialists familiar with South Florida's real estate landscape and buyer profiles.
How Do I Get Started?
Getting started is straightforward. Reach out to Horizon Lending Services to discuss your situation, property goals, and timeline. We will ask about your income type, whether you are a first-time buyer or investor, and whether you are exploring options in Miami, elsewhere in Florida, or across our multi-state service area. From there, we present loan structures that fit your profile and explain the documentation each requires.
The goal is not to push you into a loan that is convenient for us to underwrite, but to find the option that gets you to the closing table with confidence. Whether you are a business owner tired of being told no, an investor ready to scale your portfolio, or a Miami professional who simply wants a faster path to homeownership, Horizon Lending Services has the experience and loan programs to make it happen.
Contact Horizon Lending Services today to explore your low down payment mortgage options and take the next step toward your real estate goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lowest down payment I can put down on a home in Miami?
The lowest down payment depends on your loan type and qualifications. Conventional loans may go as low as 3 percent, bank statement loans typically require 10 to 20 percent, and VA-eligible borrowers may qualify for zero down. Horizon Lending Services matches you with the program that minimizes your down payment based on your income and situation.
Can I get a low down payment mortgage if I am self-employed?
Yes. Horizon Lending Services offers bank statement loans and 1099 loans designed specifically for self-employed borrowers. Instead of relying on tax returns, we examine 12 to 24 months of bank statements to verify income, which often shows a clearer picture of your earning power and qualifies you with a down payment as low as 10 to 20 percent.
How much down payment do real estate investors need in Miami?
Investment property loans (DSCR loans) in Miami typically require 15 to 25 percent down, with the property's rental income supporting qualification rather than your personal income. This allows investors to purchase multiple properties and scale their portfolio faster than traditional lending would allow.
Does Horizon Lending Services operate in Miami, Florida?
Yes, Horizon Lending Services provides mortgage brokerage and alternative lending solutions throughout Florida, including Miami and surrounding areas. We serve self-employed borrowers, investors, and non-traditional income earners across Texas, California, and Florida with specialized loan programs.
DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)
Maximize your portfolio potential with Non-QM loans designed for first time or savvy investors; no tax returns, just smart financing.
Self Employed
Our Self-Employed Non-QM Loans are designed for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners who don’t fit the traditional lending mold. Qualify using bank statements, 1099s, a P&L or asset-based income. No Tax Returns or W2’s Required! 1 Year Self-Employed History Allowed!
VA
With a VA home loan, eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses can buy or refinance with zero down payment, no PMI, and competitive interest rates. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or refinancing, we make the process simple, fast, and tailored to your service.
Jumbo Loans
Unlock high-value properties with creative jumbo loan solutions up to $5 million; perfect for self-employed borrowers, luxury homebuyers, and investors with unique income streams. We go beyond the traditional box to deliver flexible financing that fits your vision.
First Time Buyer
Whether you’re eyeing an FHA loan with low down payment options or a Conventional loan with competitive rates, we help first-time home buyers navigate the path to homeownership with confidence. Get expert guidance, flexible financing, and personalized support every step of the way.
Cash-Out Refinance
Consolidate high-interest debt into one low monthly payment; using the equity you’ve already built. Pay off credit cards, personal loans, or medical bills, update your home, and regain control of your finances with a streamlined, cost-effective solution backed by competitive conventional rates.
We can’t thank Scott Simmons enough for all his help during both our original purchase of our home, as well as our recent refinancing. Scott was able to get us an incredible rate and was extremely detailed and explanatory the entire way. We, of course, had rookie questions being first-time home buyers, but he made himself available to answer and explain any of our questions and made helpful suggestions, as well as great advice given our individual situation. I highly recommend Scott for your mortgage needs!
Sarah Lati
Marcus and HLS went above and beyond the call of duty to get a loan processed in record time and a “clear to close” on Christmas Eve! Highly recommend!!!
David Holmes
Have always had a great experience with Horizon Lending Services. Scott and his team are the BEST! They helped us in 2021 with a refinance of our first home. Then this year they helped us with getting a loan for our property! Scott was patient and always willing to go over everything multiple times to ensure we understood everything. Kept us updated on status’ as well as just to check in.
Samantha Mellott
Just recently had the experience of working with Marcus on a loan for an investment property. Not only did he help me find the lowest cost strategy to purchase the property, he kept me updated, helped jumped through the various hurdles that came up to make sure we didn’t have any delays and the purchase was as smooth as possible. Marcus is an incredible lender and is my go to for any and all loan questions or needs