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
Mortgage Process Prosper
Mortgage Process Prosper means moving through loan approval in a way that actually works for your financial situation, especially if you are self-employed, an investor, or earn income in non-traditional ways. Horizon Lending Services specializes in helping borrowers across Texas, California, Florida, and beyond secure financing when standard lending paths do not fit. This guide walks you through the essential steps to make your mortgage journey straightforward and successful.
Step 1: Gather Your Financial Documentation
Start by collecting the documents that tell your true financial story. If you are self-employed or operate as a 1099 contractor, this means personal and business bank statements, typically from the last 12 to 24 months. Unlike traditional loans that rely heavily on tax returns and W-2s, Horizon Lending Services uses bank statements and asset documentation to verify your ability to repay. Think of your bank statements as proof of cash flow in motion-they show real deposits, business activity, and your actual spending patterns.
Organize statements from all accounts: checking, savings, business, and investment accounts. If you own rental properties or are investing in real estate, keep your profit and loss statements and property documentation ready. For jumbo loans up to 5 million dollars, lenders will want even more detail about your assets and income sources. The more organized you are at this stage, the smoother your mortgage process will be.
Step 2: Understand Which loan program Fits Your Situation
Horizon Lending Services offers several pathways depending on your income type and property goals. Bank statement loans work for self-employed borrowers and 1099 earners by treating your deposits as proof of income. DSCR investment property loans calculate your loan amount based on the property's rental income, not your personal income-ideal if you are building a portfolio. VA loans serve veterans with favorable terms and minimal down payment requirements. Conventional loans remain available for W-2 employees and those who qualify through traditional underwriting.
Your choice depends on what you are buying and how you earn. A real estate investor buying a multi-unit property in Texas or California needs different underwriting than a self-employed consultant purchasing a primary residence. Take time to understand which program aligns with your goals, and do not hesitate to ask questions. A knowledgeable mortgage broker will help you choose the option that keeps your costs down and your approval odds high.
Step 3: Complete Your Application and Submit Documentation
Once you understand your loan program, complete the formal mortgage application. This document captures your personal information, employment history, assets, debts, and the property details. Be thorough and accurate; any discrepancies slow things down. Submit your application along with your bank statements, identification, and property information. If you are using asset-based lending, include a current statement from your investment or savings accounts showing the funds you have available.
Horizon Lending Services will order an appraisal and title search to verify the property's value and ownership. You will also authorize a credit check. The timeline for mortgage process prosper depends partly on how quickly you provide documents when asked. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information-a missing document can delay closing by days or weeks. Once underwriting is complete and conditions are satisfied, your loan moves toward closing, where you sign final paperwork and receive your funds.
Whether you are in Texas, Florida, California, or another state served by Horizon Lending Services, the core process remains consistent: gather documents that reflect your actual financial situation, choose the loan program that fits, and stay responsive during underwriting. The difference is that your non-traditional income is treated as an asset, not a barrier.
If you are ready to explore your mortgage options, reach out to Horizon Lending Services to discuss your situation. A mortgage specialist can review your finances, answer questions about which programs suit you best, and walk you through next steps without pressure. Contact them today to learn how alternative lending can work in your favor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need if I am self-employed?
Self-employed borrowers typically need 12 to 24 months of personal and business bank statements, profit and loss statements, and business licenses. Bank statements are the primary proof of income for alternative lending, showing deposits and consistent cash flow. Tax returns are often not required when using bank statement or asset-based loans through Horizon Lending Services.
Can I get a mortgage if I have irregular income?
Yes. Bank statement loans and DSCR investment property loans are designed for irregular income. These programs average your deposits over 12 to 24 months to establish your qualifying income, which smooths out seasonal or variable earnings. Horizon Lending Services can work with your actual cash flow rather than forcing you into a traditional mold.
How long does the mortgage approval process take?
The timeline varies, but most applications move to closing within 21 to 45 days from submission of complete documentation. Speed depends on how quickly you provide requested documents and how straightforward your financial picture is. Responsive communication and organized records help keep your timeline on track.
What is a DSCR loan and who needs one?
DSCR stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio. These loans calculate your borrowing capacity based on the rental income your investment property will generate, not your personal income. DSCR loans are ideal for real estate investors adding properties to their portfolio who want to qualify based on the property's performance rather than their day job.
Do I need a large down payment if I am self-employed?
Not necessarily. Down payments vary by loan program and lender, but alternative lending options often accommodate lower down payments than traditional loans. Ask about specific program requirements, as VA loans and some asset-based programs have favorable terms. Horizon Lending Services will discuss your options based on your situation.
Can I get a jumbo loan if I own a business?
Yes. Horizon Lending Services offers jumbo financing up to 5 million dollars for borrowers with strong assets and income documentation. Business owners often qualify using bank statements, P&L statements, and asset verification rather than standard employment paperwork. Your assets and cash flow tell the story lenders need to hear.
Does Horizon Lending Services work with borrowers in Texas, California, and Florida?
Yes. Horizon Lending Services is based in Texas and serves borrowers across multiple states including California and Florida. Whether you are buying in Texas, relocating to California, or investing in Florida rental properties, they offer the same alternative lending expertise and non-traditional underwriting nationwide.
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