DSCR Loans in California for Business Owners Now

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Contributing Author & Editorial Review

This article was authored and professionally reviewed to provide accurate, actionable financial insights.

GHC Funding

GHC Funding

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Alyssa writes about real estate investing, debt-free strategies, and emerging trends in small business finance with a focus on practical insights.

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Samantha Reyes

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Samantha specializes in editorial strategy, compliance review, and refining complex finance topics into accessible, reader-friendly guidance.

DSCR Loan

DSCR Rental Loan Highlights

  • Qualification based mainly on property cash flow (DSCR).
  • No personal income docs required for many programs.
  • Financing for 1–8 unit rentals, portfolios, and many STR/Airbnb deals.
  • Up to 80% LTV on purchases and 75% LTV on cash-out (program-dependent).
  • 30-year fixed and interest-only options available.
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DSCR Loans in California: What You Need to Know

Running a successful business in California can be a challenging and rewarding endeavor. However, when it comes to financing, many business owners in the Golden State face significant hurdles. This is especially true for those who lack a strong credit history or have recently faced financial difficulties. In these situations, a DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan can be a lifeline for California businesses looking to secure the funding they need to grow and thrive.

The Struggle of California Business Owners

Let’s start with a real story from a California business owner, Sarah, who owns a small boutique in Los Angeles. Sarah’s business was doing well, but she needed additional financing to expand her inventory and open a second location. However, due to a dip in her credit score a few years ago, traditional lenders were hesitant to provide her with the loan she needed.

Sarah’s situation is not unique. Many California business owners struggle to secure financing due to factors such as low credit scores, inconsistent revenue, or previous financial difficulties. This can be especially challenging in a state with high real estate prices and a competitive market.

Need capital? GHC Funding offers flexible funding solutions to support your business growth or real estate projects. Discover fast, reliable financing options today!

⚡ Key Flexible Funding Options:

GHC Funding everages financing types that prioritize asset value and cash flow over lengthy financial history checks:

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DSCR Rental Loan

Best for: Scaling rental portfolios
★★★★★ 4.8/5 (120 reviews)
Starting rate~7–9%+
Loan amounts$100K – $5M+
Term30 yr fixed / ARMs
Highlights
  • No tax returns required
  • Qualify using rental income (DSCR-based)
  • Fast closings ~3–4 weeks

SBA 7(a) Loan

Best for: Owner-occupied commercial real estate
★★★★★ 4.6/5 (89 reviews)
RatePrime + spread
Loan amounts$350K – $5M+
TermUp to 25 years
Highlights
  • Lower down payments vs banks
  • Long amortization improves cash flow
  • Good if your business occupies 51%+

Bridge Loan

Best for: Fast closing + value-add deals
★★★★☆ 4.4/5 (72 reviews)
RateVaries by deal
Loan amounts$250K – $15M+
Term6–24 months
Highlights
  • Close quickly — move on opportunities
  • Flexible underwriting
  • Great for value-add or transitional assets
Low Rates

SBA 504 Loan

Best for: Large CRE acquisitions & refinancing
★★★★★ 4.7/5 (101 reviews)
RateFixed, low CDC rate
Loan amounts$500K – $12M+
Term10, 20, 25 years
Highlights
  • Low fixed rates through CDC portion
  • Great for construction, expansion, fixed assets
  • Often lower down payment than bank loans

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For details on GHC Funding's specific products and to start an application, please visit our homepage:

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small bakery in a standalone building in new haven connecticut

 

 

The Role of DSCR Loans in California

So, what exactly is a DSCR loan and how can it help California businesses? Put simply, a DSCR loan is a type of financing that looks at a borrower’s debt service coverage ratio to determine their eligibility for a loan. This ratio is calculated by dividing the business’s net operating income by its total debt service. In other words, it shows how much of a business’s income is available to cover its debt payments.

For California businesses that may have a less-than-perfect credit history or inconsistent revenue, DSCR loans can be a game-changer. Instead of solely relying on credit scores, lenders also consider the business’s cash flow and ability to make loan payments when making a decision. This can open up financing opportunities that may not have been available through traditional lenders.

Credit Score Requirements

While credit scores are not the only factor considered in DSCR loans, they do play a role in determining eligibility. Typically, lenders look for a credit score of at least 650 for a business to qualify for a DSCR loan. However, there are some lenders that may consider lower credit scores on a case-by-case basis.

Approval Process and Timing

One of the major benefits of DSCR loans is that they have a faster approval process compared to traditional loans. In many cases, businesses can receive funding within a few weeks. This is especially helpful for California businesses that need quick access to financing to take advantage of market opportunities.

Common Mistakes California Business Owners Make

When it comes to applying for DSCR loans in California, there are a few common mistakes that business owners should avoid:

  • Not understanding the DSCR ratio and how it is calculated
  • Overestimating the business’s cash flow and ability to make loan payments
  • Not accounting for all debt obligations when calculating the DSCR ratio
  • Not having a solid business plan or financial projections

A Real California Case Study

To better understand the impact of DSCR loans for California businesses, let’s look at a real-life example. John owns a small construction company in San Francisco and has been in business for 5 years. Due to a dip in his credit score a few years ago, he was unable to secure a traditional loan to expand his business. However, John’s business was doing well and had a steady stream of revenue. With the help of a DSCR loan, he was able to secure the funding he needed to purchase new equipment and hire additional staff.

Without the option of a DSCR loan, John would have had to wait years to improve his credit score and potentially miss out on lucrative projects in the meantime. The DSCR loan not only allowed him to expand his business but also helped him improve his credit score through timely loan payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

As a financial advisor, I often receive questions from California business owners about DSCR loans. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. How long does it take to get approved for a DSCR loan?

The approval process for DSCR loans can vary depending on the lender, but in general, it can take a few weeks to receive funding.

2. What is the minimum credit score required to qualify for a DSCR loan?

While credit scores are not the only factor considered, most lenders look for a credit score of at least 650 for a business to qualify for a DSCR loan.

3. Can I use a DSCR loan to refinance my existing debt?

Yes, DSCR loans can be used to refinance existing debt as long as the business meets the eligibility requirements.

4. Are there any restrictions on how I can use the funds from a DSCR loan?

No, businesses can use the funds from a DSCR loan for any business-related purpose, such as purchasing equipment, expanding operations, or refinancing debt.

5. Are DSCR loans only available for businesses in California?

No, DSCR loans are available for businesses in all 50 states. However, the eligibility requirements and loan terms may vary depending on the state and market conditions.

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Compare our top-rated commercial and investment property loan programs below.

DSCR Loan
⭐ 4.8/5
  • No income verification
  • 30-year fixed | Interest-only available
  • Great for rental properties + STR
  • Fast approvals
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SBA 7(a) Loan
⭐ 4.9/5
  • Working capital + business acquisition
  • Up to $5M
  • Low down payment
  • Long-term financing
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SBA 504 Loan
⭐ 4.9/5
  • Owner-occupied CRE
  • Low fixed rates | 25-year terms
  • Great for business expansion
  • Refinance available
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Bank / CRE Loan
⭐ 4.7/5
  • Best for stabilized properties
  • Competitive rates
  • 12–25 year terms
  • Lower fees than private lenders
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Compare Loan Types

Find the Right Financing for Your Real Estate or Business Project

Loan Type Best For Rates Terms Highlights Apply
DSCR Loan Rental properties (LTR & STR) 5.99%+ 30-year fixed, IO options No income docs, fast approvals, great for investors Check My Rate
Construction Loan Ground-up, fix & build, major renovations 8%–12% depending on scope 12–24 months interest-only Flexible draws, great for builders & developers Get a Quote
SBA Loan Business acquisition, working capital, CRE Prime + spread 10–25 years Lowest down payments, long terms, best for business growth See My Options

Contact GHC Funding for Your DSCR Loan Needs

If you are a California business owner looking for financing options, GHC Funding is here to help. Our team of experienced financial advisors can guide you through the DSCR loan process and help you secure the funding you need to achieve your business goals. Don’t let a low credit score or past financial difficulties hold you back. Contact us today to learn more about our DSCR loan options and how we can help your California business thrive.

Ready to take your business to the next level?

Contact GHC Funding now and let us help you secure the financing you need to succeed in the competitive California market.

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GHC Funding DSCR, SBA & Bridge Loans
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