Navigating the New Frontier: How to Refinance an Airbnb Property Without a Tax Return
SCRANTON, PA – AUGUST 6, 2025: For today’s savvy real estate investor, short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo have become a powerful wealth-building tool. These properties often generate impressive cash flow, but they can present a unique challenge when it comes to traditional financing. The biggest hurdle? Proving income with tax returns, which often show significant write-offs and minimal taxable income, failing to reflect the property’s true profitability.
This is where a Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan becomes an essential tool. It’s the ideal solution for investors looking to refinance an Airbnb property without a tax return. This comprehensive guide will show you how this innovative financing option works and how you can leverage it to grow your portfolio.
Refinance an Airbnb Property Without a Tax Return:
- What Is a DSCR Loan and Why Is It the Ideal Solution?
- Current Market Insights & Loan Requirements (as of August 6, 2025)
- GHC Funding: Your Go-To Lender for Non-Traditional Financing
- Geo-Targeting: A Look at the Scranton, PA Market
- Q&A Section: Your DSCR Loan Questions Answered
- Q1: Can I use a DSCR loan to purchase a new Airbnb property, or is it only for refinancing?
- Q2: What is a good DSCR ratio?
- Q3: How do lenders verify the rental income for my Airbnb?
- Q4: Do I need a business entity like an LLC to get a DSCR loan?
- Q5: What if I have multiple investment properties but my personal income is low?
- Q6: What is the typical LTV for a DSCR loan?
- Q7: Are there prepayment penalties with DSCR loans?
- External Resources for Scranton, PA Investors
- Ready to Refinance Your Airbnb and Unlock Your Portfolio's Potential?
- Get started on your financing journey!
What Is a DSCR Loan and Why Is It the Ideal Solution?
A DSCR loan is a type of non-qualified mortgage (non-QM) designed specifically for real estate investors. Unlike traditional loans that scrutinize your personal income via tax returns, a DSCR loan focuses on the property’s ability to generate income. The key metric is the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), which is a simple calculation:

DSCR = Gross Rental Income / Total Debt Service (PITI)
For Airbnb properties, the lender will use a projected rental analysis from a third-party report to determine the potential rental income. If the property’s income is greater than its expenses, it has a DSCR above 1.0. A ratio of 1.20 or higher is generally considered a strong DSCR, leading to more favorable terms. This means you can bypass the need for personal tax returns entirely, making it the perfect choice for investors with multiple properties or those who utilize aggressive tax strategies.
DSCR Loan IQ Quiz!

Test your knowledge of Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans!
Current Market Insights & Loan Requirements (as of August 6, 2025)
As of today, August 6, 2025, DSCR loan interest rates for investment properties typically range from 7.25% to 9.00%. The specific rate you receive depends on several factors, including:
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: Lower LTVs (e.g., a larger down payment) result in lower rates.
- DSCR Score: A higher DSCR (above 1.25) signals less risk to the lender, often earning you a better rate.
- Credit Score: While not as critical as with a traditional loan, a good credit score (typically 660+) will improve your rate.
- Property Type: Single-family homes, 2-4 unit properties, and condos are commonly accepted.
The requirements for a DSCR loan are designed to benefit the modern investor:
- No Personal Income Verification: The biggest advantage—no W2s, no pay stubs, and no tax returns are required.
- Borrower Experience: Lenders will look for a track record of successful real estate investment.
- Entity Requirements: Loans can be made to individuals or through business entities like LLCs, providing flexibility and asset protection.
- Eligible Property Types: DSCR loans can be used for a wide range of rental properties, including short-term rentals, long-term rentals, and vacation homes.
GHC Funding: Your Go-To Lender for Non-Traditional Financing
Navigating the landscape of DSCR loans requires a lender with specialized expertise. GHC Funding is uniquely positioned to help you refinance your Airbnb portfolio. Their team understands the nuances of the short-term rental market and offers flexible underwriting that focuses on the true potential of your property, not just your personal income history.
GHC Funding’s streamlined process and deep market knowledge make them the ideal partner for investors in any market, including the growing real estate scene in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Their comprehensive suite of financing solutions, from DSCR Loans to SBA 7a loans and Alternative Real Estate Financing, ensures you have the right tool for any investment strategy.
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Geo-Targeting: A Look at the Scranton, PA Market
Scranton, PA, often called “The Electric City,” has emerged as a promising market for real estate investors. With its affordability and strategic location, the city offers a compelling environment for short-term and long-term rentals. A DSCR loan can unlock opportunities in key neighborhoods and zip codes:
- The Hill Section (Zip Code 18510): Home to the University of Scranton, this neighborhood is ideal for both student housing and short-term rentals catering to visiting families and alumni.
- Green Ridge (Zip Code 18509): Known for its historic, well-maintained homes, Green Ridge attracts professionals and families, making it a stable long-term rental market.
- Downtown Scranton (Zip Code 18503): With ongoing revitalization efforts and landmarks like the Steamtown National Historic Site and the Lackawanna River, the downtown area is perfect for Airbnb investments aimed at tourists and business travelers.
Key economic drivers like the healthcare industry (Geisinger Community Medical Center) and logistics sector (FedEx Ground and Amazon distribution centers) fuel a steady demand for housing across the region.
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Q&A Section: Your DSCR Loan Questions Answered
Q1: Can I use a DSCR loan to purchase a new Airbnb property, or is it only for refinancing?
A: DSCR loans can be used for both purchases and refinances of investment properties, including short-term rentals.
Q2: What is a good DSCR ratio?
A: Most lenders prefer a DSCR of 1.20 or higher. A DSCR of 1.0 is considered break-even, and ratios below 1.0 are typically not approved.
Q3: How do lenders verify the rental income for my Airbnb?
A: Lenders will order a third-party market rental analysis, often from a company like AirDNA or Rent-ometer, to get a conservative estimate of the property’s potential income as a short-term rental.
Q4: Do I need a business entity like an LLC to get a DSCR loan?
A: While a business entity is not always required, many investors choose to use an LLC for liability protection and tax benefits. Lenders like GHC Funding are flexible and can work with you whether you’re an individual or an entity.
Q5: What if I have multiple investment properties but my personal income is low?
A: This is the exact scenario where a DSCR loan excels. Since the loan is based on the property’s cash flow, your personal income and tax returns are irrelevant, allowing you to continue growing your portfolio.
Q6: What is the typical LTV for a DSCR loan?
A: LTVs can vary, but most DSCR loans for refinances require a minimum equity of 20-25%, resulting in a maximum LTV of 75-80%.
Q7: Are there prepayment penalties with DSCR loans?
A: Prepayment penalties are common with these loans and are typically in effect for the first 1-5 years. However, GHC Funding can help you understand the terms and find a loan that fits your long-term strategy.
External Resources for Scranton, PA Investors
To further assist you in your investment journey, here are some helpful external resources:
- Greater Scranton Board of Realtors: Stay informed on local market trends and connect with other professionals at https://www.scrantonrealtors.org/.
- Pennsylvania Department of State, Real Estate Commission: Review official state regulations and licensing information at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dos/department-and-offices/bpoa/boards-commissions/real-estate-commission.html.
- Lackawanna County Housing Authority: Explore opportunities for long-term rental investments and stay up-to-date on local housing initiatives at https://www.hacl.org/.
Ready to Refinance Your Airbnb and Unlock Your Portfolio’s Potential?
If you’re ready to stop letting tax returns dictate your investment strategy and take control of your real estate portfolio, a DSCR loan is the clear path forward.
Contact the experts at GHC Funding today to see how a DSCR loan can work for you. Call us at 833-572-4327 or visit us online at www.ghcfunding.com to get started on your financing journey!