Master the Pivot: A Guide to Interest Rates for Refinancing a Former Short-Term Rental Property
CLEVELAND, TN – AUGUST 5, 2025: For real estate investors in Cleveland, Tennessee, the strategic shift from a short-term rental (STR) to a permanent, long-term property is a smart move toward stable, predictable cash flow. While the STR market has its allure, the demand for long-term housing in a growing city like Cleveland, with its robust industrial economy, is a compelling reason to change your strategy. This transition requires a specific type of financing to get the best possible terms, and understanding interest rates for refinancing a former short-term rental property is your first step to success.
Interest Rates for Refinancing a Former Short-Term Rental Property:
- The Challenge of Refinancing and the DSCR Loan Solution
- Current Market Insights & DSCR Loan Requirements (As of August 5, 2025)
- : Investing in Cleveland, Tennessee
- GHC Funding: Your Go-To Partner for Smart Refinancing
- Essential Resources for Cleveland, TN Investors
- Q&A: Your DSCR Loan Questions Answered
- Q: What is a good DSCR score for a loan?
- Q: Can I use this loan for a property that is currently vacant?
- Q: What if I have a high-earning W-2 job but a low DSCR?
- Q: Are there prepayment penalties on DSCR loans?
- Q: Can I use this loan to get cash out of my property?
- Q: Is a DSCR loan a fixed-rate loan?
- Q: How long does the DSCR loan process take to close?
- Your Next Strategic Move
This guide is your authoritative resource for navigating this process, demystifying the financing options available, and positioning your portfolio for long-term growth.

The Challenge of Refinancing and the DSCR Loan Solution
Many investors assume they can simply refinance their STR property with a conventional loan once they secure a long-term tenant. However, traditional lenders often use strict, personal-income-based underwriting criteria that can be a roadblock. This is especially true for investors with multiple properties or complex tax returns.
This is where a DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan provides a powerful solution. This loan is specifically designed for real estate investors, with a focus on the property’s ability to generate cash flow rather than your personal income. The loan’s approval and terms are based on the DSCR, a simple ratio that compares the property’s monthly rental income to its total monthly debt (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance). The primary benefit of this approach is that it allows you to qualify for a loan without providing personal income documentation, keeping your personal finances separate and your debt-to-income ratio clear for future investments.
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Current Market Insights & DSCR Loan Requirements (As of August 5, 2025)
The Cleveland, Tennessee, market is known for its strong industrial economy and stable community, making it a great place for long-term real estate investments. Here’s what you need to know about rates and requirements for DSCR loans today:
Interest Rates: As of today, August 5, 2025, interest rates for DSCR loans are competitive and typically fall within the 7.5% to 9.5% range. The final rate you receive is influenced by several factors:
- Loan-to-Value (LTV): A lower LTV (meaning you have more equity or a larger down payment) will result in a more favorable interest rate.
- DSCR Score: Lenders prefer a DSCR of 1.25 or higher, as it indicates a strong, cash-flowing property. A lower DSCR will likely result in a higher rate.
- Credit Score: While DSCR loans are non-QM, a good credit score (typically 680+) is still key to securing the best terms.
- Property Type: Rates may vary slightly depending on the property, whether it’s a single-family home or a 2-4 unit dwelling.
Loan Requirements:
- No Personal Income Verification: A significant advantage for investors, as the loan is qualified based on the property’s market rent, not your W-2s or tax returns.
- Entity Requirement: The loan must be held by a business entity (e.g., an LLC) for liability protection and to streamline the underwriting process.
- Property Types: DSCR loans are flexible and can be applied to single-family homes, condos, and multi-unit properties.
: Investing in Cleveland, Tennessee
Cleveland, Tennessee, is a city on the rise, with major employers like Whirlpool Corporation, Amazon, and Wacker Polysilicon driving a consistent demand for housing. Here are a few strategic areas for your investment:
- Zip Code 37312: As the city’s largest zip code, this area offers a diverse mix of housing, from single-family homes in neighborhoods like Weston Hills to properties near Lee University. These homes can attract a steady stream of tenants, from local professionals to students and university staff.
- Zip Code 37323: Located on the east side of Cleveland, this zip code is home to several major employers and offers affordable housing options. Converting an STR here to a long-term rental can provide a stable income stream from employees working in the city’s industrial sector.
- South Cleveland (Zip Code 37311): This area is seeing new development and is in a prime location for workers from the expanding industrial corridor. A multi-family property or a single-family home here can be an excellent long-term investment.
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GHC Funding: Your Go-To Partner for Smart Refinancing
Successfully navigating this strategic transition requires a lending partner who understands your unique needs. GHC Funding specializes in providing tailored financing solutions for real estate investors. Our expertise in DSCR Loans means we can underwrite your deal with a focus on the property’s cash flow, not your personal income, leading to a more streamlined and efficient process.
We also offer a full suite of financing options including SBA 7a loans, SBA 504 Loans, Bridge Loans, and other Alternative Real Estate Financing options to support every stage of your investment journey. Our in-depth market knowledge of Cleveland, Tennessee, combined with our flexible underwriting, makes us uniquely qualified to help you achieve your goals.
Test Your Tennessee Investor Insight!

Tennessee, famously known as the "Volunteer State," is a vibrant and growing hub in the American South. From the legendary music scenes of Nashville and Memphis to the stunning peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a diverse landscape and a robust economy. For real estate investors, especially those exploring flexible financing like no income verification rental property loans for new investors, understanding Tennessee's unique appeal is key.
How well do you know this state rich in culture, history, and investment potential? Take our quick quiz!
Essential Resources for Cleveland, TN Investors
To stay informed and connected in the local market, consider these high-quality resources:
- Tennessee Real Estate Commission: The official state regulatory body, providing crucial information on laws and regulations. You can find their website at https://www.tn.gov/commerce/regboards/trec.html.
- Greater Chattanooga Real Estate Investors Association (REIA): This association serves the broader region, including Cleveland, offering networking, education, and support for investors. Visit their site for events and resources at https://www.chattareia.com/.
- Cleveland-Bradley Chamber of Commerce: This is an excellent resource for local economic data, major employers, and community insights. You can view their list of top employers at https://clevelandbradleyedc.com/largest-employers/.
- Zillow Cleveland Housing Market: For up-to-the-minute market trends, home values, and rental data in Cleveland, Tennessee, check out their detailed reports at https://www.zillow.com/home-values/44641/cleveland-tn/.
Q&A: Your DSCR Loan Questions Answered
Q: What is a good DSCR score for a loan?
A: Most lenders look for a DSCR of 1.25 or higher. A score of 1.0 means the property’s income exactly covers the debt, while anything above that indicates a positive cash flow.
Q: Can I use this loan for a property that is currently vacant?
A: Yes. The DSCR is calculated using a professional rental analysis, which determines the property’s market rent. This allows you to qualify for the loan even if you do not yet have a long-term tenant in place.
Q: What if I have a high-earning W-2 job but a low DSCR?
A: With a DSCR loan, your W-2 income is not a factor. The loan is qualified entirely on the property’s cash flow. This allows you to keep your personal income and debt-to-income ratio free for other purposes.
Q: Are there prepayment penalties on DSCR loans?
A: Many DSCR loan products have a prepayment penalty. It is crucial to discuss the specific terms with your lender to ensure they align with your investment strategy. GHC Funding can help you find a loan with the terms that are right for you.
Q: Can I use this loan to get cash out of my property?
A: Yes, DSCR loans can be used for a cash-out refinance. This allows you to pull equity from your property to fund new investments, pay for renovations, or for other business purposes.
Q: Is a DSCR loan a fixed-rate loan?
A: DSCR loans come in a variety of terms, including both fixed and adjustable-rate options. You can choose the loan structure that best suits your risk tolerance and investment timeline.
Q: How long does the DSCR loan process take to close?
A: The streamlined nature of a DSCR loan often allows for a much quicker closing than a conventional loan. While a conventional loan can take 45-60 days, a DSCR loan can often close in as little as 3-4 weeks.
Your Next Strategic Move
Refinancing your former short-term rental to a long-term one is a powerful move toward a more stable portfolio. The key is to partner with a lender who understands your goals and can provide a financing solution that fits your needs.
Ready to explore your options and secure your financial future?
Visit us at www.ghcfunding.com or call us directly at 833-572-4327 to speak with a financing expert.