Navigating the Process for Changing a Short-Term Rental Mortgage to a Long-Term One
PRESCOTT, AZ – AUGUST 5, 2025: For real estate investors in Prescott, Arizona, the shift from a short-term rental (STR) to a long-term rental (LTR) is more than just a change in strategy—it’s a strategic pivot toward stability and predictable income. While the short-term rental market has provided lucrative opportunities, factors like changing regulations and market saturation can make a steady long-term tenant a more appealing option. However, making this transition isn’t as simple as swapping out tenants. It requires a specific financing strategy to update your mortgage. This guide will provide an authoritative look at the process for changing a short-term rental mortgage to a long-term one, focusing on the specialized lending products that make this possible.
Changing a Short-Term Rental Mortgage to a Long-Term:
- The Challenge with Traditional Lending and the DSCR Solution 💡
- DSCR Loan Requirements and Current Market Insights (As of August 5, 2025)
- Advanced Geo-Targeting: Prescott, Arizona Investment Opportunities
- GHC Funding: Your Go-To Partner for Strategic Refinancing
- Essential Resources for Prescott, AZ Investors
- Common Questions from Real Estate Investors (Q&A)
- Q1: What's the biggest benefit of a DSCR loan for this process?
- Q2: Can I get a cash-out refinance with this strategy?
- Q3: How do lenders determine the rental income for my property?
- Q4: What if my credit score isn't perfect? Can I still get a DSCR loan?
- Q5: What’s the difference between a DSCR loan and a conventional loan for my long-term rental?
- Q6: What kind of loan terms are available for DSCR loans?
- Q7: Can I use this strategy for a multi-family property?
- Your Next Strategic Move
- Ready to make the smart move?
The Challenge with Traditional Lending and the DSCR Solution 💡
Traditional lenders, such as large banks and credit unions, typically don’t distinguish between a short-term rental and a long-term rental. They often require extensive personal income documentation, like tax returns, and may be hesitant to underwrite a loan for a property that previously had an inconsistent income stream. This is where a Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan becomes an essential tool.

A DSCR loan is a type of non-qualified mortgage (non-QM) designed specifically for real estate investors. It bypasses the need for personal income verification by focusing on the property’s ability to generate cash flow. The loan’s approval is based on the DSCR, a ratio that compares the property’s gross rental income to its total debt obligations. Your property’s new long-term lease agreement is the key to proving its financial viability.
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DSCR Loan Requirements and Current Market Insights (As of August 5, 2025)
The Prescott, Arizona real estate market, with its charming historic downtown and a growing population, is a prime location for this kind of strategic transition. Here are the key requirements and market insights for securing a DSCR loan:
Current Interest Rates: As of today, DSCR loan interest rates for investment properties generally range from 8.00% to 10.00%. Your specific rate will be influenced by:
- Loan-to-Value (LTV): A lower LTV (higher equity) demonstrates less risk and can secure you a better rate.
- DSCR Score: A higher ratio (e.g., 1.25x or above) indicates a very strong cash-flowing property, which is ideal for securing the most competitive terms.
- Credit Score: While not a personal-income loan, a strong credit score (680+) is still a key factor in securing the best possible interest rate.
- Property Type: Rates can vary based on whether the property is a single-family home, a 2-4 unit dwelling, or a condo.
Detailed Requirements:
- No Personal Income Verification: Your W-2s and tax returns are not required, as the loan is qualified based on the property’s income.
- Entity Requirements: Loans are typically made to an LLC or other corporate entity, providing you with an extra layer of liability protection.
- Property Types Accepted: DSCR loans are flexible and can be applied to a wide range of investment properties, from single-family homes and condos to multi-family units.
Advanced Geo-Targeting: Prescott, Arizona Investment Opportunities
Prescott’s unique real estate landscape offers specific investment opportunities for this conversion process. The area’s major economic drivers—including Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University—create a strong and consistent demand for long-term rentals.
- Downtown Prescott (86301): The historic area around Courthouse Square is ideal for converting an STR into a long-term rental targeting professionals or retirees. Imagine a charming bungalow that was once a popular Airbnb now providing consistent income from a professional working at a local business.
- Prescott Valley (86314): This rapidly growing neighboring city offers a more suburban feel and newer housing stock. Properties here are perfect for families, and transitioning an STR to an LTR can tap into the strong long-term housing demand from employees of major local businesses like Ace Hardware and Lockheed Martin.
- The Dells Estates: This community near the stunning Granite Dells landmark is perfect for higher-end long-term rentals. A property that once served as a luxury weekend retreat can be refinanced to attract a stable, high-income tenant, providing a reliable and lucrative income stream.
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GHC Funding: Your Go-To Partner for Strategic Refinancing
The decision to transition your investment property requires a lending partner who understands the unique landscape of non-traditional financing. GHC Funding is that partner. We are experts in providing financing solutions tailored to real estate investors and are among the lenders that specialize in refinancing a short-term rental to a long-term one.
- Flexible Underwriting: Our process is built around the asset’s performance, not a rigid set of rules. This means we can approve loans that traditional lenders would reject.
- Market Expertise: We possess deep knowledge of the Prescott real estate market, allowing us to accurately value your property and its rental potential.
- Streamlined Process: Our technology and dedicated team ensure a fast, efficient closing, so you can quickly lock in a low rate and a long-term tenant.
Beyond DSCR loans, we offer a full suite of financing options including SBA 7a loans, SBA 504 Loans, Bridge Loans, and other forms of Alternative Real Estate Financing to meet your investment needs.
Essential Resources for Prescott, AZ Investors
- Arizona Real Estate Investors Association (AZREIA): A state-wide organization with a local chapter in Prescott that provides networking, education, and support for real estate investors. www.azreia.org
- Prescott Area Association of REALTORS® (PAAR): The local association that provides valuable market data and resources for real estate professionals. www.paar.org
- Arizona Department of Real Estate (ADRE): The official state regulatory body for real estate, offering crucial information on licensing, laws, and regulations. https://azre.gov/
- City of Prescott Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): This department provides information on housing activities and economic development that can be relevant to investors. https://prescott-az.gov/planning-and-zoning/cdbg/
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Common Questions from Real Estate Investors (Q&A)
Q1: What’s the biggest benefit of a DSCR loan for this process?
A: The biggest benefit is that it qualifies your loan based on the property’s income, not your personal income, which is ideal for investors with multiple properties or complex financial situations.
Q2: Can I get a cash-out refinance with this strategy?
A: Yes, a DSCR loan can be used for a cash-out refinance, allowing you to pull equity from the property to fund your next investment or for property improvements.
Q3: How do lenders determine the rental income for my property?
A: Lenders will use a professional rental analysis (usually through an appraisal) to determine the market-rate rent for your property. This is especially helpful if your property is currently vacant or was recently a short-term rental.
Q4: What if my credit score isn’t perfect? Can I still get a DSCR loan?
A: Yes, DSCR loans are more flexible. While a better credit score will get you a better rate, the primary focus is on the property’s cash flow. Lenders often work with scores down to 640.
Q5: What’s the difference between a DSCR loan and a conventional loan for my long-term rental?
A: The key difference is the underwriting process. A DSCR loan focuses solely on the property’s cash flow, while a conventional loan requires a full review of your personal income, assets, and debt-to-income ratio.
Q6: What kind of loan terms are available for DSCR loans?
A: DSCR loans typically offer a variety of terms, including 30-year fixed-rate mortgages and various adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), giving you the flexibility to choose the best option for your investment strategy.
Q7: Can I use this strategy for a multi-family property?
A: Absolutely. DSCR loans are perfect for multi-family properties, as the combined rental income from all units is used to calculate the DSCR, making it an excellent way to finance your portfolio.
Your Next Strategic Move
It’s time to leverage your investment and secure a stable, long-term asset. A well-executed refinance is your path to a more predictable portfolio and the capital to fund your next venture.
Ready to make the smart move?
Visit us at www.ghcfunding.com or call us directly at 833-572-4327 to speak with a specialist and get started today.