Can I get a DSCR loan for an Airbnb property?

Yes. Many DSCR lenders offer programs for short-term rental properties including Airbnb and VRBO. STR DSCR programs typically use a 12-month average of rental revenue or a market-based rent estimate, apply a higher vacancy factor (often 25%+), and require a stronger DSCR of 1.25x or higher. Documentation requirements include rental history and occupancy data.

How is Airbnb rental income calculated for DSCR loans?

Lenders typically use one of two methods: (1) a 12-month trailing average of actual rental revenue from platforms like Airbnb, or (2) a market-based rent estimate from the appraisal comparable to similar short-term rentals in the area. Lenders then apply a vacancy factor — often 25% or higher for STR properties — before calculating DSCR.

Do Airbnb DSCR loans require a higher down payment?

STR DSCR loans often require a higher down payment than standard long-term rental DSCR loans. While standard DSCR purchase loans may start at 20% down, STR DSCR programs commonly require 25-30% down payment due to the perceived higher risk of short-term rental income volatility. Exact requirements vary by lender and property location.

Short-Term Rental DSCR Financing

Airbnb DSCR Loans: STR Financing for Investors

DSCR loans for Airbnb, VRBO, and short-term rental properties — how STR income is reviewed, what DSCR ratios lenders expect, and how to position your vacation rental for financing approval.

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How Airbnb DSCR Loans Work

Airbnb DSCR loans are a specialized subset of DSCR financing designed for short-term rental (STR) properties listed on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Unlike standard long-term rental DSCR loans that use a simple gross rent ÷ PITIA formula, STR DSCR loans must account for the variability of short-term rental income — seasonality, occupancy fluctuations, and platform fees.

Key Differences: STR DSCR vs. Standard DSCR

Income Calculation: No 12-month STR history required for eligible programs — qualifying income can be supported by third-party projection such as AirDNA

Vacancy Factor: 25%+ applied to gross STR revenue (vs. 5-10% for long-term rentals)

DSCR Requirement: Typically 1.25x+ (higher than standard 1.00x)

Down Payment: Often 25-30% (vs. 20% for standard DSCR)

Documentation: For eligible programs, third-party market analysis (such as AirDNA) can support projected income; final docs depend on lender

Seasoning: No 12-month operating history required for eligible programs — new STRs can qualify with supported projected income

The lender's primary concern is income stability. An Airbnb that generates $60,000/year but has 90% occupancy in summer and 20% in winter is riskier than one with consistent 70% occupancy year-round. Lenders apply vacancy factors to account for this volatility before calculating DSCR.

Have an Airbnb property you want to finance?

Submit your STR scenario for review — occupancy history, revenue, and property details. I'll let you know which programs fit.

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Matt Dean · NMLS #227603Reviewed: July 11, 2026

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