Draft — unreviewed sample, not for publication. Pending named-byline and licensed-LO review.
The Short-Term Rental DSCR Playbook
Airbnb and VRBO underwriting on DSCR: how STR income is treated, the lenders who use projections vs trailing history, and the seasonality trap.
· 1 min read
Outline — pending named byline + LO review.
Who this is for
- Investors buying or refinancing Airbnb / VRBO properties
- Markets where STR yields beat long-term rents
How STR income is treated
- Projection-based (AirDNA-style) vs trailing 12-month operating history
- Annual blend vs peak-month income — the seasonality trap
- Markets and regulations that lenders flag
Scenario examples
- [Coastal STR, peak $5,500/mo, annual blend much lower]
- [Established STR with 12-month history]
Qualification matrix
| Income method | Typical max LTV | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trailing 12-mo history | — | Best treatment |
| Projection-based | — | More conservative |
What typically goes wrong
Indicative rate range
Add once LO-reviewed.
Estimates only. Actual rates, terms, and approval subject to lender underwriting, appraisal, and qualifying criteria.
We are currently licensed to originate in Texas. For other states this page is educational only and is not an offer to lend.