Mortgages for Self-Employed Buyers: 5 Ways to Qualify Without 2 Years of Tax Returns
If you’re self-employed or a gig worker, getting a mortgage can feel like running into a brick wall — especially when traditional lenders expect two years of tax returns that show high income. But here’s the good news:
You don’t need W-2s or traditional pay stubs to buy a home anymore.
At Mortgage Approval Group, we specialize in helping business owners, freelancers, independent contractors, and 1099 workers qualify for home loans using alternative documentation — known as Non-QM mortgage loans.
Jason’s Story: From Denial to $450K Approval
Jason owns a busy automotive repair shop in Florida. His business is successful, but like many self-employed people, his tax returns didn’t reflect his true earning power. On paper, he only showed $2,200/month in income — barely enough to qualify for a $95,000 home.
Both his bank and credit union told him “no.”
But when Jason came to us, we reviewed his business and personal bank statements instead of just tax returns. Thanks to our bank statement mortgage program, Jason qualified for a $450,000 home — and now lives in a place he loves, without compromising his business.
5 Flexible Mortgage Options for Self-Employed & Gig Workers
1. Bank Statement Loans (12- or 24-Months)
These loans use your monthly deposits to calculate income. They’re ideal for entrepreneurs, consultants, and business owners who write off a lot on their taxes.
2. 1099-Only Loans
Perfect for gig workers, drivers, and freelancers. Instead of tax returns, we use your annual 1099 forms to verify income.
3. Profit and Loss (P&L) Only Loans
Have a CPA-prepared profit and loss statement? We can use it alone to document your income — no bank statements required.
4. 1-Year Tax Return Loans
Been self-employed for just one year? You may qualify for conventional financing based on a single year of tax returns.
5. Asset Utilization Loans
If you have strong savings, retirement, or investment accounts, we can calculate income based on your assets — even with low or irregular monthly earnings.
Why Banks Say No — and Why We Say Yes
Traditional lenders often don’t understand how to evaluate self-employed borrowers fairly. If your income is irregular or heavily deducted, they may reject your application — even if you’re fully capable of making mortgage payments.
That’s where Non-QM lending steps in.
Is a Non-QM Loan Right for You?
If you’re self-employed, a real estate agent, consultant, contractor, business owner, or gig worker — and you’ve been told you don’t qualify — you may just be talking to the wrong lender.
Let’s fix that.
Schedule a No-Obligation Review Today
We’ll take a real look at your income — not just what’s on paper — and help you discover what’s actually possible.
📞 Call or text me: 813-565-0884
📅 Or schedule time here: https://calendly.com/Scott-Kepler
