Best Non-QM Loans for Self-Employed Homebuyers: Flexible Options Explained

Justin Kelly
May 9, 2025

Mortgage Flexibility for Self-Employed Buyers

Qualifying for a mortgage as a self-employed borrower can be challenging under traditional lending guidelines. If your income doesn't come with a W-2 or if your tax returns don’t reflect your actual earnings due to write-offs, standard mortgage programs may fall short. That’s where Non-QM loans come in.

At CPF Mortgage, we offer flexible Non-QM loan options tailored specifically for self-employed professionals, freelancers, and small business owners.


What Are Non-QM Loans for the Self-Employed?

Non-QM stands for "Non-Qualified Mortgage." These loans do not meet the standard requirements set by federal agencies for qualified mortgages. Instead, they use alternative methods to verify income and assess a borrower's ability to repay.

Non-QM loans are commonly used by:

  • Self-employed individuals with complex or fluctuating income
  • Independent contractors and freelancers
  • Borrowers with significant tax deductions
  • Individuals with recent credit events (such as a foreclosure or bankruptcy)
  • Buyers with higher-than-average debt-to-income ratios

Popular Non-QM Loan Programs for Self-Employed Borrowers

Loan TypeKey Feature
Bank Statement LoanUses 12–24 months of bank statements instead of tax returns
1099-Only LoanIdeal for independent contractors using 1099 income
Asset-Based LoanQualifies borrowers based on liquid assets rather than income
Interest-Only LoanReduces monthly payments for an initial term
DSCR LoanDesigned for real estate investors using rental income

Benefits of a Non-QM Loan for the Self-Employed

  • Income can be documented without tax returns
  • Higher DTI ratios are generally allowed
  • Less stringent credit requirements
  • Available for primary residences, second homes, and investment properties
  • Potential to qualify shortly after a bankruptcy, foreclosure, or short sale

CPF Mortgage: Helping Self-Employed Buyers Navigate Non-QM Loans

CPF Mortgage works directly with a wide network of Non-QM lenders to offer flexible mortgage options for self-employed borrowers in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and Colorado. We help you present your income story clearly and effectively, using documentation that reflects your actual earning potential—whether through bank statements, assets, or alternative income sources.

To get started, visit our Apply Now page or connect with one of our mortgage professionals to explore your options.

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State of Florida, Colorado, Georgia and Tennessee.
NMLS #222883
Christopher Paul Financial, LLC dba CPF Mortgage is a Florida mortgage lender NMLS 222883, Florida state license MLD929, Colorado registered mortgage company NMLS 222883, licensed Tennessee mortgage lender NMLS 222883, and Georgia Residential Mortgage Licensee NMLS 222883. The main office is located at 10710 State Road 54, Ste. C101, Trinity, FL 34655. All loan approvals are credit driven, and all decisions are based on underwriting credit approvals. All rates, terms, and programs are subject to change without notice. Borrowers should consider their options carefully when choosing a loan program.
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