Bank statement loans: More mortgage options for self-employed buyers and homeowners as rates ease

"If you're self-employed, paid on commission, or run a business, you already know the frustration: you can have strong cash flow, great credit, and real assetsyet a traditional mortgage can still feel like a square peg in a round hole. That's exactly why bank statement loans exist. They're designed for borrowers whose real income is easier to see in deposits and cash flow than in W-2s or perfect tax returns. Instead of relying only on pay stubs and W-2s, these programs use recent bank statements."

"And timing matters: mortgage rates have been hovering near 2025 lows. Freddie Mac's weekly survey put the average 30-year fixed at 6.22% (Dec 11, 2025), down from 6.60% a year earliera meaningful shift for both purchase and refinance conversations. Freddie Mac+1 Why this matters right now Homeownership affordability is still tight nationwide. Prices remain elevated, and everyday ownership costs (taxes, insurance, HOA) can stretch monthly budgets. When rates dipeven modestlyyour buying power and refinance options can change quickly."

Bank statement loans allow borrowers to qualify using 12–24 months of bank deposits and documented cash flow rather than relying solely on W-2s, pay stubs, or tax returns. These loans commonly serve self-employed borrowers, business owners, 1099 earners, and commission-based professionals whose taxable income may be reduced by legitimate business write-offs. The product is typically offered in the Non-QM space but can be a responsible option when documented correctly. Recent 30-year fixed rates near 6.22% improve purchase and refinance opportunities. Affordability remains tight, so modest rate changes can materially affect buying power and qualification strategy.

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