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- Matched with investor-friendly lenders
- Fast pre-approvals-no W2s required
- Financing options fro rentals, BRRRR, STRs
- Scale your portfolio with confidence
If you’re self-employed, have non-traditional income, or just don’t fit the cookie-cutter mold required by conventional lenders, you may have heard of Non-QM loans. But finding the right lender can be just as important as choosing the right loan program.
In this guide, we highlight the top Non-QM mortgage lenders for primary residences in 2025—including what they offer, who they serve best, and how to get matched with the right one for your situation.
🧠 What Is a Non-QM Mortgage?
A Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) is a home loan that doesn’t follow Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac guidelines. These loans allow more flexibility in how income is verified—often without tax returns, W-2s, or strict DTI rules.
They’re designed for:
- Self-employed borrowers
- 1099 contractors
- Business owners
- Gig economy workers
- Retirees with assets
- Those with recent credit events (e.g. bankruptcy)
👉 Start with our What Is a Non-QM Loan? guide to understand the basics.
🏆 Top Non-QM Lenders for Primary Residences in 2025
1. Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions
Best for: Bank statement loans and self-employed borrowers
- Offers 12- and 24-month bank statement programs
- Loan amounts up to $3M
- Allows interest-only and asset depletion options
- No tax returns or W-2s required
🔗 Pair with our Bank Statement Loan Guide
2. Acra Lending (formerly Citadel Servicing)
Best for: P&L-only and credit event borrowers
- Accepts P&L statements as sole income verification
- Programs for recent bankruptcies or foreclosures
- Up to 90% LTV on some owner-occupied loans
- Flexible documentation for self-employed borrowers
3. NewFi Lending
Best for: Jumbo Non-QM loans and hybrid earners
- Non-QM jumbo loans for high-income buyers
- Accepts mixed documentation (bank statements + 1099s)
- No prepayment penalties on owner-occupied homes
- Available in most states
4. Carrington Mortgage Services
Best for: Lower credit scores and manual underwriting
- Down to 620 credit score on Non-QM loans
- Manual underwriting available for complex files
- Accepts VOE (verification of employment) and asset-based income
- Offers both purchase and refinance options
5. LendSure Mortgage
Best for: Unique income structures and fast closings
- Specializes in self-employed borrowers with irregular income
- 24-hour income review process
- Bank statement, asset depletion, and foreign national programs
- Allows up to 50% DTI in some scenarios
📋 How to Choose the Right Non-QM Lender
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Income Type | Bank statement, asset-based, P&L, 1099 |
| Loan Purpose | Purchase or refinance (rate/term or cash-out) |
| LTV Limits | Look for lenders allowing 80–90% for primary homes |
| Loan Amounts | Check if they support jumbo or conforming limits |
| Underwriting Speed | Some lenders approve in days, others take weeks |
| Prepayment Penalties | Ensure no penalties on owner-occupied homes |
Get Expert Financing
- Matched with investor-friendly lenders
- Fast pre-approvals-no W2s required
- Financing options fro rentals, BRRRR, STRs
- Scale your portfolio with confidence
💡 Tips for Working with a Non-QM Lender
- Organize your documentation: Gather your bank statements, P&L reports, or asset summaries in advance.
- Know your numbers: Use our Loan Comparison Calculator to estimate your payment.
- Work with a Non-QM specialist: Not all brokers or banks understand how to structure these loans.
- Compare 2–3 offers: Rates, fees, and qualification terms can vary significantly.
- Ask about prepayment terms: Avoid surprises later if you plan to refinance again.
🧾 FAQs
Can I get a Non-QM loan for my primary residence?
Yes! Many of the best Non-QM lenders offer loan programs for owner-occupied homes, not just investment properties.
Are interest rates higher with Non-QM lenders?
Slightly, yes. Rates are usually 1–2% higher than conventional—but you get far more flexibility and access.
Do Non-QM lenders charge higher fees?
Fees can vary, but working with the right lender can minimize costs and offer competitive terms.
🔗 Related Resources
- Bank Statement Loans for Homebuyers
- Cash-Out Refinance Options
- Low Doc Mortgage Options
- Affordability Calculator
📣 Final Thoughts
Not every borrower fits the traditional mortgage mold—and that’s where Non-QM lenders step up. With options for bank statement loans, jumbo financing, asset depletion, and more, today’s best Non-QM mortgage lenders make homeownership possible for millions of non-traditional earners.
Our advice is based on experience in the mortgage industry and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goal of owning a home. We may receive compensation from partner banks when you view mortgage rates listed on our website.
