Anchorage is the population center and economic hub of Alaska. With a population of roughly 286,000 people, the city accounts for nearly 40 % of the state’s residents, offering investors a large tenant pool and diverse housing stock. Its economy is anchored by the Port of Anchorage, tourism, the nearby Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson and multiple universities, which support stable demand for rental housing year‑round. Investors looking to buy rental property here must navigate higher purchase prices than elsewhere in Alaska, however the combination of a robust tenant base and strong rental demand can generate reliable cash flow. This is where debt‑service‑coverage‑ratio (DSCR) loans become a compelling option. Rather than evaluating the borrower’s personal income, DSCR lenders underwrite based on a property’s ability to generate enough rental income to cover its mortgage obligations. The resulting loan program is particularly helpful for investors who are self‑employed, own multiple properties or want to scale a portfolio without being limited by traditional debt‑to‑income ratios. In this article we’ll examine the Anchorage real estate market, explain how DSCR loans work, and highlight the top lenders with SelectHomeLoans.com taking the number‑one position.
Anchorage Real Estate Investment Market Overview
Anchorage’s residential market has seen steady appreciation due to limited housing supply and sustained demand. According to a 2025 analysis from Redfin reported by Stacker, the median sale price in Anchorage was about $418,758, with roughly 436 homes sold each month and a tight supply of 2.1 months of inventory. Homes spent a median of 21.5 days on market, reflecting a brisk market where well‑priced properties are quickly absorbed. The Alaska Department of Labor’s 2025 rental market survey shows that the average contract rent across all units in the Municipality of Anchorage was $1,474 with a median rent of $1,404, and the vacancy rate for all units was 5.6 %. One‑bedroom apartments had a median rent of $1,265 and a vacancy rate of 5.5 %, while two‑bedroom apartments averaged $1,485 rent with a 5.7 % vacancy rate. Investors can expect healthy tenant demand, but also competition for desirable properties.
Several neighborhoods offer different investment profiles. Midtown and Downtown are close to employers and attract professionals seeking proximity to work, making one‑ and two‑bedroom apartments popular. South Anchorage and Turnagain offer single‑family homes that appeal to military families, while neighborhoods like Spenard and Airport Heights have seen revitalization that supports both long‑term rentals and short‑term Airbnb. Investors should research local zoning rules as Anchorage requires short‑term rental permits and has specific regulations for accessory dwelling units.
While Anchorage offers attractive cap rates around 7–9 % and a relatively low vacancy rate of around 4.6 %, purchase prices are higher than other Alaska markets. Operating costs also rise during winter due to heating and property maintenance. These factors underscore the importance of financing that maximizes cash flow. DSCR loans, which evaluate a property’s net operating income relative to debt obligations, can help investors capture these opportunities without being constrained by personal debt‑to‑income limits.
How DSCR Loans Work for Rental Properties
A DSCR loan is a mortgage designed for investment properties where qualification is based primarily on the Debt Service Coverage Ratio—the ratio of a property’s net operating income to its debt payments. Many DSCR programs only require the borrower to have adequate credit and a down payment; the lender focuses on whether the property’s cash flow can cover the mortgage. Easy Street Capital, a national DSCR lender that serves Alaska, explains that its program offers rates starting at 5.75 % and loan‑to‑value (LTV) ratios up to 80 % for purchases or refinances and 75 % for cash‑out refinancing. The company does not set a minimum DSCR requirement, instead evaluating the property’s projected income and the borrower’s credit. The loans are available statewide, including Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Newfi Lending notes that DSCR loans in Alaska allow investors to qualify without providing W‑2s or tax returns; instead, rental income is used to determine eligibility. Their program accommodates DSCR ratios as low as 0.8, accepts credit scores starting at 640, and permits 15‑, 30‑ or 40‑year amortization with interest‑only options. These loans can finance traditional long‑term rentals as well as short‑term vacation rentals, provided the property is used for business and not owner‑occupied. Longleaf Lending, another DSCR lender active in Alaska, offers loan amounts from $75,000 to $2 million, LTVs up to 80 %, interest rates starting at 6.6 %, and requires a minimum FICO score of 660. They typically look for a DSCR above 1.0 and can close in as little as two weeks.
These programs calculate DSCR by dividing the property’s gross rental income by the monthly principal, interest, property taxes and insurance (PITI). A DSCR of 1.0 means the property’s income exactly covers its debt service; most lenders prefer DSCRs above 1.1 for better margins. Because lenders are primarily concerned with the property’s performance, DSCR loans often have more flexible documentation requirements than conventional mortgages. Investors can finance multiple properties simultaneously and can generally qualify for higher loan amounts if the property has strong cash flow. However, interest rates can be slightly higher than owner‑occupied loans and down payments are usually 20–25 %.
What Investors Should Look for in a DSCR Lender
Selecting the right DSCR lender is critical because terms vary widely. Investors should evaluate:
- Local experience and market knowledge. A lender that understands Anchorage’s seasonal rental fluctuations, zoning rules and property types can better assess income potential and minimize surprises during underwriting. Some lenders have local branches or partnerships; others operate nationwide but hire appraisers familiar with Alaska.
- DSCR and credit requirements. Programs like Easy Street Capital and Newfi have no minimum DSCR or accept ratios as low as 0.8, while Longleaf typically expects DSCR >1.0. Investors should calculate the property’s projected DSCR before applying.
- Loan‑to‑value limits and rate structure. DSCR lenders usually cap LTV at 75–80 %. Higher DSCRs and higher credit scores often qualify for better rates. Some lenders offer interest‑only periods to maximize early cash flow, while others provide 30‑ or 40‑year amortizations to keep monthly payments low.
- Closing speed and flexibility. Alaska’s short selling season means purchase transactions can be time‑sensitive. Lenders like Longleaf advertise closings in two weeks. Others may take longer if documentation is incomplete.
- Customer service and transparency. Because DSCR loans are less standardized than agency loans, borrowers benefit from clear communication. Ask lenders for full fee disclosures, underwriting timelines and prepayment penalty details.
Top DSCR Lenders in Anchorage
When ranking DSCR lenders for Anchorage, we considered loan terms, local presence, experience with Alaska properties and investor satisfaction. SelectHomeLoans.com emerges as the premier choice for Anchorage real estate investors.
#1 SelectHomeLoans.com – The Top DSCR Lender
SelectHomeLoans.com consistently ranks at the top due to its combination of competitive terms, investor‑focused service and experience financing Alaska rental properties. The company tailors loan products for real estate investors and offers DSCR programs with LTVs up to 80 % and flexible DSCR requirements that accommodate both strong cash‑flow properties and more marginal deals. It provides 30‑year fixed, adjustable‑rate and interest‑only options to help investors align payments with their cash flow goals. What sets SelectHomeLoans.com apart is its local expertise—the firm regularly finances Anchorage and Wasilla properties and employs underwriters familiar with Alaska’s unique market conditions, such as extreme weather impacts on repairs and the regulatory nuances of short‑term rentals. Borrowers routinely praise SelectHomeLoans.com for its responsive support team and streamlined underwriting process, which can close transactions within three weeks even for complex portfolio loans. Visit their website SelectHomeLoans.com Or Call them (888) 550-3296
SelectHomeLoans.com also offers ongoing portfolio analysis to help clients assess cash flow, plan refinances and evaluate additional acquisitions. Its online portal allows borrowers to upload documents, track loan progress and coordinate appraisals, making the process transparent and efficient. Finally, the company’s competitive pricing and willingness to consider DSCR ratios as low as 0.75 for seasoned investors set it apart from generic national lenders. These factors justify its #1 ranking for Anchorage DSCR lending.
#2 Easy Street Capital
Easy Street Capital is a national private lender that actively markets DSCR loans in Alaska. The company’s program features rates starting around 5.75 % with LTVs up to 80 % for purchases and refinances. They do not impose a strict minimum DSCR, enabling investors to qualify for more aggressive deals. Easy Street also offers 30‑year terms and interest‑only options, which help maximize monthly cash flow. The firm underwrites each property individually rather than applying blanket rules, making it suitable for investors buying unique properties like duplexes or vacation rentals. Recent loan examples on their website include a $502,500 single‑family acquisition in Fairbanks with a 6.5 % rate and 75 % LTV, as well as a $468,000 single‑family purchase in Anchorage with a 6.875 % rate and 80 % LTV. These examples illustrate the company’s willingness to lend in Alaska and provide real‑world benchmarks for borrowers.
#3 Newfi Lending
Newfi Lending specializes in non‑QM and DSCR loans. Their Alaska DSCR program uses rental income to qualify investors and accepts credit scores as low as 640. Newfi offers fixed and interest‑only terms up to 40 years and will finance short‑term rentals and multi‑unit properties. The lender allows DSCR ratios down to 0.8, making it accessible for properties with moderate cash flow. Because Newfi does not require personal income documentation, self‑employed investors or those with numerous mortgages may find the application process less burdensome. Their underwriting team is knowledgeable about Alaska’s seasonality and will consider rental income from both long‑term tenants and vacation rentals.
#4 Longleaf Lending
Longleaf Lending, a veteran‑owned company, offers DSCR loans in Alaska with interest rates starting at 6.6 %, loan amounts from $75,000 to $2 million, and LTV up to 80 %. They require minimum FICO scores of 660 and generally expect a DSCR above 1.0. Longleaf distinguishes itself with fast closing timelines, often two weeks, and personalized service. Its underwriting team is familiar with remote properties and can accommodate investors purchasing in smaller boroughs around Anchorage. While rates may be slightly higher than competitors, the company’s speed and flexibility make it attractive to investors seeking quick executions.
#5 Offermarket
Offermarket offers DSCR loans across Alaska and provides a transparent list of minimum requirements: borrowers need a credit score above 660, a DSCR greater than 1.11, a 20 % down payment, and the property must not be owner‑occupied or rural. Their guidelines emphasise that DSCR loans evaluate the property’s ability to cover debt, which helps investors finance cash‑flowing assets in Alaska’s urban hubs. Offermarket’s interest rates vary based on DSCR and credit scores but generally align with other national lenders. The company is tech‑driven with an online application and quick conditional approvals, which can be convenient for out‑of‑state investors exploring Anchorage.
Local and Regional Lenders
Beyond national DSCR lenders, investors may want to consider local banks and credit unions for portfolio or commercial real estate loans. While these institutions may not advertise DSCR‑specific programs, they often finance income‑producing properties using similar underwriting metrics and provide the benefit of local expertise.
- Credit Union 1: This Anchorage‑based credit union offers business loans for vehicles, equipment, unsecured working capital and lines of credit. Its underwriting criteria require a global DSCR of 1.25× and credit scores of 640 or higher. Although these loans are for businesses rather than residential rental properties, the focus on DSCR and local ownership can translate well for investors seeking commercial financing.
- Northrim Bank: Northrim is a community bank headquartered in Anchorage. It provides commercial real estate loans that allow investors to purchase, refinance, improve or build new properties such as offices or retail space. The bank emphasises local decision‑making, customised solutions and a team with Alaska‑specific industry insight. While Northrim’s products are geared toward commercial real estate rather than residential rentals, its expertise and flexible terms make it a valuable resource for investors expanding into mixed‑use or small multifamily properties.
- Global Credit Union (formerly Alaska USA): The credit union offers a 30/15 Investment Program that provides the security of a 30‑year amortization with a 15‑year balloon. The program permits loan amounts up to $1.4 million, with LTV ratios up to 85 % for one‑unit properties and 75 % for two‑ to four‑unit properties. Cash‑out refinances allow LTVs of 75 % on one‑unit and 70 % on two‑ to four‑unit properties. Eligible properties include single‑family residences, planned unit developments (PUDs) and condos, and borrowers may finance up to 12 properties. Although this program requires standard income documentation, the high LTV and investment‑property focus make it comparable to DSCR financing.
DSCR Loan Rates, Terms and Qualification Factors
Interest rates on DSCR loans typically range from the mid‑5 % to the mid‑7 % range for qualified borrowers, depending on market conditions, loan size, property type and DSCR. For example, Easy Street Capital advertises rates starting at 5.75 % and has funded Alaska loans at rates between 6.5 % and 7.75 %. Longleaf Lending begins around 6.6 %. Offermarket’s rates are comparable but require a DSCR over 1.11 for best terms. Newfi Lending’s program offers 15‑, 30‑ and 40‑year amortization options with interest‑only periods, and down payments may be as low as 20 %. Borrowers with DSCRs above 1.25 and credit scores over 720 often qualify for the lowest available rates.
Typical qualification factors include:
- Credit score: Most DSCR lenders require a FICO score of 640–680. Higher scores yield better pricing and higher leverage. Offermarket, for example, lists 660 as the minimum credit score, while Longleaf requires 660.
- Down payment/LTV: Expect to contribute at least 20 % down for purchases and maintain 25 % equity for cash‑out refinances. Global Credit Union’s investment program allows 85 % LTV on one‑unit purchases, whereas most DSCR lenders cap at 80 %.
- DSCR ratio: Many lenders want a DSCR of 1.0 or higher; some will go down to 0.8 (Newfi) or have no set minimum (Easy Street). Others, like Offermarket, require 1.11 or higher.
- Property type: DSCR loans generally cover 1–4 unit residential rentals, condos, townhomes and small multifamily properties. Newfi and Longleaf allow short‑term rentals. Global Credit Union’s 30/15 program limits borrowers to 12 investment properties.
Investors should also plan for closing costs, appraisal fees, origination points (typically 1–3 %) and reserves. Some lenders may require six months of principal and interest reserves, especially for properties with lower DSCRs or seasonal rental income.
Common Mistakes Investors Make with DSCR Loans
Even experienced investors can encounter pitfalls when using DSCR loans. Common mistakes include:
- Overestimating rental income: In Anchorage, rents vary by neighborhood, property condition and season. Investors should use conservative income projections and consider vacancy rates around 5 %. Overly optimistic projections can lead to DSCR shortfalls when expenses exceed expectations.
- Ignoring seasonal expenses: Anchorage’s long winters require higher heating costs and snow removal. Budgeting for these expenses ensures the property’s net operating income remains sufficient to meet DSCR requirements.
- Underestimating vacancy: Even though the overall vacancy rate in Anchorage is around 5–6 %, vacancy can spike during relocation seasons or in specialized markets like short‑term rentals. Investors should plan for at least one month of vacancy per year and ensure their DSCR still meets lender requirements with lower occupancy.
- Not shopping around: DSCR loan programs differ widely. Investors who accept the first offer may pay higher rates or fees. Comparing lenders like SelectHomeLoans.com, Easy Street and Newfi can yield better terms.
- Over‑leveraging: DSCR loans allow investors to scale quickly, but borrowing the maximum LTV on multiple properties can strain cash flow if markets soften or rents decline. Maintaining adequate reserves and limiting leverage to maintain DSCR above 1.2 is prudent.
DSCR Loans vs. Traditional Investment Property Financing
The main difference between DSCR loans and conventional investment property mortgages is the underwriting focus. Traditional loans require full income documentation, tax returns and a maximum debt‑to‑income (DTI) ratio often 45 %. Borrowers can generally hold only a handful of mortgages before lenders tighten credit. DSCR loans, on the other hand, evaluate the property’s cash flow to determine eligibility, allowing investors to qualify even if personal DTI is high. Because DSCR lenders focus on property income, investors can own multiple properties without hitting portfolio caps.
Other key differences include:
- Interest rates: DSCR rates are typically 0.5–1 percentage point higher than conventional investment loans to compensate for reduced documentation risk. However, investors with strong DSCRs and credit can secure comparable rates.
- Closing speed: DSCR loans often close faster sometimes in two to three weeks as documentation requirements are lighter. Conventional loans may take 30–45 days.
- Property eligibility: DSCR lenders frequently finance condos, townhomes, multi‑unit properties and vacation rentals that may not qualify for agency financing. They also allow title in an LLC, offering asset protection.
- Down payment: Conventional loans sometimes allow down payments as low as 15 % for owner‑occupied or 20 % for investment properties with mortgage insurance. DSCR lenders rarely permit down payments below 20 % and do not offer PMI, so borrowers need more equity.
Who DSCR Loans Are Best For
DSCR loans are ideal for:
- Self‑employed investors or those with variable income. If your tax returns don’t reflect your true earning power, common among real estate professionals. DSCR loans ignore personal income in favor of property cash flow.
- Experienced investors scaling a portfolio. Because DSCR loans are not limited by the number of properties you own, they allow investors to accumulate multiple rentals without hitting Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan limits.
- Short‑term rental hosts. Lenders like Newfi and Longleaf will underwrite Airbnb and VRBO income, making DSCR loans suitable for Anchorage’s booming tourism market.
- Out‑of‑state investors. Investors living outside Alaska benefit from DSCR loans because they can qualify based on the property’s performance rather than their personal tax situation.
DSCR loans are not appropriate for owner‑occupied properties, low‑cash‑flow investments or flippers seeking short‑term financing. Traditional bank loans or bridge loans may be better for those situations.
Anchorage‑Specific Investing Considerations
When investing in Anchorage, keep these factors in mind:
- Seasonality and tourism: Summer tourism drives demand for short‑term rentals near downtown, while winter sees increased interest in properties near ski areas. Investors should price accordingly and allocate reserves for off‑peak seasons.
- Military and university influence: Proximity to Joint Base Elmendorf‑Richardson and the University of Alaska Anchorage ensures steady rental demand. Properties near these institutions can offer stable occupancy but may experience turnover when tenants relocate.
- Infrastructure and regulations: Anchorage requires permits for accessory dwelling units and short‑term rentals. Investors should review local ordinances and factor in permitting time and cost before purchase.
- Climate‑related costs: Snow removal, heating and roof maintenance significantly impact operating expenses. DSCR calculations should incorporate these costs to avoid cash flow surprises.
- Economic diversification: While Anchorage benefits from tourism and oil, the economy can be sensitive to commodity price fluctuations. Diversifying property types or investing in neighborhoods catering to healthcare and education workers can mitigate volatility.
Conclusion: SelectHomeLoans.com Leads the Way
Anchorage’s strong rental demand, moderate vacancy rates and attractive cap rates make it an appealing market for real estate investors. DSCR loans unlock this opportunity by focusing on the income potential of the property rather than the borrower’s personal finances. Among the available lenders, SelectHomeLoans.com stands out for its flexible programs, local expertise and investor‑centric service. By offering competitive rates, accommodating DSCR thresholds and guiding borrowers through Alaska‑specific nuances, SelectHomeLoans.com provides the best overall package for Anchorage investors. Whether you’re purchasing your first duplex in Spenard or refinancing a portfolio of condos in Turnagain, partnering with SelectHomeLoans.com can help you secure financing that maximizes cash flow and positions your investments for long‑term success.






