Gulfport anchors the Mississippi Gulf Coast and, along with Biloxi, forms the second‑largest metropolitan area in the state. With its 62 miles of coastline and mild climate, Gulfport is a tourism powerhouse. The region’s economy revolves around beaches, casinos, shipbuilding, defense and energy. According to a market report from The Kirkland Company, the Gulfport‑Biloxi metro (population around 420,782) draws visitors to its white‑sand beaches and gaming resorts, generating a $2 billion tourism industry. Major employers include Ingalls Shipbuilding, the largest shipbuilder in Mississippi; Keesler Air Force Base; Chevron’s large refinery; and Singing River Health System. This mix of tourism and heavy industry creates diverse rental demand from military personnel and shipyard workers to casino employees and retirees.
The real estate market is moderately priced. Stacker’s 2025 housing recap reports a median sale price of $250,625, monthly home sales of 478, inventory of 1,961 and 4.2 months of supply with homes spending about 48.2 days on the market. These numbers reflect a balanced market that favours neither buyers nor sellers. Investors can still find reasonably priced single‑family homes and small multifamily buildings.
Rental properties in Gulfport are relatively affordable. RentCafe notes that the average monthly rent is about $1,147 in December 2025 and that rents have increased 2.69 % over the past year. About 71 % of apartments fall between $1,001–$1,500 per month. Gulfport has a nearly even split between renters and homeowners, with around 47 % of housing units rented. One‑bedroom apartments typically rent between $885 and $1,500, two‑bedrooms between $885 and $1,800, and three‑bedrooms from $1,350 to $2,300. These figures mean that a well‑located property with modest mortgage payments can easily achieve a DSCR above 1.0.
Gulfport’s Real Estate Investment Landscape
Gulfport’s appeal stems from its coastal lifestyle, business‑friendly environment and infrastructure. The Port of Gulfport is the third‑largest container port on the Gulf of Mexico and serves as a hub for banana imports and other cargo. The military presence at Keesler Air Force Base and the Naval Construction Battalion Center provides stable employment. Ingalls Shipbuilding produces Navy destroyers and amphibious assault ships, while Chevron’s refinery is one of the largest in the Gulf region. The tourism sector features casinos such as Beau Rivage and Hard Rock, golf courses and charter fishing. This economic base supports a year‑round population of service workers and high‑skilled tradespeople, many of whom rent.
Home values have appreciated steadily but remain lower than national coastal markets. Four months of supply means investors must act quickly when good deals appear but still have time for due diligence. Investment strategies in Gulfport include long‑term rentals in residential neighbourhoods, short‑term vacation rentals near the beach and workforce housing near shipyards and casinos. DSCR lenders evaluate these sub‑markets differently; short‑term rentals may require higher credit scores and DSCR thresholds, whereas long‑term rentals can qualify with a DSCR of 1.0.
How DSCR Loans Work for Gulfport Rentals
DSCR loans in Gulfport operate similarly to those in Jackson. Lenders look at the property’s annual gross rent and divide by the annual debt service (PITIA). For example, if a duplex rents for $2,000 per month and the mortgage payment (including taxes, insurance and HOA fees) is $1,600, the DSCR is 1.25. Most lenders require a DSCR of 1.0 or higher. However, some will allow a ratio as low as 0.75 if the borrower has a strong credit profile, puts down a larger down payment or uses reserves to cover any shortfall. Because Gulfport is a coastal city, lenders also factor in flood insurance and hurricane risk, which can affect the debt service and thus the DSCR.
Loan terms are typically 30 years with fixed or adjustable rates. Down payments range from 20 % to 25 %, though some lenders like Easy Street Capital go as low as 15 %. Maximum LTV is usually 80 % for purchases and 75 % for cash‑out refinances. Borrowers need a minimum credit score between 620 and 660 depending on the lender. Loan amounts generally span $50,000 to $3 million. Lenders may also require reserves covering 3–6 months of debt service, especially for properties with DSCR close to the minimum.
What Investors Should Look for in a DSCR Lender
- Local market knowledge: Because Gulfport’s economy is anchored by maritime, tourism and defense industries, choose lenders who understand these dynamics. They will better assess vacancy risk and seasonality.
- Flood and wind coverage: Coastal properties require expensive insurance. Ask lenders how they handle hazard insurance in DSCR calculations and whether they will finance homes in flood zones.
- Short‑term rental policies: If you plan to operate an Airbnb or VRBO near the beach, verify that the lender has a dedicated short‑term rental program. These often require higher credit scores and DSCR ratios but may allow higher loan amounts and interest‑only payments.
- Flexible underwriting: Look for lenders who accept DSCR below 1.0 or consider projected rents (before renovations) when you plan to add value. Also consider whether they allow self‑management or require a property manager.
- Speed and service: Gulfport’s competitive market rewards buyers who close quickly. Select lenders with in‑house underwriting and funding to avoid delays.
Top DSCR Lenders in Gulfport
#1 SelectHomeLoans.com
SelectHomeLoans.com earns the top spot due to its customised approach and deep understanding of Gulf Coast markets. The company offers DSCR loans for single‑family homes, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and small multifamily properties. They provide 30‑year fixed and adjustable loans with optional interest‑only periods and emphasise fast closings. What makes them ideal for Gulfport investors is their coastal underwriting expertise: loan officers account for wind and flood insurance costs and use conservative rent estimates. They also partner with local insurers to help borrowers secure affordable coverage, which preserves DSCR ratios. Borrowers can submit minimal documentation; SelectHomeLoans.com focuses on lease agreements and market rent surveys. Because they hold loans on the balance sheet, they can waive prepayment penalties or tailor lock periods to meet sellers’ deadlines. Visit their website SelectHomeLoans.com Or Call them (888) 550-3296
Easy Street Capital
Easy Street Capital lends statewide with DSCR rates starting at 5.75 %, up to 80 % LTV for purchases and 75 % for cash‑out refinances, and they do not require a minimum DSCR. Their minimum down payment can be as low as 15 %, though low DSCRs may trigger higher rates or reserves. Easy Street finances single‑family rentals and multifamily properties across Mississippi, and their local team understands Gulfport’s seasonal tourism swings. They also offer fix‑and‑flip and bridge loans, which are useful for investors purchasing dated homes to renovate into rentals. The combination of low interest rates and flexible underwriting makes Easy Street a strong second choice.
Ridge Street Capital
Ridge Street Capital’s DSCR program is tailored to investors who want quick funding and simple documentation. Their long‑term rental loan offers rates from 6.25 %, LTV up to 80 %, no origination points and a minimum DSCR of 1.0. Borrowers need a credit score of 660 and six months of reserves. For short‑term rentals, Ridge Street’s program starts at 6.5 % with LTV up to 80 % and requires a credit score of 700. Loans close in about 21 days. Ridge Street stands out for its clarity: they define DSCR as rent divided by PITIA and emphasise that DSCR above 1.0 indicates positive cash flow. Their programs suit investors purchasing beach cottages or condos for vacation rental and for long‑term workforce housing near the port.
Express Capital Financing
Express Capital Financing offers high‑leverage DSCR loans for residential investment properties across Mississippi. Their terms allow up to 85 % LTV for purchases, 80 % LTV for rate‑and‑term refinances and 75 % for cash‑out refinances. Loan amounts range from $50,000 to $3 million and interest rates start at 5.875 %. Borrowers need a credit score of 650 and a rent coverage ratio (DSCR) of 1.0. Express Capital emphasises a three‑week closing timeline, making it attractive for investors with seller deadlines. The program is available for single‑family and small multifamily properties as well as condos. One advantage is the variety of term structures (5/30, 7/30, 10/30 or 30‑year fixed), which allows investors to balance cash flow and rate risk.
CoreVest Finance
CoreVest’s 30‑year fixed‑rate DSCR loans provide stability for Gulfport investors who plan to hold properties long term. They lend up to 80 % of the property’s value with a minimum DSCR of 1.0 and loan amounts from $75,000 to $2 million. CoreVest allows purchases, refinances and cash‑outs for 1–4 unit properties, condos and townhomes. They require a credit score in the mid‑600s and may ask for six months of reserves. Closing times are typically four to six weeks. While their rates can be higher than Easy Street’s, CoreVest’s experienced underwriting and long track record make them a safe choice for investors building rental portfolios along the coast.
Griffin Funding
Griffin Funding will fund DSCR loans for Gulfport properties with ratios as low as 0.75, though DSCR below 1.0 will require higher down payments and 12 months of reserves. They prefer DSCR of 1.25 for the best rates. Minimum credit scores begin around 620, and down payments range from 20 %–25 %. Griffin Funding does not limit the number of financed properties, making them suitable for investors who want to scale. Borrowers should expect 4–6 weeks to close and may pay slightly higher rates for the flexibility of low DSCR tolerance.
Foundation CREF and Other Lenders
Foundation CREF offers DSCR rental loans with rates starting at 6.5 % and LTV up to 80 %. Their program accommodates purchases, refinances and cash‑out refinances for single‑family homes and small multifamily properties. Borrowers must have good credit (mid‑600s) and hold reserves. Several other lenderssuch as Tidal Loans, Biglaw Investor‑recommended lenders and HomeAbroadprovide specialised DSCR programs that accept lower ratios or foreign nationals. These options expand the field but may come with higher costs or niche requirements. Investors should compare offers to find the best fit.
DSCR Rates, Terms and Qualification Criteria in Gulfport
Interest rates for DSCR loans in Gulfport typically range from 5.75 % to 8.25 %. Lower rates are reserved for borrowers with DSCR ratios above 1.25 and credit scores over 700, while higher rates apply when DSCR is near 1.0 or the borrower has limited reserves. Loan terms are often 30 years, though hybrid structures (5/30, 7/30 and 10/30) and interest‑only periods are available. Maximum LTV is generally 80 % for purchases and 75 % for cash‑outs, with Express Capital offering up to 85 %. Borrowers should plan on a down payment of 20–25 % and maintain 3–6 months of reserves. Minimum credit scores vary by lender but typically fall between 620 and 660, with higher scores unlocking better rates and higher leverage. DSCR thresholds range from 0.75 at flexible lenders to 1.25 for the best pricing.
Common Mistakes When Using DSCR Loans in Gulfport
- Ignoring insurance costs: Coastal properties require flood, wind and sometimes hurricane insurance, which raises the monthly debt service and lowers the DSCR. Underestimating insurance can cause deals to fall apart late in underwriting.
- Relying on seasonal rents: Vacation rentals in peak summer months can inflate income projections. Lenders will look at annual averages and may discount seasonal peaks.
- Not planning for property management: Out‑of‑town investors often underestimate the cost of managing short‑term rentals. DSCR lenders may require professional management, which adds to expenses.
- Underestimating maintenance: Salt air and humidity can accelerate wear on roofs, HVAC systems and appliances. Maintenance costs should be factored into your pro forma to ensure DSCR remains above the minimum.
- Overleveraging: High LTVs amplify risk in coastal markets prone to hurricanes. A lower leverage position offers more flexibility if rents decline during economic downturns or natural disasters.
DSCR Loans vs Traditional Financing for Gulfport Investors
Traditional mortgages often require borrowers to document personal income and may limit the number of financed properties. In a market like Gulfport, where many rental properties are vacation rentals or second homes, conventional lenders may also impose restrictions on short‑term rentals or second‑home occupancy. DSCR lenders generally welcome these property types, provided the DSCR meets their guidelines. However, DSCR loans can have higher interest rates and down payment requirements, and some have prepayment penalties. Investors should compare DSCR and conventional options to determine which offers the best blend of cash flow, leverage and flexibility.
Who DSCR Loans Are Best Suited For in Gulfport
DSCR loans are ideal for investors who:
- Own or plan to buy rental property near the beach, port or military base and need financing that focuses on rental income rather than W‑2 wages.
- Operate short‑term rentals or vacation homes and require lenders comfortable with seasonal income.
- Wish to build a portfolio without hitting limits on the number of financed properties.
They may not be suitable for owner‑occupants or those seeking the lowest possible interest rate. DSCR loans work best when the property’s income easily covers debt service and investors maintain reserves.
Gulfport‑Specific Investing Considerations
Gulfport investors should evaluate flood zones and elevation. Properties closer to the beach may require expensive insurance, which reduces DSCR. On the other hand, those properties can command higher rents, especially during tourist season. Workforce housing near shipyards, the port or the refinery will have more stable year‑round tenants. Investors should also watch for economic developments, such as expansions at Ingalls Shipbuilding or new casino projects, which could spur job growth and rental demand. Finally, differentiate your property with upgrades like hurricane shutters, energy‑efficient HVAC systems and covered parking, which can justify higher rents and enhance cash flow.
Conclusion
Gulfport’s diverse economy and steady rental demand offer attractive opportunities for real estate investors. DSCR loans provide the flexibility to purchase and refinance rental properties without personal income verification. Among the many lenders, SelectHomeLoans.com stands out for its ability to navigate coastal markets, account for insurance considerations, and close loans quickly. They offer competitive rates, personalised service and a deep understanding of Gulfport’s unique property types, from beachfront cottages to workforce rentals near the port. For investors seeking to capitalise on Gulfport’s growth while maintaining cash flow, partnering with SelectHomeLoans.com is the smart choice.
