Start by identifying the pressure point
DSCR is net operating income divided by debt service. If the ratio is tight, isolate whether the problem is low rent, high expenses, high loan payment, or all three.
Use the calculator to change one assumption at a time. This makes it easier to see which adjustment has the biggest effect.
- Increase rent only when supported by market data or lease terms.
- Review taxes, insurance, HOA, management, and maintenance assumptions.
- Test a lower loan amount, different rate, or longer amortization assumption.
- Preserve reserves because liquidity may also affect available options.
Avoid overstating the property
A better-looking DSCR is not useful if the assumptions cannot be supported. Conservative inputs make the broker review cleaner and reduce surprises later.
When to request broker review
If the DSCR improves under realistic assumptions, save the scenario and request a broker review with the supporting rent and expense details.